Dominique Sauve – Physiotherapist | Laval, QC

Dominique Sauve is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Collège Montmorency in Laval, QC. Committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, Dominique adheres strictly to the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). With a compassionate approach, Dominique strives to understand each patient’s unique needs and develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and functional recovery.

Her physiotherapy focus encompasses addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Dominique also specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, working with athletes of all levels—from recreational to elite—to help them return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries. She serves a diverse patient population, including older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dominique completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated valuable clinical experience. She is committed to ongoing professional development, staying current with evidence-based practices. Her particular interests include Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Sports Physiotherapy, which she integrates into her holistic approach. Dominique’s practice philosophy emphasizes collaboration, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals, and promoting preventative care for long-term wellness. She is fluent in English and French, ensuring clear communication with her diverse patient community.

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

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Conservative physiotherapy management for trigger digit, which may include splinting to rest the tendon, specific tendon gliding exercises, activity modification advice, modalities to reduce inflammation, and education to prevent recurrence.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Physiotherapy to help you regain optimal use of your hand and wrist after an injury, surgery, or due to a chronic condition, enabling you to return to work, hobbies, and daily tasks.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

Back Neck Pain

• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).

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

• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Evidence-based physiotherapy for a wide range of sports-related injuries (e.g., ligament sprains, muscle tears, tendinopathies, overuse injuries), incorporating advanced techniques and sport-specific training.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiothérapeute to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Gait Analysis & Running/Walking Re-training: Helping you move better and reduce injury risk by analyzing and correcting your walking or running technique, addressing issues like overpronation, hip drop, or poor cadence.

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

• Discover how physiotherapy with Dominique can help you move beyond clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk. The focus is on a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak? Dominique works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• Tired of persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady interfering with performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching your back? Dominique uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve improved performance in work-related physical demands and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Dominique practices at the Collège Montmorency, situated in the Laval-des-Rapides neighborhood of Laval. This Maison d'enseignement (public educational environment) facility is conveniently located near Place Bell and is easily accessible via the Société de transport de Laval (STL). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at Collège Montmorency 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 (such as herniated discs or whiplash), joint problems (arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries (ligament sprains, muscle tears), and nerve pain. They also have expertise in areas like Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Sports Physiotherapy, often involving manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education to help you reach your functional goals.

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 diagnoses, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions, including some restricted activities with specific attestations. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician. They assist by applying prescribed treatments, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress but do not diagnose or independently plan treatments. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What is Collège Montmorency's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. A fee may be charged for late cancellations or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact the clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy session to last around an hour, allowing for a comprehensive assessment and goal setting. Follow-up sessions usually range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your specific needs. Your Physiothérapeute will advise on the appropriate duration for your treatment plan.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy before your appointment.

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care provided in public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered under specific circumstances. It’s recommended to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and consult your insurance provider for coverage details.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

If you experience a significant increase in pain, new neurological symptoms, or prolonged soreness, contact Dominique or your healthcare provider promptly. It’s important to reassess your condition to ensure appropriate care and adjustments to your treatment plan.

Collège Montmorency
475, Boulevard de l'Avenir
Laval, QC H7N 5H9

Phone: (450) 975-6100

Dominique Sauve 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.