Émilie Bigras – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Émilie Bigras is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CHU Sainte-Justine / CR Marie-Enfant in Montréal, QC, Émilie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each patient. Émilie’s goal is to facilitate recovery, improve mobility, and optimize functional independence for individuals facing neurological challenges.

Émilie’s physiotherapy practice encompasses assisting individuals in recovering function, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson’s Disease. In addition, she addresses a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including acute injuries like sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Her services are inclusive of pediatric populations, providing specialized care for children of all ages, from infants to adolescents, ensuring early intervention and tailored strategies for young patients.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy education, Émilie completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing professional development. She maintains a commitment to evidence-based practices, honing her skills in areas such as neurological physiotherapy and orthopedic and musculoskeletal rehabilitation. Her practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care, fostering long-term wellness, and actively involving patients in their treatment goals. Émilie is fluent in French and English, facilitating clear communication and personalized care for a diverse patient population.

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

Common Msk

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Common injuries in active individuals, athletes, or resulting from accidents, leading to localized pain, swelling, bruising, and weakness in the affected muscle (e.g., hamstring, calf, quadriceps, groin, rotator cuff).

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach for individuals recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury, guiding a safe and gradual return to school, work, and sport activities.

Post Surgical

• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Comprehensive physiotherapy for knee ligament injuries post-operatively, focusing on restoring full knee function, power, and agility to meet your specific athletic or lifestyle demands.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Supportive physiotherapy to aid your recovery and help you manage symptoms after back or neck surgery, focusing on education, safe movement strategies, and specific exercises.
• 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-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Guidance on hip precautions (if applicable for your surgical approach), a progressive exercise program, and functional retraining after hip surgery to help you achieve your goals.

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

• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Helping you stay steady on your feet and maintain your independence through targeted balance and coordination exercises, and practical fall prevention education.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Émilie. 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 CHU Sainte-Justine / CR Marie-Enfant, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Émilie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many individuals seek help from Émilie, their physiotherapist, when pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like running your usual 5k route without knee pain.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult? Émilie works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun.
• With Émilie's help, managing difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain to achieve feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back.

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

Émilie's practice is situated within CHU Sainte-Justine / CR Marie-Enfant, a prominent public healthcare facility located in the central Montréal neighborhood. This accessible clinic is conveniently positioned near various community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to combine their appointments with other errands or healthcare needs. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring straightforward access for those relying on buses and metro services. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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. Your Physiothérapeute would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can also perform certain advanced procedures if they have the required additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They play a crucial role in delivering care by implementing treatment plans designed by a physiotherapist or physician, assisting patients with their exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising professional.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiothérapeute can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiothérapeute will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at CHU Sainte-Justine / CR Marie-Enfant treat?

Émilie treats a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain (Neck Pain and Stiffness), joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries (like Muscle Strains (e.g., Hamstring, Calf, Groin, Quadriceps, Rotator Cuff)), and nerve pain. She also specializes in neurological conditions such as stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson’s Disease. Treatments often involve manual therapy, patient education, and tailored exercise programs to help patients achieve their functional goals.

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, under the concept of direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify with your insurance provider prior to your appointment to ensure coverage and streamline your care process.

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Care received within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if specific criteria are met. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and review your private insurance plans for coverage details.

CHU Sainte-Justine / CR Marie-Enfant
3175, Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine
Montréal, QC H3T 1C5

Phone: (514) 345-4931

Émilie Bigras 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.