Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website.

# NewLifeRehab: Evidence-Based Rehab Protocols, Clear Guidelines, Real Recovery

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://rehabottawa.ca/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [Comprehensive Summary: Return to Sport Following Ankle Lateral Collateral Ligament Reconstruction](https://rehabottawa.ca/return-to-sport-following-ankle-lateral-collateral-ligament-reconstruction/): Ankle sprains are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries, accounting for 4%–7% of emergency department visits and representing about 30% of all sports injuries. Lateral ankle ligament injuries, particularly involving the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), are the most frequent, especially in sports requiring running, jumping, and pivoting such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, and martial arts. Chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI) develops in approximately 20–40% of these injuries when conservative treatment fails.
- [Comprehensive Rehabilitation Protocol Following Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) Surgery](https://rehabottawa.ca/rehabilitation-protocol-following-total-hip-arthroplasty-surgery/): Getting back to sport is an important goal for many people after a total hip replacement. The good news is that a hip replacement does not mean giving up an active lifestyle. Most people can return to some form of sport or exercise, although the type of activity and the timing of the return are important.
- [Rehabilitation Following Spine Surgery: A Comprehensive Overview](https://rehabottawa.ca/rehabilitation-following-spine-surgery/): Spine surgery is increasingly prevalent worldwide, driven by an aging population and a growing incidence of degenerative spinal conditions such as lumbar disc herniation (LDH), lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), and spondylolisthesis. The primary goals of spine surgery include decompression of neural elements and stabilization of the spinal column, with procedures ranging from discectomy, microdiscectomy, laminectomy, to more complex fusion surgeries. Despite advances in surgical techniques, a substantial proportion of patients (up to 40%) continue to experience pain, disability, and impaired function postoperatively. This highlights the critical role of postoperative rehabilitation in optimizing recovery and functional outcomes.
- [Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS): Rehabilitation and Postoperative Management](https://rehabottawa.ca/carpal-tunnel-syndrome-cts-rehabilitation-and-postoperative-management/): Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most prevalent compressive neuropathy, characterized by the entrapment of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel at the wrist. The carpal tunnel is an anatomical passage bordered dorsally by the carpal bones and volarly by the transverse carpal ligament. The median nerve, along with flexor tendons, traverses this confined space. Increased pressure within this tunnel, due to factors such as ligament thickening, repetitive wrist movements, or systemic conditions, leads to nerve ischemia, demyelination, and subsequent sensory and motor symptoms including numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the median nerve distribution.
- [ACL Rehab Protocol](https://rehabottawa.ca/acl-rehab-protocol/): The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a critical stabilizer of the knee, primarily responsible for preventing anterior translation and rotational instability of the tibia relative to the femur. Injuries to the ACL are common, especially among athletes involved in cutting, jumping, and pivoting sports. While nonoperative management is an option for some patients, surgical reconstruction remains the gold standard for those aiming to return to preinjury levels of activity and prevent further joint damage.
- [Rehabilitation Protocol Following Proximal Tibia Fracture Fixation Surgery](https://rehabottawa.ca/rehabilitation-protocol-following-proximal-tibia-fracture-fixation-surgery/): Proximal tibia fractures, including tibial plateau fractures, are complex intra-articular injuries that involve the weight-bearing surface of the knee joint. These fractures account for approximately 1% of all adult fractures and constitute a significant challenge due to their complex anatomy and the biomechanical forces acting upon the knee. Epidemiologically, these fractures occur predominantly in two populations: younger males following high-energy trauma (e.g., road traffic accidents, sports injuries) and older females with osteoporotic bone who sustain low-energy injuries such as falls.
- [Return to Sport Following Proximal Tibia Fracture Surgery](https://rehabottawa.ca/return-to-sport-following-proximal-tibia-fracture-surgery/): Rehabilitation after proximal tibia fracture surgery should be individualized, focusing on:
- [Rehabilitation Protocol Following Meniscus Repair Surgery](https://rehabottawa.ca/rehabilitation-protocol-following-meniscus-repair-surgery/): Knee bending may be temporarily restricted after meniscus repair to protect the healing tissue. The amount of bending allowed depends on the type and location of the tear and the surgical repair.
- [Postoperative Rehabilitation Protocol Following Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (RTSA)](https://rehabottawa.ca/postoperative-rehabilitation-protocol-following-reverse-total-shoulder-arthroplasty-rtsa/): Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is a surgical procedure in which the normal ball-and-socket anatomy of the shoulder is reversed, placing the ball on the glenoid and the socket on the humerus. This design allows the deltoid muscle to compensate for deficient or torn rotator cuff musculature, restoring shoulder elevation and function. RSA is commonly indicated for cuff tear arthropathy, complex fractures, or failed prior shoulder surgeries. The following is a sample of a comprehensive rehabilitation protocol following this surgery.
- [Can I Return to Sport Following Shoulder Arthroplasty?](https://rehabottawa.ca/can-i-return-to-sport-following-shoulder-arthroplasty/): Shoulder arthroplasty is increasingly performed not only to relieve pain but also to restore function and allow patients to return to an active lifestyle. As these procedures are now offered to younger and more active individuals, one of the most common questions patients ask is: “Can I return to sport after shoulder replacement?”Current evidence suggests that, for most patients, the answer is yes—although the rate of return, level of play, and timeline depend on the type of shoulder arthroplasty, the sport involved, and the individual’s rehabilitation.
- [Comprehensive Postoperative Rehabilitation Protocol Following Anatomic Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (ATSA)](https://rehabottawa.ca/comprehensive-postoperative-rehabilitation-protocol-following-anatomic-total-shoulder-arthroplasty-atsa/): Rehabilitation after ATSA aims to protect healing tissues (especially the subscapularis), restore range of motion (ROM), regain strength, and return patients to functional activities while minimizing complications. The protocol is generally divided into three phases spanning approximately the first 6 months postoperatively, with continued maintenance thereafter.
- [Comprehensive Postoperative Rehabilitation Protocol for Hip Fracture](https://rehabottawa.ca/comprehensive-postoperative-rehabilitation-protocol-for-hip-fracture/): Hip fractures are more common in older adults and occur at different rates around the world. In the United States, they are more common in women than men and are expected to increase as the population ages. Most hip fractures in people over 65 happen after a simple fall and are often related to weaker bones (fragility fractures). Although hip fracture rates have declined in some high-income countries due to improved osteoporosis management and fall prevention, rates continue to rise among the very elderly and in low- and middle-income populations.
- [Comprehensive Rehabilitation Protocol Following Total Knee Replacement (TKR)](https://rehabottawa.ca/comprehensive-rehabilitation-protocol-following-total-knee-replacement-tkr/): Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is a common surgical intervention for end-stage osteoarthritis, aimed at reducing pain and restoring function. Postoperative rehabilitation is essential to optimize outcomes including pain relief, restoration of range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, physical function, and quality of life. Rehabilitation after TKA is a complex, multifactorial intervention involving various components such as strengthening, flexibility, balance, education, and adjunctive modalities, delivered across different phases post-surgery. Despite diverse protocols, the literature suggests comparable improvements across rehabilitation programs when key elements are addressed. This synthesis integrates evidence and recommendations from six comprehensive papers to provide a clear, practical rehabilitation guideline for physiotherapy practice.
- [Why Preoperative Rehabilitation Matters Before Knee Replacement Surgery](https://rehabottawa.ca/why-preoperative-rehabilitation-matters-before-knee-replacement-surgery/): Total knee replacement (TKR) is one of the most common surgeries used to reduce pain and improve mobility in people with severe knee arthritis. While much attention is often placed on rehabilitation after surgery, growing evidence shows that what patients do before surgery can be just as important. Preoperative rehabilitation—often called prehabilitation—is designed to prepare the body and mind for surgery, leading to better recovery afterward.
- [Return to Sport Following Hip Arthroscopy](https://rehabottawa.ca/return-to-sport-following-hip-arthroscopy/): Despite the growing prevalence of hip arthroscopy for various joint conditions (read more here), there is still a lack of standardized, evidence-based return-to-play (RTP) protocols, functional testing guidelines, and rehabilitation frameworks—particularly for patients with athletic or high-level training backgrounds. The purpose of this article is to briefly review and discuss this important topic.
- [Post Hip Arthroscopy Rehabilitation Protocol: Comprehensive Phase-Based Approach](https://rehabottawa.ca/post-hip-arthroscopy-rehabilitation-protocol-comprehensive-phase-based-approach/): Hip arthroscopy has become an increasingly popular, minimally invasive surgical technique to address intra-articular hip pathologies such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), labral tears, and chondral injuries, particularly in young and athletic populations. The goal is to reduce pain and restore function, enabling athletes to return to sport safely and effectively.
- [Rehabilitation Protocol for Non-Operative Management of Proximal Humerus Fractures](https://rehabottawa.ca/rehabilitation-protocol-for-non-operative-management-of-proximal-humerus-fractures/): Proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) are among the most common fragility fractures in adults, particularly prevalent in the elderly population, with incidence increasing over recent decades due to aging demographics. Non-operative management remains the mainstay treatment for the majority of these fractures, surpassing operative interventions in frequency, especially in patients with minimally displaced or stable fractures. Despite advances in surgical techniques, evidence from randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses consistently shows no clear superiority of surgery over conservative treatment in elderly patients, with non-operative treatment associated with fewer complications and revision surgeries. Rehabilitation, therefore, becomes a critical component to optimize functional recovery, minimize pain, and restore independence in activities of daily living (ADLs). To study more about the differences between these operative and non-operative management of PHFs, read our other article, Understanding Proximal Humerus Fractures.
- [Understanding Proximal Humerus Fractures: A Comprehensive Overview for Students, Practitioners, and Patients](https://rehabottawa.ca/understanding-proximal-humerus-fractures/): Proximal humerus fractures (PHFs), injuries involving the upper portion of the arm bone near the shoulder, are a common clinical condition, especially among older adults. This article provides a clear and structured overview of PHFs, including epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic methods, classification, treatment options, rehabilitation principles, and potential complications. All information is derived from high-quality academic sources to support students, clinicians, and individuals seeking to better understand these injuries.
- [Rehabilitation Protocol Following Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery](https://rehabottawa.ca/rehabilitation-protocol-following-achilles-tendon-repair-surgery/): Achilles tendon rupture rehabilitation aims to restore tendon healing, muscle strength, ankle range of motion (ROM), and ultimately safe return to sport (RTS). Recent evidence supports early weightbearing (WB) and early ankle mobilization to improve functional outcomes without increasing rerupture risk tendon elongation occurs predominantly within the first 6 months postoperatively, but early loading protocols do not significantly increase. Progressive strengthening and neuromuscular control are essential components for long-term recovery.
- [Comprehensive Rehabilitation Protocol for Non-Operative Management of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture](https://rehabottawa.ca/comprehensive-rehabilitation-protocol-for-non-operative-management-of-acute-achilles-tendon-rupture/): Achilles tendon rupture is one of the most common lower-leg injuries and can be managed either operatively or conservatively. Not sure if surgery is the best option for an Achilles tendon rupture? Read our full article on this topic:Operative vs Non-operative Management of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture.
- [Postoperative Rehabilitation Protocol for Proximal Humerus Fractures](https://rehabottawa.ca/postoperative-rehabilitation-protocol-for-proximal-humerus-fractures/): Proximal humerus fractures (PHFs), including humeral head fractures, are common injuries, particularly in elderly populations, often resulting from low-energy trauma such as falls. Management strategies vary depending on fracture complexity, patient age, bone quality, and functional demands. While many minimally displaced fractures are treated nonoperatively, complex and displaced fractures frequently require surgical intervention, most commonly open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with locking plates, intramedullary nailing (IMN), or shoulder arthroplasty.
- [Operative vs Non-operative Management of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Comprehensive Overview](https://rehabottawa.ca/operative-vs-non-operative-management-of-acute-achilles-tendon-rupture/): Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is a common musculoskeletal injury that often affects physically active individuals, particularly males involved in sports that require sudden acceleration or jumping. The incidence of ATR has been rising globally, attributed partly to increased participation in high-demand sports and the aging population. Traditionally, treatment options for ATR include operative (surgical) repair and non-operative (conservative) management. Deciding between these methods has been a subject of significant debate due to differences in outcomes, risks, and recovery profiles.
- [Comprehensive Rehabilitation Protocol Following Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery](https://rehabottawa.ca/comprehensive-rehabilitation-protocol-following-rotator-cuff-repair-surgery/): Rotator cuff (RC) repair is a commonly performed surgical procedure aimed at restoring shoulder function and reducing pain due to tendon tears. However, postoperative rehabilitation is equally crucial to the success of the surgery, ensuring appropriate healing and functional recovery. Given the variability in tear size, tissue quality, surgical technique, patient age, activity level, and comorbidities such as diabetes or smoking status, rehabilitation protocols must be tailored to each patient. A one-size-fits-all approach is inadequate because biological healing rates and risk factors differ significantly among individuals.
- [Overcoming the Fear: Understanding and Managing Fear of Reinjury After ACL Surgery](https://rehabottawa.ca/understanding-and-managing-fear-of-reinjury-after-acl-surgery/): Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most common sports-related knee injuries, affecting thousands of people every year. While surgical reconstruction (ACLR) has advanced significantly, many patients face a hidden challenge after surgery: the fear of reinjury, known medically as kinesiophobia. This fear can hold people back from returning to their favorite sports or activities, even when their knees are physically ready.
- [The Role of Neuroplasticity](https://rehabottawa.ca/the-role-of-neuroplasticity/): After an ACL injury and surgery, patients often experience a reduction in somatosensory feedback—information from receptors in the knee about joint position and movement. To compensate, the brain increases reliance on visual feedback (using the eyes) to guide knee movements. While this compensatory strategy helps maintain function initially, it can overload the brain’s motor control systems, especially during fast, complex sports movements, increasing the risk of reinjury.
- [Return to Sport Testing Battery](https://rehabottawa.ca/return-to-sport-testing-battery/): Research shows that only about 15-17% of patients pass these comprehensive tests around 6 to 8 months after surgery, meaning most still have deficits that could put them at risk if they return to intense sports too soon. Another test battery combining strength, hop tests, and movement analysis found that less than 10% of patients met the strict return-to-sport criteria at 6 months. Psychological readiness, like confidence and fear of re-injury, is also an important part of the assessment.

## Pages
- [Motahareh Karimijashni, PhD](https://rehabottawa.ca/motahareh-karimijashni-physiotherapist/): Throughout her clinical career, Motahareh has gained more than 10 years of experience treating individuals with a wide range of musculoskeletal and orthopedic conditions in both outpatient and acute care settings. Her clinical expertise includes postoperative rehabilitation, gait and mobility assessment, manual therapy, dry needling, pain management, and functional rehabilitation. She is committed to providing individualized, evidence-based care that helps patients reduce pain, restore function, and safely return to their daily activities, work, and recreational pursuits.
- [Ben Behzad Lahouti, BSc PT, MSc, DPT](https://rehabottawa.ca/ben-behzad-lahouti-physiotherapist/): Ben is a registered physiotherapist who earned his Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy from Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (SBMU), one of Iran's leading medical universities. He later completed a Master of Science in Exercise Neuroscience at Memorial University of Newfoundland, where his research focused on understanding the neurophysiological mechanisms and adaptations of the nervous system in response to exercise. In recognition of his academic excellence and research achievements, he was awarded the Fellow of the School of Graduate Studies, an honour recognizing outstanding achievement in graduate education.
- [Maryam Motavalian, MSc PT, PhD Candidate](https://rehabottawa.ca/maryam-motavalian-physiotherapist/): Maryam Motavalian is an internationally trained physiotherapist and PhD Candidate at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy before completing a Master of Science in Physiotherapy, where her academic training focused on musculoskeletal rehabilitation and pain science. During her undergraduate studies, her research centered on knee pain, while her Master's research explored musculoskeletal and neuropathic neck pain, providing her with a strong foundation in the assessment and management of complex pain conditions.
- [Sima Vatandoost, MSc PT, PhD Candidate](https://rehabottawa.ca/sima-vatandoost-physiotherapist/): Sima Vatandoost is an internationally trained physiotherapist and PhD Candidate in Rehabilitation Sciences with more than a decade of experience in clinical practice and research. Since beginning her professional career in 2011, she has been dedicated to helping individuals manage pain, restore mobility and function, and regain independence through evidence-based rehabilitation. Her clinical philosophy is centered on patient-centred care, emphasizing comprehensive assessment, individualized treatment planning, and meaningful functional outcomes tailored to each patient's unique goals.
- [Leyla Sefiddashti, MSc PT, PhD Candidate](https://rehabottawa.ca/leyla-sefiddashti-physiotherapist/): Leyla Sefiddashti is a resident physiotherapist and PhD Candidate in Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Ottawa. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy before completing a Master of Science in Physiotherapy, where she developed advanced knowledge in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, sports physiotherapy, and human movement sciences. She is currently pursuing her doctoral research, which focuses on playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) in music students, with the goal of improving injury prevention, early identification, and rehabilitation strategies for performing artists.
- [Alireza Tahmasbi, MSc PT, PhD Candidate](https://rehabottawa.ca/alireza-tahmasbi-physiotherapist/): Alireza Tahmasbi is a physiotherapist and PhD Candidate in Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Ottawa. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy from the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences before completing a Master of Science in Physiotherapy at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. His doctoral research focuses on improving outcomes following orthopedic surgeries in individuals with hip and knee osteoarthritis, with an emphasis on optimizing rehabilitation strategies and enhancing long-term functional recovery.
- [Fatemeh Ehteshami, MSc PT, PhD Candidate](https://rehabottawa.ca/fatemeh-ehteshami-physiotherapist/): Fatemeh Ehteshami is a dedicated physiotherapist and PhD Candidate in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at Western University. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy before completing a Master of Science in Sport Physiotherapy, where her research focused on telerehabilitation for individuals with shoulder pain. Her graduate work explored innovative approaches to delivering evidence-based rehabilitation remotely, reflecting her interest in improving access to high-quality physiotherapy through digital health technologies.
- [Afsoon Razmjooee, BSc Orthotics & Prosthetics](https://rehabottawa.ca/afsoon-razmjooee-orthotist/): Afsoon Razmjooee is a certified orthotist with over 18 years of clinical experience in orthotic assessment, design, and fabrication. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Orthotics and Prosthetics before completing a two-year residency in Clinical Orthotics Management, where she developed advanced expertise in the assessment and management of patients with musculoskeletal, neurological, and orthopedic conditions. As the founder and clinical director of Orthomake Clinic in Ottawa, Afsoon is dedicated to providing personalized orthotic solutions that improve mobility, function, comfort, and overall quality of life.
- [Milad Ataeian, MSc PT, PhD (Candidate)](https://rehabottawa.ca/milad-ataeian-physiotherapist/): Milad Ataeian is a registered physiotherapist with more than 10 years of international clinical experience in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, orthopedic injuries, and sports-related conditions. He earned both his Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy and Master of Science in Physiotherapy from Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at Western University in London, Ontario, where his research focuses on the clinical applications of musculoskeletal ultrasonography in physiotherapy practice. His doctoral work aims to advance the integration of diagnostic ultrasound into physiotherapy assessment and rehabilitation, further strengthening evidence-based clinical decision-making.
- [Nima Jalali, BSc, DC](https://rehabottawa.ca/nima-jalali-chiropractor/): Dr. Nima Jalali is a licensed chiropractor with a strong background in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, manual therapy, and evidence-based patient care. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology before completing his Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Parker College of Chiropractic (Parker University) in Dallas, Texas, USA. Throughout his education and clinical training, Dr. Jalali developed a comprehensive understanding of musculoskeletal disorders, biomechanics, spinal health, and conservative orthopedic management, with a strong emphasis on combining hands-on treatment with active rehabilitation.
- [Sobhan (Soby) Sobhani, MSc PT, PhD](https://rehabottawa.ca/sobhan-sobhani-physiotherapist/): Sobhan (Soby) Sobhani is a registered physiotherapist with an extensive background in clinical practice, research, and academic leadership. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy from Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, followed by a Master of Science in Sports Physiotherapy from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. He later completed his PhD in Rehabilitation Science at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, where his doctoral research focused on investigating the effects of different types of footwear on Achilles tendinopathy, running biomechanics, and athletic performance. Following his PhD, he continued his academic career as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Groningen, further advancing his research in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and sports medicine.
- [Mahsa Mohammadzadeh, MSc OT, PhD Candidate](https://rehabottawa.ca/mahsa-mohammadzadeh/): Mahsa Mohammadzadeh is an occupational therapist and PhD Candidate in Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Ottawa. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy before completing a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, where she developed a strong foundation in neurological rehabilitation, functional recovery, and patient-centred care. She is currently pursuing her doctoral studies with a research focus on spinal cord injury, participation, and community reintegration, with particular emphasis on the Canadian healthcare system, rehabilitation services, and policy development.
- [Protocols](https://rehabottawa.ca/protocols/)
- [Home](https://rehabottawa.ca/): (In-Person)
- [Programs](https://rehabottawa.ca/programs/): If you’re living in Ottawa and are preparing for surgery, recovering from an injury, or returning to sport, you can choose from three specialized programs designed to help you progress toward your individual recovery and rehabilitation goals.
- [About](https://rehabottawa.ca/about/): Ottawa Rehab Protocols is an academic project founded by a group of rehabilitation practitioners who share a passion for research and evidence-based practice. Our mission is to create and share reliable, up-to-date rehabilitation protocols for musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries, including both surgical and non-surgical management.
- [Contact](https://rehabottawa.ca/contact/): Our research team at Ottawa Rehab Protocols is continuously working on developing and updating evidence-based rehabilitation protocols for various orthopedic and musculoskeletal injuries.

## Bitform Pages
- [](https://rehabottawa.ca/bitforms/bitforms-file/)