Alexandra Radu – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Alexandra Radu is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal) in Montréal, QC, Alexandra is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). She specializes in managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Her approach involves comprehensive breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, tailored exercise prescriptions, and patient education to support recovery, improve respiratory function, and enhance overall quality of life.

Alexandra also assists individuals in regaining function, improving mobility, and managing symptoms following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Her compassionate and collaborative approach ensures that each patient receives personalized care that respects their unique needs and goals. She is passionate about empowering her patients through education and active participation in their rehabilitation journey, fostering a supportive environment within the Montréal community.

With a solid educational background and clinical experience, Alexandra Radu completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has since committed herself to ongoing professional development. She has developed a particular interest and expertise in Cardiorespiratory and Neurological Physiotherapy, staying current with evidence-based practices. Alexandra believes in promoting preventative care and long-term wellness through proactive physiotherapy strategies, working closely with her patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. She is fluent in French and English, ensuring clear communication and a warm, community-focused care experience.

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

Vestibular Balance

• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Comprehensive balance assessment by a Physiotherapist to identify underlying causes of unsteadiness, followed by targeted exercise programs and strategies to help you stay steady on your feet.
• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Reduced function of one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) inner ear balance systems (vestibular organs), leading to persistent dizziness, gaze instability (difficulty keeping vision clear during head movement), imbalance, and sometimes nausea.

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Symptoms such as localized or radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by mechanical compression or irritation of peripheral nerves at specific anatomical sites (entrapment points).
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Physiotherapy focuses on improving balance, strength, sensation (where possible), reducing fall risk, managing pain, and providing education on foot care (especially for diabetic neuropathy) and adaptive strategies.

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. Alexandra can assess your needs.

• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Rehabilitation: Tailored rehabilitation programs focusing on symptom-guided graded exercise therapy (starting very gently), pacing strategies to manage energy levels (avoiding post-exertional malaise), breathing exercises, functional retraining for daily activities, and education to help individuals recover from the long-term effects of COVID-19.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Targeted exercises and strategies designed by your Physiotherapist to improve your stability, coordination, lower limb strength, and body awareness (proprioception), thereby reducing your risk of falls, particularly beneficial for older adults or individuals with balance impairments.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Tailored exercises, hands-on techniques, and functional strategies to manage symptoms (e.g., spasticity, weakness, ataxia) and optimize function in various neurological conditions, promoting participation in daily life.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Alexandra. 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 CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Alexandra frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Are you finding that working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery stops you from enjoying joining in on pickup basketball games at the local court? Alexandra is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Many individuals seek help from Alexandra, their physiotherapist, when pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like managing the physical demands of your job without constant pain.
• Rediscover your ability to travel more comfortably on planes, trains, or in cars for longer durations without the constant burden of difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain. Alexandra focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Alexandra practices at CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal), a prominent public healthcare facility situated in the central Montréal neighborhood of Montréal. This location is easily accessible via multiple public transit routes, making it convenient for patients from various parts of the city. The clinic is strategically positioned close to community services and pharmacies, providing comprehensive support for patients' recovery and ongoing health needs. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiothérapeute will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy coverage varies. The Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. However, certain public programs or hospital-based services may offer coverage under specific conditions. It's important to verify your individual eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer substantial coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally access physiotherapy directly without a physician’s referral, known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy beforehand to ensure coverage and reimbursement eligibility.

What is CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal)'s appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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, including certain restricted activities with specific attestations. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding patients through exercises without diagnosing or creating treatment plans independently. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal)
1000, Rue Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1

Phone: (514) 890-8000

Alexandra Radu 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.