When you are dealing with chronic shoulder or elbow pain, it can feel like you are stuck in a cycle of “wait and see.” You’ve likely had the X-rays or the scans, but you’re still looking for a clear vision of how to actually get better.
At ESPClinics, our name stands for Extended Scope Practitioners, but we also embrace the other meaning of ESP: a “sixth sense” for musculoskeletal health.
Because our clinicians work at an advanced level—collaborating directly with orthopedic surgeons—we have developed an intuitive, deep-level insight into upper extremity pathologies. We see beyond the surface of a scan to understand how your pain affects your life, your movement, and your future.
While Ontario’s Rapid Access Clinics (RAC) focus on the hip, knee, and lower back, ESPClinics was built specifically to provide that same high-level, specialized triage for the Shoulder and Elbow.
We offer an interdisciplinary bridge. If you are wondering if you need surgery, or if you are frustrated that conservative treatments haven’t worked, we provide the “expert eyes” needed to determine your next steps.
We believe that an informed patient is a recovering patient. Your visit is designed to be the most comprehensive evaluation of your joint health you’ve ever had.
We focus our “sixth sense” exclusively on the complex joints of the upper extremity.
What is ESP Clinic?
ESP Clinic is a specialized orthopaedic joint and spine model of care that has been created to help assess and manage Ontarians with joint and spine pain and related symptoms. ESP Clinic provides patients with rapid access, thorough assessment and personalized self-management plans with the goal of empowering patients to take control of their orthopaedic joint and spine pain.
How is this different from regular Physiotherapy?
Standard physiotherapy focuses on treatment. An ESP assessment focuses on advanced triage and diagnostics. We work at the level of a surgical screen to tell you exactly what is wrong and whether surgical or non-surgical intervention is the best path forward.
How do I get referred?
The ESP Clinic is a new program which addresses all aspects of care for patients with joint and spine pain.
To be referred, ask your family doctor to send a referral using our standardized referral form via the home page of this website.
Who is eligible for ESP Clinic services?
ESP Clinic services are intended for patients who are suffering from persistent joint or spine symptoms between 6 weeks and 12 months or recurring, unmanageable joint or spine symptoms.
How will my ESP Clinic referral be handled?
After receiving your referral, the ESP Clinic team will contact you and book an appointment with the ESP clinician.
What do I need to do before my appointment?
Please arrive at least 20 minutes prior to your appointment in order to complete the detailed intake and outcome questionnaires. These are very important to your assessment. You will also have the opportunity to complete the questionnaires at home using our online outcome platform prior to your appointment.
You may be asked to complete an x-ray of your joint or spine before the appointment. If so, this will be communicated to you at the time of booking. Please inform the ESP Clinic administrative staff if you are unable to complete imaging studies.
Please allow 30-45 minutes to complete an x-ray.
Do I need to bring my previous imaging results?
Yes, if you have had imaging completed at an institution other than the University Health Network, Mount Sinai Hospital or Women’s College Hospital you will need to bring them.
Please bring the CD/DVD disc with the imaging AND written reports at the time of your appointment.
How to change/cancel my appointment?
If you need to cancel your appointment, please contact us by phone no later than 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointment.
What if English is not my primary language?
It is important that we understand your condition. If you are unable to clearly communicate your condition in English, please bring a friend or family member to your appointment to help you.
Translation services can also be made available if required.
How long is the assessment?
The ESP Clinic assessment is approximately 30 minutes long.
What happens during an assessment?
The ESP will take the time to perform a thorough history and physical examination for your condition. You will be provided with an explanation as to the most likely causes of your joint or spine symptoms. Additionally, you will be provided with a self-management plan to better manage your pain, improve your mobility as well as your overall function.
What if I need surgery or additional investigations?
If required, ESP Clinic patients that are considered surgical candidates will be provided with streamlined access to the appropriate orthopaedic surgeon.
This will be discussed with you at the time of your appointment if indicated and an appointment will be arranged through the ESP Clinic.
Does ESP Clinic provide medication?
ESP Clinic does not provide patients with medication or additional therapy to support their joint or spine pain. If you require pain medication, please contact your family physician.
Will my doctor or nurse practitioner be informed about my assessment?
Your doctor or nurse practitioner will be provided with your assessment results and next steps for the optimal management of your joint or spine condition.
