Elizabeth Carrizosa – Physiotherapist | Lachine, QC

Elizabeth Carrizosa is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CIUSSS de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal in Lachine, QC, Elizabeth is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach is rooted in performance enhancement and athletic rehabilitation, ensuring that her patients recover swiftly and return to their peak physical condition. Elizabeth specializes in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and functional movement issues, tailoring each treatment plan to meet the individual goals of active individuals, athletes, and those seeking to optimize their physical performance.

With a focus on sports injuries, post-injury recovery, and chronic condition management, Elizabeth emphasizes evidence-based practices and manual therapy techniques to facilitate optimal outcomes. She assists 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. Her dedication extends to serving senior patients, helping them maintain independence and active lifestyles through personalized physiotherapy interventions.

Elizabeth Carrizosa completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated extensive clinical experience. She is committed to continuous professional development, maintaining a practice grounded in current research and innovative techniques. Her particular interests include Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Neurological Physiotherapy, which she integrates into her comprehensive patient care. Fluent in French, English, and Spanish, Elizabeth communicates effectively with a diverse patient population, fostering a collaborative environment for achieving optimal health and performance.

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

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.

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): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal surgery.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Specialized physiotherapy after knee joint replacement surgery to help you regain independence, optimize your surgical outcome, and return to desired daily activities and hobbies.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Specialized physiotherapy focused on regaining shoulder movement, strength, stability, and function after various types of shoulder surgeries, such as rotator cuff repair, labral tear repair, shoulder stabilization procedures (e.g., Bankart repair), or shoulder joint replacement (arthroplasty).

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

• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• 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.
• 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.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy to address persistent concussion symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, balance problems, visual disturbances, and difficulty concentrating or tolerating activity.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Elizabeth. 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 CIUSSS de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Elizabeth frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• At Elizabeth's physiotherapy practice, individuals with a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) are guided towards a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as safely meeting the lifting requirements at your workplace.
• Tired of difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke interfering with simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around your neighborhood for fresh air? Elizabeth uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve improved circulation and tissue healing and regain your freedom of movement.
• Elizabeth believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy is hindering your ability to painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache, a personalized plan focusing on greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities can make all the difference.

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

Elizabeth practices at CIUSSS de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, situated in a modern clinic located centrally in the Lachine neighborhood of Montreal. This public healthcare facility is conveniently positioned near local community services, pharmacies, and public transit routes, making it easily accessible for patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiothérapeute, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy coverage under RAMQ is limited. Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Certain services in hospitals or CLSCs may be covered under specific conditions. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private extended health insurance plan for potential coverage.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If our clinic offers direct billing and your plan permits, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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

No, in Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy details before your appointment.

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

A Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and perform certain restricted activities. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress, but does not diagnose or independently plan treatments. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at CIUSSS de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal treat?

Our Physiothérapeutes treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues like back and neck pain, joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries like muscle strains and tears, nerve pain, and neurological conditions including stroke, Parkinson's, MS, and spinal cord injuries. They utilize personalized therapeutic exercise prescriptions, manual therapy, and general reconditioning programs to help you achieve your functional goals.

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.

CIUSSS de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal
650, Place d'Accueil
Lachine, QC H8S 3Z5

Phone: (514) 362-8000

Elizabeth Carrizosa 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.