Catherine Dansereau – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Catherine Dansereau is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CIUSSS-CSIM (Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal) in Montréal, QC, Catherine is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her practice centers on assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Catherine offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. Her goal is to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and lower fall risk, helping patients regain confidence and independence.

With a strong foundation in physiotherapy, Catherine completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated extensive clinical experience. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development and applies evidence-based practices in her treatments. Catherine has developed particular expertise in Neurological Physiotherapy and Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation, allowing her to tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of her patients. Her approach emphasizes personalized care, combining manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and patient education to optimize outcomes.

Promoting preventative care and long-term wellness, Catherine adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with her patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. She believes in empowering individuals through education and practical self-management strategies, ensuring lasting improvements. Catherine is fluent in English, French, and Italian, facilitating effective communication and culturally sensitive care for diverse patient populations.

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

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.

Vestibular Balance

• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, including habituation exercises, sensory re-weighting, and balance training, often as part of a multidisciplinary approach (which may include medication or CBT), for managing the symptoms of PPPD/3PD.
• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Individualized exercise programs including gaze stabilization exercises (e.g., VORx1, VORx2), habituation exercises (for motion sensitivity), and balance retraining to improve function when the vestibular system is impaired.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Resolving the spinning sensations caused by BPPV quickly and effectively through targeted canalith repositioning techniques, often providing immediate relief.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Difficulty maintaining stability during standing, walking, or changing positions, which may be due to various factors including age-related changes, neurological conditions, musculoskeletal weakness, sensory impairments, or medication side effects, often leading to an increased risk of falls.

Peripheral Nerve

• 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.
• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Alleviating symptoms and improving function for individuals with entrapped nerves through conservative physiotherapy management, helping to avoid more invasive interventions.

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

• 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.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Effective virtual physiotherapy care to help you manage your condition, progress your rehabilitation, and receive professional advice when in-person visits are challenging or not preferred.
• 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).
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Convenient and effective physiotherapy care delivered in your home by a qualified Physiotherapist, focusing on your specific goals and challenges.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Catherine. 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-CSIM (Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Catherine frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• For those whose a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) has made walking your children to school or the park seem like a distant memory, Catherine's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to walking your children to school or the park with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• If recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) is preventing you from fully enjoying being able to carry your baby or toddler without straining your back or arms, Catherine offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for daily activities, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• When feeling like my joints are just 'wearing out' and getting harder to move is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing resuming your weightlifting routine at the gym safely, physiotherapy with Catherine can help you work towards a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties. 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 Catherine, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Catherine practices at CIUSSS-CSIM (Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal), situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility offers accessible, comprehensive rehabilitation services and is conveniently located near local community amenities, pharmacies, and transit routes. The clinic is easily reachable via public transit, making it convenient for patients from various parts of Montréal. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at CIUSSS-CSIM (Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal) treat?

Our Physiothérapeutes treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain (Cervicogenic Headaches), joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries (like Post-Cardiac Event Rehabilitation, support after MI or CABG), nerve pain, and balance disorders. They also specialize in areas like Neurological Physiotherapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation. Common services include Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified), Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment, manual therapy, and patient education to help clients achieve their functional goals.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiothérapeute will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation is key to achieving optimal results.

What is the difference between a Physiothérapeute and a Physiotherapy Technologist in Quebec?

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is an autonomous healthcare professional authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create and modify treatment plans, and perform certain restricted activities. A Physiotherapy Technologist, on the other hand, holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress without diagnosing or creating treatment plans independently. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some coverage may be available within public hospitals or CLSCs under specific criteria. It is important to verify individual eligibility directly with RAMQ and check private insurance plans for extended coverage.

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 recommended to check the requirements of your insurance plan before your appointment.

CIUSSS-CSIM (Institut de réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal)
6300, Avenue de Darlington
Montréal, QC H3S 2J4

Phone: (514) 340-2085

Catherine Dansereau 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.