Wendy J O’Connor – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Wendy J O'Connor is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Avail Ergonomics in Ottawa, ON, Wendy O'Connor is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Wendy O'Connor focuses on providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Wendy O'Connor serves adults.

Wendy J O'Connor completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Dalhousie University (Graduating Class of 1979). With extensive clinical experience, Wendy O'Connor is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Wendy O'Connor has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Wendy O'Connor's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy; and a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Wendy O'Connor offers consultations in English.

Wendy J O'Connor provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).

Common Musculoskeletal

• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Discomfort experienced in the hip region, groin, outer hip, or buttock, potentially stemming from joint inflammation (bursitis), muscle strains, tendinopathy, or conservative management of labral tears.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Wendy O'Connor can assess your needs.

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: A non-invasive light therapy used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, promote faster healing, reduce pain, and modulate inflammation without generating heat.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): The application of focused acoustic waves (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) by a trained Physiotherapist to treat chronic tendon issues (e.g., plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), calcific tendinosis, and other persistent musculoskeletal conditions.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Therapeutic traction for the cervical (neck) or lumbar (low back) spine, used by physiotherapists to help reduce pain, decompress nerve roots, and improve symptoms associated with conditions like disc herniations, sciatica, or spinal stenosis.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Wendy O'Connor, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

At Avail Ergonomics, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Wendy O'Connor frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Wendy O'Connor can help you move beyond difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain. The focus is on feeling more energetic and less weighed down by physical discomfort, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing.
• Are you finding that my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night stops you from enjoying taking energetic, long walks with their dog every day? Wendy O'Connor is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve sleeping more soundly through the night due to reduced pain and discomfort through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Tired of dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women) interfering with engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours? Wendy O'Connor uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being and regain your freedom of movement.
• When that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails, physiotherapy with Wendy O'Connor can help you work towards getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.

Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Wendy O'Connor, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Wendy O'Connor's practice at Avail Ergonomics is conveniently located in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, Billings Bridge neighborhood of Ottawa, near the Rideau Canal National Historic Site. The clinic is easily accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics for most Ontarians. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility criteria are strict and waitlists may exist. Always check your private/extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Avail Ergonomics or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

Bring your health card, any doctor's referral letter (if applicable), imaging test results (X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs), a medication list, and your extended health benefits information (insurance card/policy number) for direct billing if available. Wear comfortable clothing.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy helps you move and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you're dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiotherapist will create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and practical advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active, fulfilling life.

Avail Ergonomics
2148 Beaumont Road
Ottawa, ON, K1H 5V3

Phone: (613) 864-5072

Wendy J O'Connor is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Registration Number: XXX07

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=c5ed9557-8902-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.