Elizabeth Dannenbaum – Physiotherapist | Laval, QC

Elizabeth Dannenbaum is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Vestibular & Balance Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation in Laval, QC, Elizabeth is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her practice emphasizes a comprehensive approach to physiotherapy, with specialized assessment and tailored treatment plans designed to address each patient's unique needs. Elizabeth’s goal is to help individuals regain their mobility, reduce symptoms, and improve their overall quality of life through evidence-based interventions.

Elizabeth’s focus lies in offering specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. She aims to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk, serving a diverse patient population that includes infants, children, adults, and seniors. Her approach integrates manual therapy, vestibular rehabilitation exercises, and fall prevention strategies to promote functional recovery and long-term wellness. Elizabeth is dedicated to empowering her patients through education and active participation in their rehabilitation journey.

With a solid educational foundation and extensive clinical experience, Elizabeth completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has continuously developed her expertise, particularly in Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. She values ongoing professional development and staying current with the latest research and techniques. Elizabeth’s practice philosophy is rooted in evidence-based practice, collaboration, and preventative care. She is fluent in English, French, and Hebrew, enabling her to communicate effectively with a diverse clientele and ensure comprehensive understanding and engagement in treatment.

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

Common Msk

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort, limited range of motion, and persistent tension in the cervical spine (neck), often related to posture, an injury, stress, or sleeping position.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Discomfort experienced in the hip region, groin, outer hip, or buttock, potentially stemming from joint inflammation (bursitis), muscle strains, tendinopathy, or conservative management of labral tears.

Vestibular Balance

• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Practical strategies, exercises, and environmental modification advice to improve your balance, prevent falls, and maintain your independence and activity levels.
• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for inner ear balance problems, involving customized exercises that promote central nervous system compensation and adaptation to the weakened vestibular input.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Resolving the spinning sensations caused by BPPV quickly and effectively through targeted canalith repositioning techniques, often providing immediate relief.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.

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

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Comprehensive care for concussion recovery, including initial assessment of symptoms (headache, dizziness, etc.), management of associated neck pain or dysfunction, vestibular and oculomotor (eye movement) rehabilitation, and guided, gradual return-to-learn, work, and sport protocols.
• 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.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Customized exercise-based programs (e.g., gaze stabilization, habituation, balance retraining exercises) prescribed by a trained Vestibular Physiotherapist to reduce vestibular symptoms, improve functional balance, decrease fall risk, and enhance confidence in movement.
• Rehabilitation for Age-Related Deconditioning & Loss of Autonomy: Rehabilitation focused on reversing the effects of deconditioning, combating frailty, and restoring autonomy for seniors, enabling them to live more fully.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Geriatric Physiotherapy & Seniors' Health: Tailored exercise prescription, education on safe movement, manual therapy (gentle techniques), and functional training to help seniors maintain their independence, enhance safety in their home and community, and promote active and healthy aging.

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 CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation, 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:

• If recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) is preventing you from fully enjoying playing in your competitive volleyball league again, Elizabeth offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Tired of feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be interfering with working on detailed woodworking projects in your shop without hand pain? Elizabeth uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions) and regain your freedom of movement.
• It's truly rewarding for Elizabeth to witness patients conquer persistent dizziness that isn’t a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady and experience much better balance overall, reducing the risk of stumbles or falls. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching your back again.

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

Elizabeth practices at CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation, situated in the Chomedey East neighborhood of Laval. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near the major East-West commercial corridor and is easily accessible via the Société de transport de Laval (STL). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn’t settle down within a day or two, please call us. Elizabeth would want to know so she can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

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 required to see a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans do require one for reimbursement purposes. It’s advisable to verify your insurance policy’s specific requirements before your first appointment.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

It’s recommended to wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and provides easy access for your physiotherapist to examine the body part being assessed or treated. For instance, if you have a knee problem, please wear or bring shorts. For shoulder issues, a sleeveless top or a top with loose armholes is often helpful. The goal is to make the assessment and treatment as effective as possible.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiothérapeute will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private outpatient physiotherapy is typically not reimbursed by RAMQ. It’s recommended to check your private insurance coverage for physiotherapy services.

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

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

Does CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, and others. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to facilitate the billing process. If direct billing is not available for a particular insurer, we provide official receipts that you can submit for reimbursement. It’s advisable to confirm your insurance coverage and any applicable limits or requirements directly with your insurer, as plans vary and you are responsible for any out-of-pocket expenses.

CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation
3205, Place Alton-Goldbloom
Laval, QC H7V 1R2

Phone: (450) 688-9550

Elizabeth Dannenbaum 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.