Brigitte Della Belliveau – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Brigitte Belliveau is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at University of Ottawa Heart Institute in Ottawa, ON, Brigitte Belliveau is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Brigitte Belliveau's focus is 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. Brigitte Belliveau's work involves breathing exercises, airway clearance, exercise prescription, and education. Brigitte Belliveau serves adults.

Brigitte Belliveau completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 2018). With clinical experience, Brigitte Belliveau is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Brigitte Belliveau has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy.

Brigitte Belliveau embraces a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy. Brigitte Belliveau offers consultations in English, French.

Brigitte Belliveau provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Long Covid

• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Symptom Management: Tailored physiotherapy rehabilitation programs focusing on symptom-guided activity management (pacing), gentle graded exercise (carefully monitored to avoid post-exertional malaise - PEM), breathing retraining exercises, strategies for fatigue and 'brain fog', and functional retraining to help individuals manage the debilitating effects of Long COVID.

Cardioresp

• Asthma Management (Exercise-Induced & General Support): Techniques and education provided by a physiotherapist for better asthma self-management, improving breathing patterns, and reducing the impact of asthma on daily life.
• 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.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Brigitte Belliveau can assess your needs.

• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Rehabilitation: A structured physiotherapy approach to address the diverse and often fluctuating symptoms of Long COVID, aiming to improve exercise tolerance gradually, manage fatigue, and support a return to meaningful activities.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs: Enhancing daily function, reducing symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue, and improving the quality of life for people with ongoing lung disease through tailored exercise and education.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.

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

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

At University of Ottawa Heart Institute, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Brigitte Belliveau frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• It's truly rewarding for Brigitte Belliveau to witness patients conquer soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise and experience learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in going on birdwatching outings in various terrains again.
• Struggling with the frustration of recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim)? Brigitte Belliveau develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving successfully integrating safe movement strategies into their daily routines. This is key to helping you get back to doing swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Tired of awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) interfering with travelling more comfortably on planes, trains, or in cars for longer durations? Brigitte Belliveau uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand) and regain your freedom of movement.
• Don't let that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees dictate what you can and cannot do. Brigitte Belliveau offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form, helping you reclaim feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Brigitte Belliveau practices at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, situated in the Hintonburg, Civic Hospital, Westboro East neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Library and Archives Canada and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

Is there parking available at or near University of Ottawa Heart Institute?

Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for restrictions.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy refers to specialized hands-on techniques used by a Physiotherapist to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This can include joint mobilization (gentle, rhythmic gliding movements), joint manipulation (skilled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, where appropriate and within the therapist's scope and with your consent), various soft tissue mobilization techniques (like massage, myofascial release, trigger point release), and neural mobilization (gentle techniques to improve nerve movement). The primary goals are to reduce pain, improve range of motion, restore optimal joint mechanics, reduce muscle tension, and enhance tissue repair and function.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiotherapist will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what's done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you're not in a session.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics for most of the population. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility criteria are strict and there may be waitlists. It is strongly advised to check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

Patients in ON can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness, it should not be excessively painful. Your Physiotherapist will discuss what to expect and adjust techniques to ensure your comfort.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. Physiotherapy can assess movement, identify weaknesses, and provide exercises to prevent future injuries and recurring pain.

University of Ottawa Heart Institute
40 Ruskin Street
Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4W7

Phone: (613) 696-7000

Brigitte Della Belliveau is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Registration Number: XXX31

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=2f74f50b-0ccf-e811-816c-480fcfeae051

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