Barbara Chalifoux – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Barbara Chalifoux is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest de-l'île-de-Montréal (CR Constance-Lethbridge) in Montréal, QC, Barbara is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She specializes in assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Barbara provides tailored assessments and treatments for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. Her goal is to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk, helping her patients regain confidence and independence.

Barbara's approach emphasizes a comprehensive, evidence-based, performance-oriented therapy that caters to adults and seniors. She works closely with her patients, combining manual techniques, functional exercises, and patient education to optimize outcomes. Her focus on neurological rehabilitation makes her a valuable resource for those seeking to restore movement and reduce disability, allowing her patients to return to active, engaged lifestyles.

With a strong educational background and ongoing professional development, Barbara has developed expertise in areas such as Neurological Physiotherapy and Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. She believes in a collaborative approach, empowering her patients through clear communication and practical self-management strategies. Fluent in both English and French, Barbara is dedicated to serving Montréal’s diverse community with compassionate, performance-driven physiotherapy care.

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

Common Msk

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Common knee complaints that can affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, squat, run, or participate in sports, addressed through a tailored physiotherapy program.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Addressing conditions affecting nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, aiming to relieve pressure on the nerve, reduce inflammation, restore normal nerve function, and alleviate symptoms.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Addressing the physical consequences of nerve damage in the limbs through targeted exercises (e.g., for balance, strength, desensitization), sensory re-education, and advice on appropriate footwear or assistive devices.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy for concussion recovery, focusing on symptom management, restoring normal function, and preventing long-term complications through evidence-based interventions.

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

• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• 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.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Barbara. 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 CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest de-l'île-de-Montréal (CR Constance-Lethbridge), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Barbara frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• When trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain, physiotherapy with Barbara can help you work towards greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• The path to recovery from recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches and achieving a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities for simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions often starts with expert guidance. Barbara, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• For those whose trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has made participating in community events and social gatherings more actively seem like a distant memory, Barbara's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to participating in community events and social gatherings more actively with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Barbara practices at the CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest de-l'île-de-Montréal (CR Constance-Lethbridge), situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access care. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring accessible transportation options for everyone. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Does CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest de-l'île-de-Montréal (CR Constance-Lethbridge) offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, our clinic offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, and others. Patients are advised to bring their insurance card and policy details to facilitate the process. It is recommended to verify coverage specifics with your insurer before your appointment, as plans may vary. Please note that patients are responsible for any portion not covered by their insurance.

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 and is an autonomous healthcare professional authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and apply various therapeutic interventions, including some 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, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress but does not diagnose or independently develop treatment plans. Both 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 (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 before your first appointment to confirm any specific requirements.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest de-l'île-de-Montréal (CR Constance-Lethbridge) treat?

Our Physiothérapeutes treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues like back and neck pain, joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, nerve pain, and neurological conditions such as stroke, MS, Parkinson's, and traumatic brain injuries. They also offer specialized services like vestibular rehabilitation and pelvic health therapy, focusing on restoring balance, reducing dizziness, and improving overall function. Treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education tailored to individual goals.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy encompasses hands-on techniques used by your Physiothérapeute to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, relax tight muscles, and restore nerve mobility. Common approaches include joint glides, soft tissue massage, and joint manipulations, all aimed at promoting better movement and reducing discomfort.

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

In general, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some exceptions exist for services received in hospitals or CLSCs under specific criteria. It is important to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for coverage details.

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

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is recommended. For lower-body treatments, shorts are helpful, while for upper-body issues, a loose t-shirt or tank top is suitable to allow proper examination and treatment of the targeted area.

CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest de-l'île-de-Montréal (CR Constance-Lethbridge)
7005, Boulevard de Maisonneuve O
Montréal, QC H4B 1T3

Phone: (514) 487-1770

Barbara Chalifoux 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.