Kelly-Ann Malo – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Kelly-Ann Malo is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at CHU Sainte-Justine / CR Marie-Enfant in Montréal, QC, Kelly-Ann is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She specializes in managing 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 tailored breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, and individualized exercise prescriptions, complemented by education to empower patients in their recovery and ongoing health management.

In addition to her focus on respiratory health, Kelly-Ann also addresses a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions such as sprains, strains, arthritis, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Her comprehensive care extends to children of all ages—from infants to 17 years—helping young patients recover from injuries, improve posture, and develop healthy movement habits. Kelly-Ann’s holistic approach ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, and promoting overall well-being.

Kelly-Ann completed her degree in Physiotherapy with a strong foundation in evidence-based practices. She continually enhances her skills through ongoing professional development, with particular interest and expertise in Cardiorespiratory and Orthopedic Physiotherapy. Her practice philosophy emphasizes collaboration, education, and patient empowerment, working closely with individuals to set realistic goals and develop sustainable strategies for health and mobility. Kelly-Ann is fluent in French and English, ensuring clear communication and comfort for diverse patient populations.

Kelly-Ann Malo provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.
• 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.

Cardioresp

• Asthma Management (Exercise-Induced & General Support): A chronic inflammatory condition of the airways causing recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing, often triggered by allergens, irritants, cold air, or exercise (Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction - EIB).
• Bronchiectasis Management (Airway Clearance): Improving lung hygiene, reducing cough burden, and enhancing quality of life for those with bronchiectasis through tailored physiotherapy interventions.
• Post-Cardiac Event Rehabilitation (Supportive Care, e.g., after MI or CABG): Supportive physiotherapy care focusing on individually prescribed and monitored graded exercise, education on lifestyle changes, and strategies to manage symptoms and improve confidence post-heart event.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.

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

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs: A structured physiotherapy program designed to help you manage your chronic lung condition more effectively, improve your physical function, and reduce hospital admissions.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy (e.g., COPD, Asthma, Post-Pneumonia, Post-Cardiac Event Support): Physiotherapy management of conditions affecting the heart and lungs, including breathing exercises and retraining, airway clearance techniques (e.g., for mucus), education on self-management, and graded exercise programs to improve endurance, reduce breathlessness, and enhance quality of life.

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

• Struggling with the frustration of an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak? Kelly-Ann develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey. This is key to helping you get back to doing carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Kelly-Ann can help you move beyond a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns). The focus is on improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands.
• If trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury is preventing you from fully enjoying hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter, Kelly-Ann offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Kelly-Ann practices at CHU Sainte-Justine / CR Marie-Enfant, 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. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy refers to specialized hands-on techniques used by a Physiothérapeute to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This can include joint mobilization (gentle, rhythmic gliding movements), joint manipulation (skilled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, where appropriate and within the therapist's scope and with your consent), various soft tissue mobilization techniques (like massage, myofascial release, trigger point release), and neural mobilization (gentle techniques to improve nerve movement). The primary goals are to reduce pain, improve range of motion, restore optimal joint mechanics, reduce muscle tension, and enhance tissue repair and function.

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

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) card, if applicable for any publicly funded programs or simply for identification), any relevant medical information such as a doctor’s referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), and a list of your current medications. Also, if you plan to use private health insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Finally, wear or bring comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy directly without a physician’s referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans or extended health benefits may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider before your appointment to confirm their specific requirements.

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover outpatient physiotherapy services in private clinics. Coverage may be available for services provided within hospitals or CLSCs under specific conditions. Most patients pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance for outpatient physiotherapy. It’s recommended to verify your coverage with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for potential benefits.

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 patients, diagnose, and develop treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and plays a vital role in implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, and applying modalities under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician.

CHU Sainte-Justine / CR Marie-Enfant
3175, Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine
Montréal, QC H3T 1C5

Phone: (514) 374-1710

Kelly-Ann Malo 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.