Wendy Marie Galloway – Physiotherapist | Hamilton, ON

Wendy Marie Galloway is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at St. Joseph's Hospital - Hamilton in Hamilton, ON, Wendy is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Wendy 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 serves adults.

Wendy Marie Galloway completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Western University (Graduating Class of 2005). With extensive clinical experience, Wendy is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Wendy has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Wendy maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Wendy employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Wendy Galloway offers consultations in English.

Wendy Marie Galloway provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.

Sports Injury

• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Damage to ligaments that can range from mild (Grade 1 - overstretched) to moderate (Grade 2 - partial tear) to severe (Grade 3 - complete tear), impacting joint integrity and function.
• Muscle Strains (e.g., Hamstring, Calf, Groin, Quadriceps, Rotator Cuff): Damage to muscle tissue that can range from minor micro-tears to more significant partial or complete tears, impacting strength, power, and range of motion.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Pain felt around, under, or behind the kneecap (patella), often described as a dull ache that is aggravated by activities like running, jumping, squatting, using stairs (especially going down), or prolonged sitting with the knee bent.

Common Musculoskeletal

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.

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 can assess your needs.

• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Wendy, 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 St. Joseph's Hospital - Hamilton, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Wendy frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Wendy can help you move beyond soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise. The focus is on moving more freely and with greater agility than they have in years, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up.
• Don't let swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment dictate what you can and cannot do. Wendy offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at regaining full function in an injured area, enabling a return to cherished activities, helping you reclaim reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain and enjoy a more functional life.
• The path to recovery from my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night and achieving feeling more like their 'old self' before their injury or condition began for getting on and off the floor with ease often starts with expert guidance. Wendy, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity? Wendy works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.

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

Wendy practices at St. Joseph's Hospital - Hamilton, located in the Corktown, Stinson neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Westmount Recreation Centre and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by your Physiotherapist as part of your overall physiotherapy plan. These techniques are designed to assess and treat your joints, muscles, and nerves to decrease pain and improve your mobility and function. Examples include specific joint mobilizations to improve movement, soft tissue release techniques to address muscle tightness or scar tissue, and sometimes manipulations (adjustments) if indicated and appropriate for your condition and your therapist's qualifications.

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

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card, if applicable for any publicly funded programs or simply for identification), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), and a list of your current medications. Also, if you plan to use private health insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Finally, wear or bring comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Essentially, physiotherapy helps you get moving 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 work with you. They'll use their expertise in body mechanics, rehabilitation, and pain management to 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.

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. This is known as direct access. However, some private health insurance plans may require a referral for coverage. It's crucial to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

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

OHIP generally does not cover physiotherapy services in private clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in certain situations, such as after hospitalization for specific conditions or through community clinics, but eligibility is limited. Check your private insurance coverage, as many plans offer significant reimbursement for physiotherapy services.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, Wendy will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and goals. A physical assessment will follow to identify the cause of your problem. Wendy will then explain her findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a personalized plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial treatment or exercises to begin your recovery.

St. Joseph's Hospital - Hamilton
50 Charleton Ave. E.
Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6

Phone: (905) 522-1155

Wendy Marie Galloway 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: XXX81

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=3f1c3c22-8e02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

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