Donald Patrick Balmforth – Physiotherapist | Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC

Donald Patrick Balmforth is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Catalyst Santé Inc. in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC. With a focus on providing high-quality, patient-centered care, Donald is committed to helping individuals improve their mobility, alleviate pain, and restore function through evidence-based physiotherapy practices. His approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring a comprehensive and effective rehabilitation experience.

Specializing in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, Donald's expertise includes the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of injuries affecting muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. His services are designed to support patients of all ages, from infants and young children to adults and seniors. Whether managing acute injuries, chronic pain, arthritis, or post-operative recovery, Donald strives to facilitate optimal healing and functional independence.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Donald has developed skills in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as Sports Physiotherapy. His philosophy centers on empowering patients through education and active participation in their recovery while collaborating closely to set realistic and motivating goals. Donald is fluent in English and French, allowing him to effectively communicate and connect with a diverse patient population.

Donald Patrick Balmforth provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• 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-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Guiding your rehabilitation journey after ACL or other ligament surgery, from early post-operative care to advanced sport-specific training and return-to-play testing.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A structured physiotherapy plan to help you recover full function, independence, and confidence in your new hip after replacement surgery.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Restoring your ability to perform daily tasks, work, and recreational activities by addressing pain, stiffness, and weakness after your shoulder surgery.

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A physiotherapy approach to address the unique challenges of AS, aiming to keep you as mobile and active as possible and support your spinal health and overall well-being.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Supportive physiotherapy for individuals with psoriatic arthritis, focusing on managing joint pain and swelling, maintaining range of motion and strength, improving function, and providing advice on activity modification and joint protection.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize quality of life.

Back Neck Pain

• 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).
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Muscular pain, trigger points, and tension headaches resulting from habitual poor posture, which can be addressed with postural re-education, exercises, and ergonomic advice.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Back or neck pain that often radiates into an arm or leg, potentially with numbness, tingling, weakness, or burning sensations, due to a spinal disc problem (herniation, protrusion, or bulge) compressing or irritating a nearby nerve root (radiculopathy). Sciatica specifically refers to radicular pain down the leg.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.

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

• If dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women) is preventing you from fully enjoying playing your musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods, Donald offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Tired of knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run interfering with actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back? Donald uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve enhanced ability to participate in social and community events and regain your freedom of movement.
• Physiotherapy with Donald can be a transformative turning point for those affected by breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity. The shared goal is achieving a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being, paving the way for you to enjoy playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder pain and a more active, vibrant life.

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

Located in the heart of Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Catalyst Santé Inc. offers convenient access within the central neighborhood. The clinic is situated amidst a vibrant community, close to local services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to incorporate their physiotherapy appointments into their daily routines. The facility is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring that patients from various parts of the region can reach us 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 Physiothérapeute in QC?

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician’s referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally necessary to see a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

For your initial visit, please bring your provincial health card (such as the RAMQ card) if applicable, along with any relevant medical information including a doctor’s referral note (if you have one), recent imaging reports (X-rays, MRI, ultrasound), and a list of current medications. If you plan to use private insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement to facilitate a thorough evaluation.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on the nature and severity of your condition, your treatment goals, and your body's response to therapy. Donald will discuss a treatment plan with you after the initial assessment, including the estimated number of sessions needed. Regular re-evaluations will help adjust the plan as you progress.

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

Experience mild soreness or temporary symptom increase is common after physiotherapy, especially when starting new exercises. Usually, this subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience severe pain, new neurological symptoms, or symptoms that persist longer than expected, contact Donald or the clinic directly for guidance. Adjustments to your treatment plan may be necessary.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec holds a master's degree in physiotherapy and has the autonomy to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans. A Technologue en physiothérapie has completed college-level training and assists physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, helping with exercises, and applying modalities under supervision.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ, and patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Certain public healthcare settings, such as hospitals or CLSCs, may provide coverage under specific circumstances. It is recommended to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plan for coverage details.

Catalyst Santé Inc.
475, Avenue Westminster
Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC H9G 2S3

Phone: (514) 421-2324 | Website: www.catalystsante.com

Donald Patrick Balmforth 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.