Cynthia Bizier – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Cynthia Bizier is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ) in Québec, QC, Cynthia is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her practice is centered on assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Additionally, Cynthia addresses a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions including acute injuries like sprains and strains, chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation, providing comprehensive care tailored to each patient's needs.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based physiotherapy practices, Cynthia has developed specialized skills and a particular interest in neurological and musculoskeletal physiotherapy. Her professional journey includes extensive clinical experience and ongoing professional development, ensuring her approach remains current and effective. Her focus remains on delivering personalized treatment plans that promote recovery, restore function, and support long-term health outcomes for her patients.

Cynthia’s practice philosophy emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. She advocates for preventative care and long-term wellness through proactive physiotherapy strategies. Fluent in both English and French, Cynthia is dedicated to making her services accessible and effective for the diverse Québec community.

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

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Helping to alleviate the symptoms of a catching, locking, or painful finger/thumb through targeted physiotherapy interventions, potentially avoiding the need for injections or surgery in some cases.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Managing a variety of acute and chronic conditions of the hand and wrist, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent long-term disability.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, resulting in a range of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties (e.g., 'brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

Neurological

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with MS stay active, manage symptoms effectively, maintain independence for as long as possible, and adapt to changes in their condition.
• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Targeted exercises and techniques provided by a Physiotherapist to manage symptoms of facial palsy and support optimal recovery of facial muscle control.
• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Utilizing evidence-based neuroplasticity principles, motor relearning techniques, and task-specific training to help stroke survivors improve movement and achieve their functional goals.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurorehabilitation provided by a Physiotherapist to support functional recovery, improve independence in daily activities, and facilitate community reintegration after a head injury.

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

• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: A non-invasive electrotherapy modality aimed at reducing pain, muscle guarding, or swelling, and sometimes used for muscle strengthening, as part of your physiotherapy treatment.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Specialized therapeutic interventions provided by a Neuro Physiotherapist to assist individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, balance, coordination, strength, and independence following a neurological event or diagnosis.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Specific training programs to enhance your sense of body position, improve your reaction times to unexpected balance disturbances, and build confidence in your ability to move safely in various environments.
• 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.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Cynthia. 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 Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Cynthia frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Cynthia can help you move beyond a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns). The focus is on greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as taking energetic, long walks with your dog every day.
• Cynthia believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night is hindering your ability to participate in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises, a personalized plan focusing on being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury can make all the difference.
• Tired of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older interfering with getting back to golfing 18 holes without your back acting up? Cynthia uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Cynthia practices at the Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), situated in a central Québec neighborhood. The clinic is part of a respected public healthcare facility that is easily accessible via local public transit routes. Its location is convenient for patients from the surrounding community, with nearby services and pharmacies to support comprehensive care. 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 Physiothérapeute in QC?

Patients in Québec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to initiate treatment, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm their specific requirements.

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

In general, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Some limited coverage may be available through specific programs for certain populations, such as seniors or low-income individuals, typically within hospital or CLSC settings. Most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics is paid out-of-pocket or reimbursed through private insurance plans. Patients are encouraged to verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and review their private insurance coverage.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques used by Physiothérapeutes to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, relax tight muscles, and enhance nerve mobility. Common methods include joint glides, soft tissue massage, sustained pressures, and joint manipulations, all aimed at facilitating better movement and function.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, enabling autonomous assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and supports physiotherapy care by implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, and applying modalities under supervision.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare discipline focused on restoring and improving movement, alleviating pain, and enhancing overall well-being. It involves personalized assessment, targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to address injuries, chronic conditions, and physical impairments across all age groups.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes. Physiotherapy can identify risk factors such as muscle imbalances or poor movement patterns and address them through specific exercises, education, and ergonomic advice. This proactive approach helps prevent initial injuries, re-injuries, and manages chronic conditions effectively.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your first appointment involves a comprehensive assessment, including discussion of your medical history and symptoms, followed by physical evaluations of movement, strength, and posture. Based on this, Cynthia will provide a diagnosis, discuss treatment options, and may initiate some initial interventions or provide home exercises.

Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ)
2725, Chemin Sainte-Foy
Québec, QC G1V 4G5

Phone: (418) 656-8711

Cynthia Bizier 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.