Francois Lanthier – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Francois Lanthier is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CIUSSS CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL in Montréal, QC, Francois is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). With a compassionate approach, Francois strives to support his patients through personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs, empowering them to restore function, improve mobility, and enhance their quality of life after neurological events or conditions.
Francois's role as a specialized neurologically focused physiothérapeute involves assisting individuals in recovering function, managing symptoms, and regaining independence following strokes, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson’s Disease. He adopts a holistic perspective, recognizing the importance of addressing the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of recovery. Francois's approach emphasizes patience, education, and collaboration, ensuring each patient feels supported and confident throughout their rehabilitation journey.
With a strong foundation in evidence-based practices, Francois has completed his degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels his ongoing professional development. He has developed particular expertise in neurological and geriatric physiotherapy, focusing on the health needs of older adults and those with complex neurological conditions. Francois is fluent in English, French, and Spanish, enabling him to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population and foster a welcoming environment for all his clients.

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

Neurological

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurorehabilitation provided by a Physiothérapeute to support functional recovery, improve independence in daily activities, and facilitate community reintegration after a head injury.
• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy for weakness or paralysis of facial muscles, often affecting one side of the face (e.g., Bell's Palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, post-surgical facial nerve injury).

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 ('brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

Vestibular Balance

• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): Addressing chronic subjective dizziness and unsteadiness through targeted rehabilitation designed to reduce symptoms and improve functional abilities for individuals with PPPD/3PD.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Effective, non-invasive treatment for positional dizziness and vertigo using specific head and body movements performed by a trained Vestibular Physiothérapeute.
• 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.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Physiotherapy aimed at improving your balance, coordination, lower limb strength, reaction time, and confidence to reduce your risk of falling and enhance safe mobility in your home and community.

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

• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Convenient access to expert physiotherapy services from the comfort of your home, office, or any location with an internet connection, ideal for those with busy schedules, living in remote areas, or preferring virtual care.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): In-home rehabilitation programs tailored to your living space and functional needs, helping you regain independence with daily activities, manage pain, and improve mobility where you live.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Comprehensive assessment of your fall risk factors with individualized interventions, including balance exercises, strength training, gait re-training, and home safety advice to help you prevent falls.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Francois. 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 CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Francois frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Francois believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees is hindering your ability to taking energetic, long walks with your dog every day, a personalized plan focusing on implementing practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life can make all the difference.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Francois can help you move beyond one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain. The focus is on a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as getting back to golfing 18 holes without your back acting up.
• The path to recovery from aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk and achieving improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain for tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence often starts with expert guidance. Francois, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Francois practices at CIUSSS CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL, situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is well-connected by local public transit routes, ensuring easy travel for those using buses or metro. 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.

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

In Quebec, the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. However, some coverage might be available for specific cases, such as post-hospitalization or through certain programs for seniors or low-income individuals. It’s important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and review your private extended health insurance plans, as many offer substantial physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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.

What are CIUSSS CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office at (514) 527-4527 or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

How can I book an appointment at CIUSSS CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (514) 527-4527 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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, a process known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans or extended health coverage may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm their specific requirements.

CIUSSS CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL
155, Boulevard Saint-Joseph E
Montréal, QC H2T 1H4

Phone: (514) 527-4527

Francois Lanthier 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.