Karina Pellei – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Karina Pellei is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Île-de-Montréal (Maisonneuve-Rosemont) in Montréal, QC, Karina is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She specializes in providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions, helping patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Her approach emphasizes personalized care tailored to each individual, fostering recovery and long-term wellness.

Karina has completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated extensive clinical experience. She prioritizes ongoing professional development and adheres to evidence-based practices to ensure her patients receive the most current and effective treatments. Her dedication to staying informed about the latest advancements in physiotherapy reflects her commitment to providing optimal care and achieving the best outcomes for her patients.

With a philosophy rooted in a patient-centered and collaborative approach, Karina actively involves her patients in their treatment planning and goal setting. She promotes preventative care and long-term health, working closely with individuals to attain their movement and functional goals. Karina is fluent in English and French, enabling her to communicate effectively with Montréal’s diverse community and ensure her patients feel comfortable and understood throughout their recovery journey.

Karina Pellei 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): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.

Back Neck Pain

• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.
• 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.

Common Msk

• 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.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.

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

• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Utilizing electrophysical agents as an adjunct to your physiotherapy treatments to aid recovery, improve muscle function, manage pain, or reduce swelling, tailored to your specific condition.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: A non-invasive electrotherapy modality aimed at reducing pain, muscle guarding, or swelling, and sometimes used for muscle strengthening, as part of your physiotherapy treatment.

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

• Through personalized physiotherapy at Karina's clinic, common concerns like needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity? Karina works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain.
• If difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain is preventing you from fully enjoying handling your job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending, Karina offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Karina practices at the CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Île-de-Montréal (Maisonneuve-Rosemont), situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. The clinic is located within a public healthcare facility that is easily accessible by various public transit routes, making it convenient for patients coming from different parts of the city. The location is close to local community services and pharmacies, supporting a holistic approach to health and wellness. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Essentially, physiotherapy helps you get moving and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you're dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiothérapeute will work with you. They’ll use their expertise in body mechanics, rehabilitation, and pain management to create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and practical advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active, fulfilling life.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiothérapeute will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what’s done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you’re not in a session.

Is there parking available at or near CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Île-de-Montréal (Maisonneuve-Rosemont)?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots.

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.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It’s advisable to check your insurance policy before your first appointment to confirm coverage.

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. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received in a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. Always verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

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, granting them the autonomy to assess, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) focused on technical application, assisting physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, applying modalities, and reporting progress, thus playing a vital role in patient care.

CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal (Maisonneuve-Rosemont)
5415, Boulevard de l'Assomption
Montréal, QC H1T 2M4

Phone: (514) 252-3400 | Website: ciusss-estmtl.gouv.qc.ca

Karina Pellei 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.