Isabelle Pearson – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Isabelle Pearson is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at UNIVERSITE MCGILL in Montréal, QC, Isabelle is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. With a focus on performance optimization and injury prevention, Isabelle provides tailored physiotherapy services to athletes and active individuals seeking to enhance their physical capabilities and recover from injuries efficiently.

Isabelle’s approach involves comprehensive assessment and evidence-based treatment strategies designed to address a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. Her expertise includes managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, chronic pain conditions, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. She specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, ensuring that her patients—from recreational to elite athletes—return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and minimize the risk of future injuries. Isabelle’s care is adapted to patients of all ages, from infants and young children to adults and seniors, recognizing the unique needs of each stage of life.

Educated in physiotherapy, Isabelle Pearson has developed a strong foundation in orthopedic and musculoskeletal physiotherapy, with a particular interest in sports physiotherapy. She is committed to ongoing professional development, staying current with the latest research and techniques to provide the most effective care. Her practice philosophy emphasizes a strong commitment to evidence-based practice, continuous learning, and empowering patients through education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Isabelle is fluent in English and French, ensuring clear communication with her diverse patient community.

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

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.
• 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.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis focuses on maintaining spinal mobility and flexibility (especially extension), improving posture, strengthening core and back muscles, managing pain, and providing education on self-management and regular exercise.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.

Sports Injury

• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Damage to ligaments that can range from mild (Grade 1 - overstretched) to moderate (Grade 2 - partial tear) to severe (Grade 3 - complete tear), impacting joint integrity and function.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): An overuse injury where the bone is unable to withstand repetitive mechanical loading, requiring a period of offloading and gradual rehabilitation guided by a physiotherapist for safe return to activity.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): An overuse injury affecting the lower leg, common in athletes, dancers, and military recruits, characterized by diffuse pain along the tibia.
• 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.

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

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Gait Analysis & Running/Walking Re-training: Helping you move better and reduce injury risk by analyzing and correcting your walking or running technique, addressing issues like overpronation, hip drop, or poor cadence.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Specialized and progressive physiotherapy care for athletes of all levels, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, sport-specific exercise, and safe, timely return-to-sport protocols.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.

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 UNIVERSITE MCGILL, 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 struggling with dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women) can find dedicated and compassionate support from Isabelle. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving the ability to manage symptoms independently if they occasionally recur, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as safely meeting the lifting requirements at your workplace.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot and achieved feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities under the skilled care of Isabelle. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as playing actively and roughhousing with your young kids or grandkids with a new lease on life.
• Isabelle believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is hindering your ability to maintaining your balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails, a personalized plan focusing on learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress can make all the difference.

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

Isabelle practices at UNIVERSITE MCGILL, situated in a modern clinic located in the central Montréal neighborhood of Montréal. This Maison d'enseignement (public education environment) facility offers a professional and welcoming setting for patients. The clinic is conveniently situated near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy to access additional healthcare resources. It is well-connected by public transit routes, providing flexible transportation options for patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

Patients in Québec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, as direct access is permitted. However, while a referral is not legally required to begin physiotherapy, some private and extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable for patients to verify the specific requirements of their insurance policies prior to their first appointment.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by the Physiothérapeute as part of a comprehensive physiotherapy plan. These techniques aim to assess and treat joints, muscles, and nerves to reduce pain and improve mobility. Examples include joint mobilizations, soft tissue release techniques, and, when appropriate, joint manipulations to restore optimal movement.

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, giving them the autonomy to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and primarily assists in implementing treatment plans, helping with exercises, and applying modalities under supervision.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ, and patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some coverage may be available through programs for specific populations or services received in public hospitals or CLSCs. It is recommended that patients verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult their private insurance plans for coverage details.

Is there parking available at or near UNIVERSITE MCGILL?

Yes, there is ample street parking available near the clinic, including metered parking on surrounding streets. Additionally, paid parking lots are located nearby, with some options within walking distance. Patients are advised to check local signage for parking restrictions and time limits.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is an integral part of most physiotherapy treatments. Isabelle will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition and goals, helping you manage symptoms between sessions, accelerate recovery, and maintain progress. Active participation in your home program is essential for achieving optimal results.

UNIVERSITE MCGILL
3630, Prom Sir-William-Osler, # 203
Montréal, QC H3G 1Y5

Phone: (514) 398-4400

Isabelle Pearson 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.