About
Dr. Karine Garneau is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at CHUM in Montréal, QC, she is an integral part of the local medical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that patients receive care that is safe, effective, and evidence-based. Dr. Garneau provides comprehensive neurological care for a wide spectrum of conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. Her approach is patient-centered, focusing on individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating complex neurological conditions, emphasizing clear communication and compassionate care.
Dr. Garneau holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has over 8 years of experience practicing as a Neurologist since 2016. She has completed extensive post-graduate training in neurology (Disorders of the Brain, Spinal Cord, Nerves, and Muscles) and holds the necessary certifications to practice in Quebec, including registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) with license number 16095. Her professional credentials reflect her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of neurological expertise and patient safety.
Her clinical philosophy is rooted in a commitment to providing patient-centered, holistic neurological care that integrates the latest evidence-based practices. Dr. Garneau believes in empowering her patients through ongoing education and support, fostering a collaborative approach to managing neurological health. She is fluent in French and dedicates herself to serving the Montreal community with compassion and professionalism, ensuring that each patient feels heard, informed, and cared for throughout their treatment journey.
Dr. Karine Garneau addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
- Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
- Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.
Headache Disorders
- Migraine (with or without Aura): A type of headache that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
- Cluster Headache: Intensely painful headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or cluster periods, one of the most severe types of pain known.
- Tension-Type Headache: The most common type of primary headache, often described as a constant ache or pressure around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck.
Cognitive Disorders & Dementia
- Vascular Dementia: Dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to stroke or a series of small strokes.
- Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): An intermediate stage between the expected cognitive decline of normal aging and the more serious decline of dementia.
- Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): A group of disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to changes in personality, behavior, and language.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Karine Garneau.
- Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
- Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
- Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
- Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Garneau for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
CHUM is situated in Montréal's vibrant Ville-Marie East (Quartier Latin, Village) neighborhood, offering easy access to public transportation and local amenities. The facility is conveniently located near the Mile End District and Jeanne Mance Park, making it a central and accessible choice for neurological care. Patients can reach the clinic via the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), with options including Métro and Bus services. The building is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby to accommodate patients arriving by car, providing ease of access for those with mobility needs. The clinic's location fosters a welcoming environment for patients and their families seeking expert neurological evaluation and treatment.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Garneau, a Neurologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Garneau, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Garneau's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Garneau, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Garneau for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.
- How does Dr. Garneau manage Parkinson's disease?
- Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Garneau will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.
- What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how is it treated?
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. Treatment focuses on managing acute relapses (often with corticosteroids), slowing disease progression with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), and managing symptoms (like fatigue, spasticity, pain, bladder problems). Dr. Garneau can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.
CHUM
C.13.7101-1000 rue Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1
Phone: (514) 890-8237 | Fax: (514) 412-7554
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Garneau is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Garneau for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=16095