Filomena Pietrangelo – Physiotherapist | Laval, QC

Filomena Pietrangelo is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation in Laval, QC, Filomena is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her practice specializes in providing tailored physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents, addressing a wide range of developmental, orthopedic, and neurological conditions. Filomena's approach emphasizes early intervention and family-centered care to promote optimal motor development and participation in daily activities for her young patients.
With a solid educational background and extensive clinical experience, Filomena has developed a keen interest and expertise in pediatric physiotherapy. She continuously updates her skills through ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices, ensuring her treatments are current and effective. Her compassionate approach fosters a supportive environment where children and their families feel empowered and involved in the therapeutic process.
Filomena’s practice philosophy centers on empowering her young patients and their families through clear education about conditions and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. She promotes preventative care and long-term wellness, encouraging proactive physiotherapy to support healthy development and prevent future issues. Filomena is fluent in English and French, enabling her to communicate effectively with diverse families and ensure understanding throughout the treatment journey.

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

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): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

Developmental

• Coordination Challenges / Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) - Supportive Physiotherapy: Enhancing motor competence, body awareness, and confidence in children with coordination issues through fun and engaging physiotherapy activities tailored to their specific challenges and goals.

Sports Injury

• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): Tiny cracks or severe bruising within a bone caused by repetitive force, overuse, or cumulative stress, common in weight-bearing bones of the lower leg (tibia, fibula), foot (metatarsals, navicular), or hip in athletes involved in high-impact sports.
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): A common cause of lateral knee pain in athletes, often linked to training errors, muscle imbalances (e.g., weak hip abductors), or poor biomechanics, which physiotherapy aims to address.
• Muscle Strains (e.g., Hamstring, Calf, Groin, Quadriceps, Rotator Cuff): Tearing of muscle fibers or the muscle-tendon unit due to overstretching, sudden forceful contraction, or eccentric loading during athletic activity or exertion, commonly known as a 'pulled muscle'.

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

• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Filomena. 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. Filomena frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Living with persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady doesn't have to be your norm. Filomena applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches.
• At Filomena's physiotherapy practice, individuals with my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly) are guided towards feeling more like their 'old self' before their injury or condition began. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as resuming your weightlifting routine at the gym safely.
• Physiotherapy with Filomena can be a transformative turning point for those affected by a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns). The shared goal is achieving restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks, paving the way for you to enjoy participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf and a more active, vibrant life.

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

Filomena practices at the CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation, situated in the Chomedey East neighborhood of Laval. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near the Commercial Corridor and is accessible via the Société de transport de Laval (STL). The clinic is wheelchair accessible, and free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to attend physiotherapy, certain private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance provider before your first appointment.

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 use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. For most outpatient physiotherapy services, private insurance or personal payment are the primary options. It is recommended to check your eligibility with RAMQ and review your private insurance plans for coverage details.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is an integral part of most physiotherapy treatments. Filomena will prescribe exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises help manage symptoms, accelerate recovery, and empower you for long-term self-care. Active participation in your home program is key to achieving optimal results.

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

Many private insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for physiotherapy services. It is recommended to contact your insurer before your first visit to understand your plan's specifics, including annual maximums, per-visit limits, co-payments, and whether a doctor's referral is required. If the clinic offers direct billing and your plan permits, the clinic can bill your insurer directly, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. Please bring your insurance information to your appointment.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and perform certain restricted procedures. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises without diagnosing or independently planning treatments. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The initial appointment is primarily an assessment involving discussion of your medical history, followed by physical tests to evaluate movement, strength, and areas of concern. The goal is to develop a tailored treatment plan. You may also receive your first exercises or some initial hands-on care to start your recovery.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

The first session usually lasts around an hour, allowing for a comprehensive assessment and goal setting. Follow-up visits are typically 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your needs. Your physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate length for your treatment.

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

Phone: (450) 688-9550

Filomena Pietrangelo 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.