Brian Smith – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Brian Smith is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Hôpital Catherine-Booth in Montréal, QC, Brian is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. His approach emphasizes comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plans designed to facilitate optimal recovery and enhance overall well-being. With a focus on evidence-based practices, Brian strives to empower his patients through education and active participation in their rehabilitation process.

Brian's physiotherapy expertise encompasses addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and extensive post-operative rehabilitation. Additionally, he manages acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-cardiac surgery recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. His treatments often involve breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, tailored exercise prescription, and patient education to promote long-term health and independence.

Having completed his degree in Physiotherapy, Brian has accumulated clinical experience and continues to pursue ongoing professional development. His interests include Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy. He is dedicated to offering care that promotes preventative health measures and supports long-term wellness for the Montréal community. Brian is fluent in English and French, facilitating effective communication with a diverse patient population.

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

Long Covid

• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Symptom Management: A structured and individualized physiotherapy approach to address the diverse and often fluctuating symptoms of Post-COVID-19 Syndrome, aiming to improve exercise tolerance gradually, manage fatigue effectively, and support a return to meaningful activities and work.

Cardioresp

• Post-Pneumonia / Respiratory Infection Recovery: Physiotherapy to aid your recovery from serious respiratory illnesses and their lingering effects on your breathing and overall physical capacity.
• Asthma Management (Exercise-Induced & General Support): A chronic inflammatory condition of the airways causing recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing, often triggered by allergens, irritants, cold air, or exercise (Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction - EIB).
• Bronchiectasis Management (Airway Clearance): A chronic lung condition where the airways (bronchi) become permanently widened and damaged, leading to mucus buildup, recurrent chest infections, chronic cough, and breathlessness. Physiotherapy focuses primarily on airway clearance techniques.
• Post-Cardiac Event Rehabilitation (Supportive Care, e.g., after MI or CABG): Physiotherapy exercise guidance, education on safe activity progression, and risk factor modification support as part of a comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation program following events like a heart attack (myocardial infarction - MI), heart surgery (e.g., coronary artery bypass graft - CABG, valve replacement), or angioplasty.

Common Msk

• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Neck problems that interfere with your sleep quality, ability to work comfortably (especially at a desk), or perform everyday tasks without pain.
• 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.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.

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

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs: Comprehensive, often multidisciplinary, programs for individuals with chronic lung conditions (e.g., COPD, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, interstitial lung disease), with a core physiotherapy component focusing on supervised exercise training (aerobic and strength), breathing techniques, education on managing the condition, and strategies for energy conservation.
• 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.
• Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy (e.g., COPD, Asthma, Post-Pneumonia, Post-Cardiac Event Support): Specialized care for heart and lung conditions, focusing on functional improvement, symptom management, and empowering you with strategies for better respiratory and cardiac health. Also includes recovery support after pneumonia or other significant respiratory infections.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Brian. 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 Hôpital Catherine-Booth, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Brian frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients struggling with tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot can find dedicated and compassionate support from Brian. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence.
• For those whose feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort has made maintaining an upright posture while working on your computer for hours seem like a distant memory, Brian's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to maintaining an upright posture while working on your computer for hours with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Rediscover your ability to working at your desk all day without developing back or neck stiffness without the constant burden of aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk. Brian focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Brian practices at Hôpital Catherine-Booth, situated within a clinic in the central Montréal neighborhood of Montréal. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring convenient travel options for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services through direct access, meaning a referral from a doctor is not legally required to see a Physiothérapeute. However, while a referral may not be necessary to initiate treatment, some private or extended health insurance plans do require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend contacting your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand your plan's specifics. Important details to check include your annual maximum, per-visit limits, co-payments, whether a referral is needed for reimbursement, and if direct billing is available. If our clinic offers direct billing and your plan permits it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance at the time of service. Be sure to bring your insurance card and relevant policy information to your appointment.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance for coverage. Care received within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered under specific circumstances, but private outpatient physiotherapy is usually not reimbursed by RAMQ. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance provider for coverage options.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They may perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments, assisting physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, helping patients with exercises, and reporting progress.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is an integral part of physiotherapy treatment. Brian will prescribe exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals to support your recovery, manage symptoms, and promote independence. Active participation in your home program is essential for achieving optimal outcomes.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area and freedom of movement for exercises. Shorts are suitable for lower limb issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for upper body concerns. Athletic wear is recommended, and a gown may be provided if necessary.

Hôpital Catherine-Booth
4375, Avenue Montclair
Montréal, QC H4B 2J5

Phone: (514) 484-7878

Brian Smith 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.