Jessica Nicolas – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Jessica Nicolas is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Hôpital Santa Cabrini (CIUSSS de l'Est de l'Ile de Montréal) in Montréal, QC, Jessica is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes a performance and athletic-oriented philosophy, helping active individuals regain their strength, mobility, and functional independence after neurological events or injuries. Jessica’s tailored treatment plans are designed to optimize recovery, reduce symptoms, and facilitate participation in sports, daily activities, and recreational pursuits, ensuring her patients return to their peak physical condition.
Jessica specializes in assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life following neurological conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson’s Disease. In addition to her neurological focus, she addresses a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including acute injuries like sprains and strains, chronic pain management, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Her expertise extends into sports injury recovery, performance enhancement, and injury prevention, making her a vital resource for athletes and active clients seeking to maintain or elevate their physical capabilities.
With a comprehensive educational background and ongoing professional development, Jessica has developed a particular interest in neurological and orthopedic physiotherapy. She completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that underscores her commitment to evidence-based practice. Jessica’s practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Montréal community through proactive physiotherapy. She empowers her patients with clear education, practical self-management strategies, and personalized care plans. Fluent in French, Haitian Creole, Spanish, English, and Italian, Jessica effectively communicates with diverse populations, ensuring accessible and effective treatment for all her patients.

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

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Helping you live well with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies through targeted physiotherapy interventions designed to manage symptoms, preserve function, and promote overall well-being.
• 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.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Helping you regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve function in affected joints after a gout episode, as part of your overall gout management plan.

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Physiotherapy to help you regain optimal use of your hand and wrist after an injury, surgery, or due to a chronic condition, enabling you to return to work, hobbies, and daily tasks.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.

Post Surgical

• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Comprehensive post-operative recovery guidance following knee replacement, including exercises, manual therapy, and education to ensure you achieve your best possible function.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): A progressive rehabilitation program after surgery to fix a broken bone, helping you regain full use of your arm or leg and return to your normal activities.

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

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• 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.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Jessica. 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 Hôpital Santa Cabrini (CIUSSS de l'Est de l'Ile de Montréal), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Jessica frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Living with persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady doesn't have to be your norm. Jessica applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips.
• If my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking is preventing you from fully enjoying dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations, Jessica offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Patients struggling with feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort can find dedicated and compassionate support from Jessica. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as getting back to golfing 18 holes without your back acting up.

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

Jessica practices at Hôpital Santa Cabrini (CIUSSS de l'Est de l'Ile de Montréal), situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies and is accessible via multiple public transit routes. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can also perform certain advanced procedures if they have the required additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They play a crucial role in delivering care by implementing treatment plans designed by a physiotherapist or physician, assisting patients with their exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising professional.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of physiotherapy sessions required varies greatly from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of your condition, how long you've had the issue (acute vs. chronic), your individual treatment goals, your body's unique response to therapy, and how consistently you are able to follow your prescribed home exercise program and self-management advice. Your Physiothérapeute will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated duration after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiothérapeute can properly examine and treat the area.

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 of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiothérapeute has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

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

Most physiotherapy services in private clinics are not directly covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received at public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered under specific conditions. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for coverage details.

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

To ensure a smooth first visit, please bring your health card, any relevant medical reports or imaging results, a list of medications, and your insurance information for billing purposes. Wearing comfortable clothes that allow easy access to the treated area is recommended.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy before your appointment.

Hôpital Santa Cabrini (CIUSSS de l'Est de l'Ile de Montréal)
5655, Rue Saint-Zotique E
Montréal, QC H1T 1P7

Phone: (514) 252-6000

Jessica Nicolas 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.