Justine Meilleur – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Justine Meilleur is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at CHU Sainte-Justine in Montréal, QC, Justine is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role involves providing specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions such as torticollis, orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and to promote optimal motor function and participation. Additionally, Justine manages acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, including COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Her approach involves breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, tailored exercise programs, and comprehensive patient education. Justine’s focus is on supporting children of all ages, from infants to 17 years, and helping them achieve their developmental and health goals in a nurturing, evidence-based environment.

Justine completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated valuable clinical experience, which she continually enhances through ongoing professional development. Her particular interests include Pediatric Physiotherapy and Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy, allowing her to offer a broad spectrum of specialized care. Her commitment to evidence-based practices ensures that her patients benefit from the latest techniques and interventions tailored to their unique needs. Justine emphasizes a holistic, collaborative approach, working closely with patients and their families to develop personalized treatment plans that foster recovery, independence, and long-term health outcomes.

Her practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear communication, education, and practical self-management strategies. Justine believes that informed patients are better equipped to participate actively in their healing process. Fluent in both French and English, Justine is adept at creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where her patients feel supported, understood, and motivated to achieve their movement and health goals.

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

Common Msk

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Neck problems that interfere with your sleep quality, ability to work comfortably (especially at a desk), or perform everyday tasks without pain.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Discomfort experienced in the hip region, groin, outer hip, or buttock, potentially stemming from joint inflammation (bursitis), muscle strains, tendinopathy, or conservative management of labral tears.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Pain, swelling, clicking, locking, or instability in or around the knee joint from various causes like ligament sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL), meniscal tears (managed conservatively), or patellofemoral (kneecap) pain.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.

Pediatric

• Developmental Delays (Gross Motor Skills): When children are not meeting age-appropriate gross motor milestones such as rolling over, sitting independently, crawling, pulling to stand, or walking within the expected timeframes.
• Toe Walking (Idiopathic / Habitual): Helping children develop a more typical and efficient walking pattern by addressing the factors contributing to persistent toe walking.

Cardioresp

• Asthma Management (Exercise-Induced & Support): Techniques and education provided by a physiotherapist for better asthma self-management, improving breathing patterns, and reducing the impact of asthma on daily life.
• Post-Cardiac Event Rehabilitation (Supportive Care, e.g., after MI or CABG): Aiding your recovery, promoting heart health, and helping you achieve an active lifestyle after a cardiac condition through a structured physiotherapy component of cardiac rehab.

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

• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.
• Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy (e.g., COPD, Asthma, Post-Pneumonia, Post-Cardiac Event Support): Specialized care for heart and lung conditions, focusing on functional improvement, symptom management, and empowering you with strategies for better respiratory and cardiac health. Also includes recovery support after pneumonia or other significant respiratory infections.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• 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.

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

• Are you finding that experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy stops you from enjoying playing your musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods? Justine is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve feeling more energetic and less weighed down by physical discomfort through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Justine believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems is hindering your ability to taking energetic, long walks with your dog every day, a personalized plan focusing on improved circulation and tissue healing can make all the difference.
• Patients struggling with dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash can find dedicated and compassionate support from Justine. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand), using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as playing in your competitive volleyball league again.

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

Justine practices at CHU Sainte-Justine, situated within a central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, ensuring easy access for patients. The clinic is accessible via multiple public transit routes, making it straightforward for families and individuals to attend appointments. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 meeting specific criteria might be covered. It is important to verify eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private extended health insurance plans for coverage options.

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

Patients in Quebec can usually see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, thanks to the province's 'direct access' policy. Nonetheless, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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, enabling autonomous assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. Conversely, a Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and assists physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, aiding exercises, and reporting progress, under supervision.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Absolutely. Physiotherapy includes assessment of movement and biomechanics to identify potential risk factors for injury or pain. A Physiothérapeute can develop personalized exercise and prevention strategies to help maintain long-term musculoskeletal health, especially for athletes or individuals with physically demanding routines.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessments usually last between 45 to 60 minutes to allow for comprehensive evaluation. Follow-up sessions are typically 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your specific needs and treatment plan.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes. A key component of physiotherapy is a tailored home exercise program designed to support your recovery and promote independence. Your Physiothérapeute will prescribe exercises suited to your condition and goals, which you should perform regularly to maximize results.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiothérapeute will conduct a detailed assessment, including a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. A physical examination will follow to identify the underlying cause of your issues. The therapist will then explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a plan to begin your rehabilitation, which may include initial exercises or hands-on techniques.

CHU Sainte-Justine
3175, Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine
Montréal, QC H3T 1C4

Phone: (514) 345-4931

Justine Meilleur 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.