Geneviève Hénault – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Geneviève Hénault is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Centre de Réadaptation Marie-Enfant du CH Ste-Justine in Montréal, QC, Geneviève is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her role involves providing specialized physiotherapy services tailored to the unique needs of infants, children, and adolescents, addressing developmental delays, congenital conditions such as torticollis, orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and promoting optimal motor function and participation. Her approach emphasizes early intervention and comprehensive assessment to support children’s growth, development, and overall well-being.

Geneviève’s expertise extends to assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. She works closely with families, caregivers, and interdisciplinary teams to develop personalized treatment plans that foster independence and support developmental milestones. Her compassionate approach ensures that each child receives attentive, evidence-based care focused on achieving meaningful outcomes.

With a strong foundation in clinical practice and ongoing professional development, Geneviève has cultivated skills and a particular interest in Pediatric Physiotherapy and Neurological Physiotherapy. She is dedicated to evidence-based practice, integrating the latest research into her treatments. Fluent in both English and French, Geneviève ensures clear communication and collaboration with diverse families and healthcare providers to facilitate effective therapy and optimal results for her patients.

Geneviève Hénault 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): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.

Sports Injury

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): A common overuse injury in active individuals and athletes, sometimes referred to as 'runner's knee' or 'anterior knee pain', often related to biomechanical issues in how the kneecap tracks.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue (periosteum) around the tibia, which requires rest, activity modification, and specific physiotherapy interventions for recovery.
• 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): Damage to muscle tissue that can range from minor micro-tears to more significant partial or complete tears, impacting strength, power, and range of motion.

Developmental

• Coordination Challenges / Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) - Supportive Physiotherapy: Supportive physiotherapy care and activity-based interventions to help children with 'clumsiness' or motor skill delays build confidence, improve their movement abilities, and participate more successfully in physical activities.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Geneviève 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.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Helping you overcome dizziness, vertigo, and unsteadiness with targeted vestibular exercises and strategies, enabling you to return to daily activities with greater stability and comfort.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiothérapeute to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Geneviève. 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 Centre de Réadaptation Marie-Enfant du CH Ste-Justine, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Geneviève frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Struggling with the frustration of pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard? Geneviève develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks. This is key to helping you get back to doing enduring your daily commute, whether driving or on public transit, without stiffness with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Geneviève can help you move beyond soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise. The focus is on the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.
• Many find that hip pain when I walk, climb stairs, or try to sleep on my side significantly impacts their ability to working on detailed woodworking projects in your shop without hand pain. Geneviève helps patients target a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Geneviève practices at the Centre de Réadaptation Marie-Enfant du CH Ste-Justine, located in the heart of Montréal. This public healthcare facility is situated within a clinic in the central Montréal neighborhood, offering convenient access for families and patients. The location is well-connected via public transit routes, making it easy to reach from various parts of the city. The facility is surrounded by local community services and pharmacies, providing comprehensive support for patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly through a process known as direct access, without requiring a physician's referral. However, while a referral is not legally necessary to see a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your appointment.

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, which grants them the autonomy to assess patients, establish diagnoses, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They are also qualified to perform certain advanced procedures if they hold additional certifications. Conversely, a Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They assist in implementing treatment plans, guiding exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising physiotherapist or physician.

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

Some temporary soreness or discomfort following physiotherapy is normal, similar to the sensation after a workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new symptoms, or if discomfort persists beyond a few days, please contact us promptly. Your Physiothérapeute will want to evaluate your condition and may adjust your treatment plan accordingly. Open communication is essential for safe and effective recovery.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

To facilitate your first appointment, consider bringing your health card, any relevant referral letters, results of imaging tests (X-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds), a list of medications, and your private insurance information (such as your extended health benefits card or policy number) for direct billing. Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the areas to be treated is recommended.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy encompasses hands-on techniques used by Physiothérapeutes to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, relax tight muscles, and enhance nerve mobility. Common methods include joint mobilizations, soft tissue massage, sustained pressures, and joint manipulations when appropriate. These techniques are integral to restoring optimal movement and reducing discomfort.

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 typically pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. However, care received within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered under specific circumstances, such as certain chronic conditions or post-hospitalization. It is important to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and consult your private insurer to understand your coverage options.

Centre de Réadaptation Marie-Enfant du CH Ste-Justine
5200, Rue Bélanger E
Montréal, QC H1T 1C9

Phone: (514) 374-1710

Geneviève Hénault 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.