Étienne Fortin – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Étienne Fortin is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Kinatex Tour Jacques-Cartier in Montréal, QC. Étienne 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). His approach focuses on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including issues related to muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. This encompasses everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Additionally, Étienne offers specialized assessment and treatment for jaw pain (TMJ/TMD), orofacial pain, and various headaches (e.g., cervicogenic, tension-type) that have a musculoskeletal component, ensuring a holistic approach tailored to each patient’s needs.

Étienne completed his degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated valuable clinical experience, which he continuously enhances through ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. His skills and interests include Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as TMJ, Headache, and Orofacial Pain Physiotherapy. Étienne’s dedication to his craft is driven by a genuine desire to help his patients regain their mobility, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life. His compassionate and attentive approach ensures that each individual feels supported and actively involved in their recovery journey.

With a strong philosophy rooted in evidence-based practice and continuous learning, Étienne emphasizes a collaborative and patient-centered approach. He works closely with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that respect their unique goals and circumstances. Étienne is fluent in both French and English, which allows him to communicate effectively and empathetically with a diverse range of patients, fostering an environment of trust and understanding throughout the rehabilitation process.

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

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): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.

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-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Comprehensive shoulder rehabilitation after surgical intervention, following surgeon-specific protocols, to ensure optimal healing, manage pain and swelling, and restore your arm's functional capacity.

Common Msk

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Aching, burning, sharp pain, or a 'pins and needles' sensation in the wrist, thumb, or hand region, sometimes waking you at night.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.

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

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Étienne. 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 Kinatex Tour Jacques-Cartier, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Étienne frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients often come to Étienne feeling defeated by one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving being able to travel more comfortably and with less planning around physical limitations and resuming participating in community events and social gatherings more actively becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Tired of sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica interfering with standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event? Étienne uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction and regain your freedom of movement.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke and achieved achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach under the skilled care of Étienne. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as cycling longer distances with your cycling club with a new lease on life.

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

Étienne practices at Kinatex Tour Jacques-Cartier, situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located in a modern facility close to local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is well-served by local public transit routes, ensuring a smooth journey for those using Montréal's transit system. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiothérapeute to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

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.

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. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance plans. However, some services provided within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if specific criteria are met. It is important to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and 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 in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, enabling them to assess patients, make diagnoses, and develop treatment plans independently. They may perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and assists physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, helping with exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, which is known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

Kinatex Tour Jacques-Cartier
1851, Rue Sherbrooke E, suite 401, Tour Jacques-Cartier
Montréal, QC H2K 4L5

Phone: (514) 548-2686

Étienne Fortin 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.