Carol Anne Shay – Physiotherapist | Westmount, QC

Carol Anne Shay is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Kinatex Westmount in Westmount, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Carol's approach emphasizes comprehensive assessment, personalized treatment planning, and evidence-based interventions to facilitate optimal recovery and functional improvement for her patients. Her practice primarily serves adult patients, addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and other health conditions with a focus on promoting long-term wellness and injury prevention.

Carol's expertise includes managing various muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. Her scope of practice encompasses acute injuries such as sprains and strains, chronic pain management, arthritis care, and detailed post-operative rehabilitation. Additionally, Carol specializes in the management of primary and secondary lymphedema using proven techniques like Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which involves manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), compression therapy, exercise, and skin care. Her holistic approach aims to restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life for her adult patients through tailored physiotherapy programs.

With a solid educational foundation and ongoing professional development, Carol has developed specific skills and interests in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Lymphedema Management. She continually updates her knowledge to incorporate the latest evidence-based practices into her treatments, ensuring her patients receive the most effective and current care available. Carol is fluent in English and French, facilitating clear communication and patient education in both languages.

Carol Anne Shay provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis focuses on maintaining spinal mobility and flexibility (especially extension), improving posture, strengthening core and back muscles, managing pain, and providing education on self-management and regular exercise.

Lymphedema

• Lymphedema Management (Primary or Secondary): Comprehensive therapy to reduce lymphedema-related swelling, improve lymphatic fluid flow, maintain limb volume, prevent complications such as cellulitis or skin changes, and educate you on long-term self-management strategies.

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

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: A non-invasive light therapy used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, promote faster healing, reduce pain, and modulate inflammation without generating heat.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from feeling like my joints are just 'wearing out' and getting harder to move and achieved sleeping more soundly through the night due to reduced pain and discomfort under the skilled care of Carol. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as getting back to your regular, consistent gym workouts with a new lease on life.
• Carol believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury is hindering your ability to cycling longer distances with your cycling club, a personalized plan focusing on successfully integrating safe movement strategies into their daily routines can make all the difference.
• When a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing, physiotherapy with Carol can help you work towards enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.

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

Carol practices at Kinatex Westmount, situated in a modern clinic located in the central Westmount neighborhood of Westmount, QC. This private clinic facility offers a comfortable and professional environment, conveniently situated near local community services and pharmacies. Easily accessible via multiple public transit routes, the clinic ensures patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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 reimbursement. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plan for potential coverage.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, including assessment and treatment planning, usually lasts about 60 minutes. Follow-up sessions are generally 30 to 45 minutes long. The exact duration depends on your specific treatment needs and your Physiothérapeute's plan.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at Kinatex Westmount treat?

Physiotherapists at Kinatex Westmount treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues such as back and neck pain, joint problems like arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, nerve pain, and conditions like Gout or ankylosing spondylitis. Treatments often involve manual therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, electrotherapy, and patient education to help achieve functional goals.

Does Kinatex Westmount offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Kinatex Westmount offers direct billing for most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, and Blue Cross. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to facilitate the process. If direct billing is not available for your plan, receipts will be provided for you to submit for reimbursement.

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

A Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnoses, and create treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college-level diploma and works under supervision, applying prescribed treatments and assisting in patient care without diagnosing or establishing treatment plans independently. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

Please bring your health insurance card, any relevant medical reports, imaging results, list of medications, and your referral letter if applicable. Wearing comfortable clothing is recommended to facilitate assessment and treatment.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify your insurance requirements before your appointment.

Kinatex Westmount
245, Avenue Victoria, #110
Westmount, QC H3Z 2M5

Phone: (514) 483-1213 | Website: www.kinatex.com

Carol Anne Shay 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.