Hugo Masse-Alarie – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Hugo Masse-Alarie is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Faculté de médecine, Univ. Laval/ École des sciences de la réadaptation in Québec, QC, Hugo is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Hugo’s role involves addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to managing chronic pain, arthritis, and providing comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Hugo employs a comprehensive, biopsychosocial approach to help individuals understand and manage persistent pain, focusing on improving daily function, quality of life, and self-efficacy through education, graded exercise, pacing strategies, and other supportive therapies.

With a solid educational background and clinical experience, Hugo Masse-Alarie completed their degree in Physiotherapy. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development and adheres to evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Hugo has developed skills and a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Chronic Pain Management & Rehabilitation, allowing him to offer specialized and effective care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Hugo’s practice philosophy emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. He promotes preventative care and long-term wellness within the Québec community through proactive physiotherapy strategies. His patient-centered approach actively involves individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting, ensuring personalized and empowering care. Hugo is fluent in English and French, facilitating clear communication and comfort for diverse patient populations.

Hugo Masse-Alarie provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Chronic Pain

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) - Supportive Care: Gentle, carefully progressed, and specialized physiotherapy to help manage the challenging symptoms of CRPS and improve functional abilities.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) - Activity Management: Physiotherapy support for individuals with CFS/ME, focusing on developing personalized pacing strategies, energy conservation techniques, gentle mobility exercises (within energy limits), and education on symptom management to improve daily function and overall quality of life while respecting the illness's limitations.
• Persistent Post-Surgical Pain (Chronic): Physiotherapy for managing pain that lingers long after surgical recovery, employing strategies such as graded motor imagery, desensitization techniques, specific exercises, manual therapy (if appropriate), and pain education to address complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or other chronic post-operative pain states.

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Physiotherapy to address residual joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and functional loss after an acute gout attack has subsided, or to help manage musculoskeletal impairments and tophi-related issues associated with chronic gout, always in conjunction with appropriate medical management for urate control.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Helping to manage the musculoskeletal aspects of psoriatic disease, working in conjunction with medical management to optimize your physical function and comfort.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.

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

• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Helping you manage fibromyalgia symptoms through targeted exercise, education on pain mechanisms, and self-care strategies to improve daily function and overall quality of life.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.
• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: A holistic and active approach to managing long-standing pain, empowering you with tools and knowledge for better daily living, increased activity tolerance, and improved mood.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Hugo. 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 Faculté de médecine, Univ. Laval/ École des sciences de la réadaptation, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Hugo frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• It's truly rewarding for Hugo to witness patients conquer that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit and experience enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in challenging myself with indoor or outdoor rock climbing again.
• Many individuals seek help from Hugo, their physiotherapist, when a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury? Hugo works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as taking group exercise classes at the community center.

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

Hugo practices at the 'Faculté de médecine, Univ. Laval/ École des sciences de la réadaptation', situated in a clinic in the central Québec neighborhood of Québec. This private facility, part of a Maison d'enseignement, offers a welcoming environment dedicated to patient care and rehabilitation. Its convenient location near local community services and pharmacies ensures easy access for residents. The clinic is accessible via local public transit routes, making it simple for patients to attend appointments. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 extended health insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private clinic services usually are not. It is important for patients to verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and check their private insurance plans for coverage details.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This varies depending on individual needs. After your initial comprehensive assessment, Hugo will provide an estimate of the number of sessions and frequency required to meet your goals. Regular progress reviews will ensure your treatment plan adapts to your evolving needs, optimizing your recovery.

Does Faculté de médecine, Univ. Laval/ École des sciences de la réadaptation offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, our clinic offers direct billing for most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, and others. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Confirm your coverage with your insurer, including any limits or deductibles, as plans vary. If direct billing is not available for your plan, Hugo will provide official receipts for you to submit for reimbursement.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The initial session involves a thorough assessment. Hugo will discuss your history, current concerns, and goals. He will then perform physical tests to evaluate your movement, strength, and areas of concern. This visit aims to establish an accurate understanding of your condition, allowing the development of a personalized treatment plan. You may also receive your first exercises or hands-on care to begin your recovery.

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

No, in Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check 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, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and assists physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, helping with exercises, and reporting progress, under supervision.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, most patients receive a tailored home exercise program to support their recovery. Performing these exercises as instructed enhances progress and helps maintain improvements achieved during clinic visits.

Faculté de médecine, Univ. Laval/ École des sciences de la réadaptation
1050, Avenue de la Médecine, # 2463, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry
Québec, QC G1V 0A6

Phone: (418) 656-2131

Hugo Masse-Alarie 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.