Hélène Brière – Physiotherapist | Laval, QC

Hélène Brière is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Action Sport Physio (Laval) in Laval, QC, Hélène is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach emphasizes comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment plans aimed at restoring optimal function and reducing pain for her patients. Hélène’s practice is rooted in evidence-based physiotherapy principles, ensuring that each patient receives effective and safe interventions tailored to their unique needs.

Hélène's physiotherapy expertise encompasses addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and pediatric conditions. She provides specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to manage developmental delays, congenital conditions such as torticollis, orthopedic injuries, and neurological disorders. Her focus extends to patients of all ages, from infants and young children through to adults and seniors, ensuring holistic care that promotes mobility, participation, and quality of life across the lifespan.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Hélène has developed skills and a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Pediatric Physiotherapy. She is dedicated to empowering her patients through education, practical self-management strategies, and a collaborative approach. Fluent in both English and French, Hélène ensures clear communication and compassionate care for her diverse patient population.

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

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.

Common Msk

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort, limited range of motion, and persistent tension in the cervical spine (neck), often related to posture, an injury, stress, or sleeping position.

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.

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

• 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.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Tailored exercises, hands-on techniques, and functional strategies to manage symptoms (e.g., spasticity, weakness, ataxia) and optimize function in various neurological conditions, promoting participation in daily life.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Hélène. 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 Action Sport Physio (Laval), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Hélène frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Are you finding that that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work stops you from enjoying setting up and taking down equipment for hobbies or sports? Hélène is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Tired of my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking interfering with reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches? Hélène uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery and regain your freedom of movement.
• Hélène frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like keeping up with your team during our weekly soccer match.

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

Hélène practices at Action Sport Physio in Laval, situated in the Chomedey West neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Place Bell (Arena/Theatre) and is easily accessible via Société de transport de Laval (STL). The facility is designed to be accessible for all patients, with wheelchair accessibility features. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby, making your visit as convenient as possible.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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.

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

In Quebec, most physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if specific criteria are met. It is recommended to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for coverage details.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments usually last between 45 and 60 minutes to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion. Follow-up sessions are generally shorter, ranging from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your needs and the treatment plan.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services through direct access, meaning a referral from a physician is not required to see a Physiothérapeute. However, some private insurance plans may require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment.

Action Sport Physio (Laval)
1695, Boulevard Laval, bureau 300
Laval, QC H7S 2M2

Phone: (450) 975-8533 | Website: https://actionsportphysio.com/fr/clinique-physiotherapie-laval

Hélène Brière 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.