Carla Casbo – Physiotherapist | Laval, QC

Carla Casbo is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Action Sport Physio (Laval-Duvernay) in Laval, QC, Carla is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach is rooted in understanding each individual's unique needs, promoting recovery, and fostering a supportive environment that encourages active participation in the healing process.

Carla's physiotherapy focus 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 comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. She also assists 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. Her goal is to empower patients of all ages—older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors—to regain their strength and independence.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based practices, Carla completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has gained valuable clinical experience. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development, with particular interests in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as Neurological Physiotherapy. Carla believes in a patient-centered philosophy, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. She aims to empower her patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Carla is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.

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

Common Msk

• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.
• 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.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Pain affecting the hip joint and surrounding musculature, which can limit activities like walking, standing for long periods, rising from a chair, or lying on the affected side.
• 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.

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Supportive physiotherapy for individuals with psoriatic arthritis, focusing on managing joint pain and swelling, maintaining range of motion and strength, improving function, and providing advice on activity modification and joint protection.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, resulting in a range of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties (e.g., 'brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

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

• 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.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Helping you overcome dizziness, vertigo, and unsteadiness with targeted vestibular exercises and strategies, enabling you to return to daily activities with greater stability and comfort.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Comprehensive physiotherapy programs designed to maximize quality of life and functional abilities for individuals with conditions like stroke (CVA), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, traumatic or acquired brain injury (TBI/ABI), or incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI).
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Carla. 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 Action Sport Physio (Laval-Duvernay), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Carla frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many individuals seek help from Carla, their physiotherapist, when widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain.
• For those whose that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder has made participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf seem like a distant memory, Carla's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Carla can help you move beyond hip pain when I walk, climb stairs, or try to sleep on my side. The focus is on enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as keeping up with your team during our weekly soccer match.

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

Carla practices at Action Sport Physio (Laval-Duvernay), situated in the Saint-François neighborhood of Laval. This private clinic facility is conveniently located near Gare Chomedey (future) and is accessible via Société de transport de Laval (STL). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or specific treatments (like deep soft tissue work, joint mobilization, or certain exercises) might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if the tissues being treated are sensitive, inflamed, or very stiff. However, your Physiothérapeute will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

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

In Quebec, most physiotherapy services offered in private clinics are not directly covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Certain public programs or services within hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if specific criteria are met. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private extended health insurance plans, as many offer coverage for physiotherapy in private clinics.

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

No, in Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly through a process known as 'direct access.' However, some private health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy beforehand to confirm coverage requirements.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your initial session, including assessment and treatment planning, usually lasts about 60 minutes. Follow-up visits generally range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your specific needs and treatment plan.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It is helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters, relevant medical reports or imaging, and your private insurance details if applicable. Wearing comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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

A Physiothérapeute has completed a master's level university education, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and plays a vital role in implementing physiotherapy treatments under supervision, assisting with exercises and modalities, and reporting progress back to the physiotherapist or physician.

Action Sport Physio (Laval-Duvernay)
4731, Boulevard Lévesque E, # 201
Laval, QC H7C 1M9

Phone: (450) 232-0056

Carla Casbo 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.