Julia Lipari-Couture – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Julia Lipari-Couture is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at CIRQUE DU SOLEIL in Montréal, QC. Julia is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each individual, ensuring optimal recovery and performance enhancement.

Julia's physiotherapy focus encompasses a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. She specializes in helping adult patients regain strength, mobility, and functional independence through evidence-based techniques tailored to active lifestyles and performance goals.

With a strong foundation in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, Julia completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing professional development. She is passionate about empowering her patients through education, promoting preventative care, and fostering long-term wellness. Julia is fluent in French and English, facilitating clear communication and personalized care for a diverse client base.

Julia Lipari-Couture provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.
• 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.

Common Msk

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Discomfort felt around the shoulder blade, at the top of the shoulder, or radiating down the arm, making simple tasks challenging.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.

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

• 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): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.

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

• The path to recovery from knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run and achieving feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries for pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty often starts with expert guidance. Julia, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• The journey to a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being when faced with persistent loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury is made smoother and more effective with Julia's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like comfortably cooking and meal prepping for your family.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Julia's clinic, common concerns like facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like taking long photography walks to capture nature or cityscapes.

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

Julia practices at CIRQUE DU SOLEIL, situated within a modern clinic in the central Montréal neighborhood of Montréal. This private facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring easy travel for those using buses or metro services. 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 typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance for these services. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer substantial coverage for physiotherapy in private clinics.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make diagnoses, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures with additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) focused on technical application, playing a vital role in implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress under supervision.

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 (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your appointment.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to improving movement, function, and overall well-being. A Physiothérapeute uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to diagnose and treat injuries, pain, and physical impairments. It can help reduce pain, increase mobility, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance quality of life.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

No, physiotherapy should not be painful. Some discomfort or a stretching sensation may occur during treatment, especially in the early stages of injury recovery, but it should not cause distress. Julia will tailor treatments to ensure your comfort and safety, aiming to make you feel better, not worse.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your first appointment involves a comprehensive assessment, including discussion of your medical history and current symptoms, followed by a physical examination. Julia will evaluate your range of motion, strength, posture, and movement patterns, then provide a diagnosis or clinical impression. A personalized treatment plan will be discussed, often including initial treatment or education to start your recovery.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a tailored home exercise program is an essential part of physiotherapy. Julia will prescribe specific exercises to support your recovery, improve function, and prevent future issues. Active participation in your home program enhances treatment outcomes and empowers you to manage your health effectively.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
8400, 2e Avenue
Montréal, QC H1Z 4M6

Phone: (514) 591-9340

Julia Lipari-Couture 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.