Rachel Brosseau – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Rachel Brosseau is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Institut de cardiologie de Montréal in Montréal, QC, Rachel is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her practice 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.

Rachel completed her degree in Physiothérapie and has accumulated clinical experience that enhances her ability to deliver effective, evidence-based physiotherapy care. She remains committed to ongoing professional development, staying current with the latest advancements and techniques in her field to ensure her patients receive the most effective treatments tailored to their needs.

Her practice philosophy emphasizes a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Rachel promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Montréal community through proactive physiotherapy. She is fluent in French, facilitating clear communication and personalized care for her diverse patient population.

Rachel Brosseau provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Common Msk

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Common ankle injuries causing acute pain, persistent swelling, and instability, significantly affecting your ability to walk, run, or participate in sports.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Hip problems that interfere with your mobility, sleep, and daily comfort, which can be effectively managed with physiotherapy interventions.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.
• 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.

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Back or neck pain accompanied by associated limb symptoms (pain, sensory changes, weakness) due to a constricted spinal canal, which physiotherapy can help manage conservatively.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Back or neck pain that often radiates into an arm or leg, potentially with numbness, tingling, weakness, or burning sensations, due to a spinal disc problem (herniation, protrusion, or bulge) compressing or irritating a nearby nerve root (radiculopathy). Sciatica specifically refers to radicular pain down the leg.
• 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.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Rachel can assess your needs.

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Rachel. For a full list or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

At Institut de cardiologie de Montréal, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Rachel frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• With Rachel's help, managing dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash to achieve enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours.
• Living with facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) doesn't have to be your norm. Rachel applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of managing the physical demands of your job without constant pain.
• Tired of that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away interfering with participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf? Rachel uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve moving more freely and with greater agility than they have in years and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Rachel's practice is located at the Institut de cardiologie de Montréal, situated in the central Montréal neighborhood of Montréal. This reputable public healthcare facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive healthcare in a familiar environment. The clinic is easily accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring convenient travel for patients from various parts of the city. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What is the difference between a Physiotherapist (Physiothérapeute) and a Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) in Quebec?

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiothérapeute in QC?

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to initiate physiotherapy care, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy prior to your first appointment.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiothérapeute can properly examine and treat the area.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting their criteria, but private clinic physiotherapy is usually not. It is recommended to verify your individual coverage directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for reimbursement options.

Is there parking available at or near Institut de cardiologie de Montréal?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Metered street parking is generally available on nearby streets, and there is a paid public parkade located a short walk away from the clinic. Always check signage for restrictions and hours of operation.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Follow-up sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes, but this can vary depending on your specific needs and treatment plan developed by Rachel.

Institut de cardiologie de Montréal
5000, Rue Bélanger
Montréal, QC H1T 1C8

Phone: (514) 376-3330

Rachel Brosseau is regulated by the Code des professions and Professional Integration Arrangement for physiotherapists in QC and is a member of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Registration can be verified with the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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