Jadranka Spahija – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Jadranka Spahija is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Université McGill / École de physiothérapie & ergothérapie in Montréal, QC, Jadranka is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes performance optimization, helping active individuals recover from neurological events and enhance their athletic and daily functioning. With a focus on assisting clients in regaining mobility, managing symptoms, and achieving their peak physical potential, Jadranka tailors each treatment plan to support your specific goals and lifestyle.
In her role, Jadranka specializes in neurological physiotherapy, working with patients recovering from stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson’s Disease. She employs evidence-based techniques such as manual therapy, exercise prescription, and functional retraining to maximize recovery and independence. Additionally, her expertise extends to managing acute and chronic cardiorespiratory conditions like COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, and post-COVID symptoms. Her holistic approach includes breathing exercises, airway clearance, and education to empower patients in their journey toward improved health and performance.
Jadranka’s practice philosophy centers on continuous professional development, collaborative patient engagement, and empowering individuals through education and practical self-management strategies. She believes that active participation and understanding are vital for sustainable progress and lasting results. Fluent in English, French, Croatian, and Polish, Jadranka fosters effective communication and trust with a diverse clientele, ensuring a supportive environment for performance-driven rehabilitation.

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

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach for individuals recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury, guiding a safe and gradual return to school, work, and sport activities.

Neurological

• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Gentle exercises, stretching programs, and strategies to preserve strength and function, and to manage secondary complications associated with muscular dystrophies.
• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy for weakness or paralysis of facial muscles, often affecting one side of the face (e.g., Bell's Palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, post-surgical facial nerve injury).
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Specialized neurorehabilitation programs designed by a Physiotherapist to improve physical function, optimize movement potential, and enhance quality of life for individuals living with an SCI.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy support for the physical challenges of Multiple Sclerosis, focusing on maximizing mobility, safety, and participation in daily life.

Long Covid

• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Symptom Management: Tailored physiotherapy rehabilitation programs focusing on symptom-guided activity management (pacing), gentle graded exercise (carefully monitored to avoid post-exertional malaise - PEM), breathing retraining exercises, strategies for fatigue and 'brain fog', and functional retraining to help individuals manage the debilitating effects of Long COVID.

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

• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Comprehensive physiotherapy programs designed to maximize quality of life and functional abilities for individuals with conditions like stroke (CVA), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, traumatic or acquired brain injury (TBI/ABI), or incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI).
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Convenient and effective physiotherapy care delivered in your home by a qualified Physiotherapist, focusing on your specific goals and challenges.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Jadranka. 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 Université McGill / École de physiothérapie & ergothérapie, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Jadranka frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Jadranka believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk is hindering your ability to tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence, a personalized plan focusing on feeling more stable and confident on their feet, especially on uneven surfaces can make all the difference.
• The journey to the ability to manage symptoms independently if they occasionally recur when faced with persistent my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night is made smoother and more effective with Jadranka's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and dexterity with ease.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain? Jadranka works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of improved hand and wrist function for tasks requiring dexterity. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort.

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

Jadranka practices at the Université McGill / École de physiothérapie & ergothérapie, situated in a centrally located clinic in the vibrant Montréal neighborhood. This Maison d'enseignement (public institution) provides a professional environment dedicated to health sciences education and patient care. The facility is conveniently situated near local community services, pharmacies, and public transit routes, making access straightforward for most patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. While a referral is not legally required to initiate physiotherapy treatment, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy beforehand to ensure coverage and reimbursement eligibility.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at Université McGill / École de physiothérapie & ergothérapie treat?

Jadranka's team treats a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues like back and neck pain, joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, nerve pain, and developmental delays. Their focus areas include neurological physiotherapy for stroke, MS, Parkinson’s, and brain injuries, as well as cardiorespiratory therapy for conditions like COPD, asthma, and post-COVID recovery. Treatment often involves patient education, manual therapy, exercise prescription, and functional retraining to help clients achieve their performance and wellness goals.

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

If you experience a significant increase in pain, new neurological symptoms, or if soreness persists beyond 48 hours, contact Jadranka or the clinic directly. Mild soreness is common initially and usually subsides quickly. However, worsening symptoms require prompt reassessment to adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, most patients receive a customized home exercise program tailored to their specific needs and goals. Performing these exercises as instructed is crucial for maintaining progress and achieving optimal results.

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

For your initial visit, please bring your provincial health insurance card, relevant medical reports, imaging results, medication list, and insurance details if applicable. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Coverage may be available in certain public settings like hospitals or CLSCs under specific conditions. Most private outpatient physiotherapy is paid out-of-pocket or through private insurance. It is recommended to verify your coverage with RAMQ and your insurance provider before your appointment.

What is the difference between a Physiothérapeute and a Technologue en physiothérapie in Quebec?

A Physiothérapeute holds a master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnose, and create treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and assisting with exercises without independently diagnosing or planning treatments. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Université McGill / École de physiothérapie & ergothérapie
3654, Prom Sir-william-osler, # D-4
Montréal, QC H3G 1Y5

Phone: (514) 398-4992

Jadranka Spahija 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.