Joanna Paquet-Leopold – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Joanna Paquet-Leopold is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Hôpital de réadaptation Villa Médica in Montréal, QC, Joanna is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her practice is centered on helping individuals recover function, improve mobility, and manage neurological symptoms to enhance their overall quality of life. Joanna’s approach is compassionate and evidence-based, ensuring that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs and goals.
Joanna's role involves assisting adults and seniors who face challenges stemming from neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, brain injury, or spinal cord injury. She employs a comprehensive range of physiotherapy techniques designed to stimulate neuroplasticity, promote motor learning, and facilitate functional recovery. Her focus is not only on symptom management but also on empowering her patients with strategies to regain independence and participate actively in their daily routines. With her expertise, Joanna aims to support her patients through every stage of their rehabilitation journey, fostering resilience and long-term wellness.
With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Joanna completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has cultivated a particular interest in neurological rehabilitation. She continuously updates her skills to incorporate the latest evidence-based practices. Joanna’s practice philosophy emphasizes a collaborative, patient-centered approach, actively involving her patients in goal setting and treatment planning. She believes in promoting preventative care and long-term wellness within the Montréal community. Joanna is fluent in German, English, French, and Polish, enabling her to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations and provide culturally sensitive care.

Joanna Paquet-Leopold 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.

Common Msk

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Common injuries in active individuals, athletes, or resulting from accidents, leading to localized pain, swelling, bruising, and weakness in the affected muscle (e.g., hamstring, calf, quadriceps, groin, rotator cuff).
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.

Neurological

• 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.
• 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).

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Joanna 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): Evidence-based neurological rehabilitation focused on harnessing neuroplasticity, motor learning principles, and task-specific training to help regain lost skills and adapt to new ways of moving.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• 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.
• 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.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Specialized assessment and treatment techniques, such as canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - BPPV), to address symptoms of dizziness, vertigo (spinning sensations), and imbalance caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction.

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

• Joanna believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If feeling like my joints are just 'wearing out' and getting harder to move is hindering your ability to participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf, a personalized plan focusing on a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being can make all the difference.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Joanna's clinic, common concerns like my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.
• With Joanna's help, managing loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury to achieve greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache.

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

Joanna practices at the Hôpital de réadaptation Villa Médica, situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easily accessible for patients. The hospital is well-connected by public transit routes, providing convenient access for those using buses and metro services. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiothérapeute would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiothérapeute will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

It varies depending on the specific circumstances. AHCIP provides limited coverage for some physiotherapy services, typically after hospital discharge or for specific low-income individuals/seniors through particular programs. Most outpatient private clinic physiotherapy is not directly covered by AHCIP for the general population. BC's MSP offers partial coverage for a limited number of physiotherapy visits, primarily for eligible low-income individuals. In Ontario, OHIP generally does not cover private outpatient physiotherapy, though some publicly funded physiotherapy is available for specific groups or situations. In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services in private clinics; patients usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. It is strongly recommended to verify your specific eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans, as many offer substantial physiotherapy coverage.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) directly without a physician's referral, known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to consult a physiotherapist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the requirements of your insurance plan before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

Hôpital de réadaptation Villa Médica
225, Rue Sherbrooke E
Montréal, QC H2X 1C9

Phone: (514) 288-8201

Joanna Paquet-Leopold 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.