Chris Alappat

Registered Physiotherapist

Chris graduated from the University of Toronto's Masters of Science in Physical Therapy program in 2006. He is a member in good standing with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario. His career has spanned the continuum of care, working in large acute care hospitals, specialized rehab centres, private practice and community care.

In 2009, he volunteered for a year in West Africa, developing rehabilitation in a large rural hospital. He established the Physiotherapy Department, trained local staff, and fostered partnerships within the hospital and community based health groups. With a focus on Disability awareness, and public health education, he effectively doubled the number of patients seen, initiated regular referrals from the community and other health facilities, and organized a conference to address the physical and psycho-social barriers facing young adults with disabilities that was broadcast on the national television and radio and published in the newspapers.

In 2007, he travelled to Vancouver to present his Master's thesis at the World Confederation of Physical Therapy International Conference. His work examined the impact of Canadian Physiotherapists working in the developing world. It was well received and highlighted the valuable work of clinicians dedicated to international healthcare. During his training at the University of Toronto, he helped establish the first International Health Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association and served as its first student representative.

Chris has varied experience working with clients with orthopaedic injuries, neurological conditions (including Strokes, Spinal Cord Injuries, and Parkinson's Disease) and cardiorespiratory illnesses. He is a certified Chedoke McMaster Stroke Assessor, Dalhousie University Wheelchair Skills Program Instructor, and Credentialed Clinical Instructor with the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). He has taken all his Anatomical Acupuncture courses, Intro to Bobath Course: A Study of Human Movement, UHN Cardiorespiratory Assessment and Treatment Course, and attended several in-services on wheelchairs and seating systems. He attended the 3rd National Spinal Cord Injury Conference and South East Toronto Stroke Network Conference to stay up to date on current Best Practices.

Chris is passionate about ongoing professional development and plans to take further courses in the Bobath concept and Manual Therapy. He has a special interest in Neuroplasticity and how to utilize it to bring about the best possible outcomes in clients with neurological injuries.