Christian Brideau – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Christian Brideau is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Kinatex - Apex Montcalm in Québec, QC. Christian is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the *Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ)*. His approach focuses on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including issues involving muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Christian’s expertise encompasses everything from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. His goal is to help patients regain optimal function, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life.

With a strong foundation in both clinical practice and ongoing professional development, Christian has developed specialized skills and a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Sports Physiotherapy. He has experience working with adult patients, tailoring individualized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based interventions and manual therapy techniques. Christian believes in empowering his patients through education and active participation in their recovery process, ensuring long-term wellness and injury prevention.

Christian’s practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered and collaborative approach. He actively involves individuals in setting realistic goals and designing personalized treatment strategies. Promoting preventative care and long-term health, Christian strives to support his patients’ journey toward improved mobility and function. Fluent in French, Christian effectively communicates with a diverse patient population, ensuring clarity and comfort throughout the therapeutic process.

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

Sports Injury

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Pain felt around, under, or behind the kneecap (patella), often described as a dull ache that is aggravated by activities like running, jumping, squatting, using stairs (especially going down), or prolonged sitting with the knee bent.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): Tiny cracks or severe bruising within a bone caused by repetitive force, overuse, or cumulative stress, common in weight-bearing bones of the lower leg (tibia, fibula), foot (metatarsals, navicular), or hip in athletes involved in high-impact sports.
• Muscle Strains (e.g., Hamstring, Calf, Groin, Quadriceps, Rotator Cuff): Damage to muscle tissue that can range from minor micro-tears to more significant partial or complete tears, impacting strength, power, and range of motion.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): An overuse injury affecting the lower leg, common in athletes, dancers, and military recruits, characterized by diffuse pain along the tibia.

Post Surgical

• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Guidance on hip precautions (if applicable for your surgical approach), a progressive exercise program, and functional retraining after hip surgery to help you achieve your goals.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Targeted physiotherapy to help you recover from operatively treated fractures, addressing common issues like joint stiffness, muscle weakness, swelling, pain, and functional limitations in the affected limb.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Comprehensive post-operative recovery guidance following knee replacement, including exercises, manual therapy, and education to ensure you achieve your best possible function.

Common Msk

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Common back problems that can impact your posture, ability to perform daily activities, and overall mobility, addressed with targeted physiotherapy.
• 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.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Christian 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.

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

• Are you finding that that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work stops you from enjoying feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings? Christian is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• The journey to improved performance in work-related physical demands when faced with persistent my child walking on their toes most of the time is made smoother and more effective with Christian's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like handling your job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Christian's clinic, common concerns like a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions.

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

Christian practices at Kinatex - Apex Montcalm, situated in a central Québec neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located within a modern private facility close to local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive health services. Easily reachable via local public transit routes, the clinic ensures convenience for those using bus or metro services. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiothérapeute to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral, a process known as *direct access*. However, while a referral may not be legally required to see a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans do require a physician's prescription for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider prior to your first appointment to confirm coverage details.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is to reduce pain and improve function. Some treatments or assessment techniques, such as soft tissue work or joint mobilizations, may cause mild, temporary discomfort especially if tissues are sensitive or inflamed. Your Physiothérapeute will always work within your tolerance levels, clearly explain what to expect, and encourage your feedback. If you experience significant pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

What are Kinatex - Apex Montcalm's operating hours?

Kinatex - Apex Montcalm is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some practitioners offering Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours may vary depending on the practitioner and the day. For the most current schedule and specific practitioner availability, please contact the clinic directly at [clinic phone number] or visit our website.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, physiotherapy is effective in injury prevention and managing recurring issues. Christian can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances or poor movement patterns and address them through targeted exercises, education, and activity modification. This proactive approach helps reduce the risk of initial injury, re-injury, and supports long-term health and activity levels.

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

In Quebec, the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) generally does not cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance for coverage. Certain services in public facilities or within specific programs may be covered, but for outpatient private care, most individuals need private insurance or direct payment. It is recommended to verify your coverage with RAMQ and consult your insurance provider for details on reimbursement options.

Kinatex - Apex Montcalm
1191, Avenue Cartier, # 16
Québec, QC G1R 2S9

Phone: (418) 647-3919 | Website: www.kinatex.com

Christian Brideau 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.