Isabelle Dufort – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Isabelle Dufort is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at École de réadaptation - Université de Montréal in Montréal, QC, Isabelle is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She specializes in providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Whether dealing with sports injuries, post-operative recovery, or chronic pain, Isabelle adopts a performance-oriented approach to optimize her patients' recovery and enhance their athletic performance.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy education and ongoing professional development, Isabelle continually updates her skills with evidence-based practices. Her clinical experience enables her to design targeted interventions that promote long-term wellness and prevent future injuries. She is passionate about empowering her patients through active participation in their rehabilitation, fostering a collaborative environment where goals are clearly defined and progress is meticulously tracked.

Isabelle is fluent in both English and French, ensuring effective communication with her diverse patient base. Her philosophy centers on a holistic, proactive approach that not only addresses immediate concerns but also emphasizes injury prevention and optimal performance. Her dedication to excellence and personalized care makes her a trusted partner in achieving health, wellness, and athletic excellence in the Montréal community.

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

Sports Injury

• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): Pain, typically sharp or burning, located on the outside (lateral aspect) of the knee, or sometimes the hip. Common in runners, cyclists, and other endurance athletes, caused by irritation or inflammation of the iliotibial (IT) band as it rubs over bony prominences.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Pain felt around, under, or behind the kneecap (patella), often described as a dull ache that is aggravated by activities like running, jumping, squatting, using stairs (especially going down), or prolonged sitting with the knee bent.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

Common Msk

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Pain, weakness, or restricted movement in the shoulder joint, often experienced with overhead activities, lifting, reaching behind your back, or sleeping on the affected side.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Isabelle. 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 École de réadaptation - Université de Montréal, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Isabelle frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients often come to Isabelle feeling defeated by needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving the ability to manage symptoms independently if they occasionally recur and resuming participating fully in your martial arts practice, including sparring becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• The path to recovery from persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady and achieving understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term for playing in your competitive volleyball league again often starts with expert guidance. Isabelle, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Struggling with the frustration of my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night? Isabelle develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity. This is key to helping you get back to doing going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Isabelle practices at the École de réadaptation - Université de Montréal, located in a central Montréal neighborhood. This private clinic within the Maison d'enseignement facility offers a modern, well-equipped environment dedicated to high-quality physiotherapy services for athletes and active individuals. Conveniently situated near local community services, pharmacies, and public transit routes, the clinic ensures easy accessibility for all patients. 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 usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Certain services received through public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if meeting specific criteria. Patients are advised to verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and check their private insurance plans, as many extended health plans offer coverage for physiotherapy in private settings.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration depends on your specific needs and treatment plan.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques used by a Physiothérapeute to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Techniques include joint mobilization, joint manipulation, soft tissue mobilization, and neural mobilization, all aimed at reducing pain, improving mobility, restoring joint mechanics, and supporting tissue healing.

What is the difference between a Physiothérapeute and a Physiotherapy Technologist in Quebec?

A Physiothérapeute has completed a master's level university program, enabling autonomous assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and supports physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, and applying modalities under supervision.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a doctor's referral (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 first appointment to confirm any specific requirements.

École de réadaptation - Université de Montréal
7077, Avenue du Parc
Montréal, QC H3N 1X7

Phone: (514) 343-6416 | Website: https://readaptation.umontreal.ca

Isabelle Dufort 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.