Catherine Ostiguy – Physiotherapist | Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC

Catherine Ostiguy is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at CISSS Montérégie-Centre (Hôpital du Haut-Richelieu) in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, 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). Catherine’s approach emphasizes a comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment strategies to address a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and post-surgical conditions. Her goal is to help patients regain function, alleviate pain, and improve their overall quality of life through evidence-based physiotherapy interventions.

With a focus on addressing diverse needs, Catherine offers services for individuals suffering from acute injuries, chronic pain, arthritis, and those recovering from surgeries. She also specializes in neurological rehabilitation for patients recovering from stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson’s Disease. Her expertise extends to helping older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring tailored care suited to each age group and condition. Catherine believes in empowering her patients with the knowledge and tools necessary for long-term wellness and injury prevention.

Having completed her degree in Physiotherapy, Catherine combines clinical experience with a commitment to continuous professional development. She has cultivated particular interests in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Neurological Physiotherapy. Her practice philosophy is rooted in evidence-based practice, emphasizing preventative care and proactive strategies to promote health. Catherine is fluent in English and French, enabling her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population and ensure comprehensive understanding of treatment plans and health education.

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

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal surgery.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Helping you manage pain, improve scar mobility, and regain optimal strength and range of motion in a limb following fracture fixation surgery.

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): Physiotherapy for common nerve compression syndromes, including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist), Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (neck/shoulder), Sciatica (low back/buttock), or Meralgia Paresthetica (outer thigh). Treatment often includes manual therapy, nerve gliding exercises (neural mobilization), postural correction, ergonomic advice, and activity modification.

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

• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Evidence-based neurological rehabilitation focused on harnessing neuroplasticity, motor learning principles, and task-specific training to help regain lost skills and adapt to new ways of moving.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Providing physiotherapy assessment, diagnosis, treatment guidance, education, exercise prescription, and self-management strategies remotely via secure video conferencing technology.

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 CISSS Montérégie-Centre (Hôpital du Haut-Richelieu), 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:

• Patients struggling with trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip can find dedicated and compassionate support from Catherine. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as taking group exercise classes at the community center.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Catherine's clinic, common concerns like needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like enduring your daily commute, whether driving or on public transit, without stiffness.
• Don't let experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy dictate what you can and cannot do. Catherine offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery, helping you reclaim playing in your competitive volleyball league again and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Catherine practices at the CISSS Montérégie-Centre (Hôpital du Haut-Richelieu), situated in the Saint-Jean Sector North neighborhood of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC. The facility is a prominent public healthcare institution that offers accessible and comprehensive services to the community. Conveniently located near the Théâtre des Deux Rives, the clinic is easily reachable by public transit via Transport Urbain / Taxibus du Haut-Richelieu. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, and street parking along with nearby paid lots provide ample options for visitors seeking to attend their physiotherapy appointments comfortably and conveniently.

Does CISSS Montérégie-Centre (Hôpital du Haut-Richelieu) offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, our clinic offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, and others. Patients are advised to bring their insurance cards and policy details to facilitate the process. It is recommended to verify coverage specifics, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductibles, directly with their insurance provider. The patient remains responsible for any portion not covered by their insurance.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiothérapeute will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including a detailed discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and personal health goals. A physical assessment will follow to identify the cause of your condition and assess your physical capabilities. The Physiothérapeute will then explain their findings, collaborate with you to establish treatment goals, and outline a tailored plan of care. You may also receive initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to initiate your recovery.

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, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and perform certain restricted activities. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises without diagnosing or independently creating treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, most patients will receive a customized home exercise program tailored to their specific needs. Performing these exercises as instructed is essential for optimal recovery and maintaining progress between sessions.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on individual conditions and recovery progress. Your Physiothérapeute will provide an estimated treatment plan after the initial assessment, which will be adjusted as needed throughout your care journey.

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

In general, most outpatient physiotherapy services in private clinics are not directly covered by RAMQ. Some exceptions exist for specific populations or services within public healthcare settings. Patients are advised to check their private insurance plans for coverage details and verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a referral, known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to confirm these requirements with your insurance provider prior to your appointment.

CISSS Montérégie-Centre (Hôpital du Haut-Richelieu)
920, Boulevard du Séminaire N
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC J3A 1B7

Phone: (450) 359-5000

Catherine Ostiguy 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.