Catherine Walsh – Physiotherapy Technologist | Châteauguay, QC

Catherine Walsh is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS de la Montérégie-Ouest in Châteauguay, QC, Catherine is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach emphasizes a thorough understanding of each patient's unique needs, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to promote optimal recovery and functional improvement. With a focus on assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians, Catherine guides patients through therapeutic exercises and applies various treatment modalities to support their healing process.

Serving adults and seniors, Catherine's practice is grounded in evidence-based physiotherapy techniques. She strives to facilitate effective rehabilitation by combining manual therapy, modalities, and patient education. Her goal is to empower individuals to regain their mobility, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life through comprehensive and personalized physiotherapy interventions.

Educationally, Catherine Walsh completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that underscores her commitment to ongoing professional development. She is particularly skilled in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring — always aiming to incorporate the latest evidence-based practices into her work. Catherine is fluent in English, Spanish, and French, allowing her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population and provide culturally sensitive care.

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

Common Msk

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Common ankle injuries causing acute pain, persistent swelling, and instability, significantly affecting your ability to walk, run, or participate in sports.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Symptoms in your hand or wrist that impact your ability to perform your job, hobbies, or essential self-care tasks, addressed by specialized hand physiotherapy.

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

• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• 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.
• 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• 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 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 de la Montérégie-Ouest, 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:

• Catherine believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work is hindering your ability to sleep soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort, a personalized plan focusing on more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand) can make all the difference.
• For those whose grinding or crunching feeling in the knee or shoulder has made feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings seem like a distant memory, Catherine's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Rediscover your ability to swim laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation without the constant burden of pain in your shins when you try to run or be active (shin splints). Catherine focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to better joint stability during movement and weight-bearing activities, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Catherine's practice is situated within the CISSS de la Montérégie-Ouest, a public healthcare facility located in the central Châteauguay neighborhood of Châteauguay. This clinic is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easily accessible for residents. The facility is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) directly without a physician’s referral, a process known as direct access. While a referral is not legally required to consult a Phys. T., some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients are advised to verify their insurance policies before their first appointment to ensure coverage.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

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

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. However, care received directly at a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is recommended to verify coverage details directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance provider for eligible services.

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

A Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnose, and establish treatment plans independently. A Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed modalities and guiding patients through exercises without diagnosing or creating treatment plans independently. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy includes hands-on techniques used by physiotherapists or physiotherapy technologists to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, relax muscles, and enhance nerve mobility. Techniques may include joint glides, soft tissue massage, sustained pressures, and joint manipulations when indicated, all aimed at improving movement and reducing discomfort.

CISSS de la Montérégie-Ouest
200, Boulevard Brisebois
Châteauguay, QC J6K 4W8

Phone: (450) 659-7661

Catherine Walsh 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.