Maria Calandriello – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Maria Calandriello is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal) in Montréal, QC, Maria is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her role involves managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Her approach includes breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, personalized exercise prescriptions, and patient education to optimize respiratory function and overall well-being.

Maria's focus is on providing comprehensive care for adult patients, helping them regain their independence and improve their quality of life through evidence-based physiotherapy interventions. She emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with her patients to develop tailored treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals. Her compassionate and proactive style ensures that each individual receives attentive care aimed at fostering long-term health benefits and symptom management.

Maria completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing commitment to professional development. She stays current with the latest research and best practices in physiotherapy, especially within the realm of cardiorespiratory health. Fluent in English, French, and Italian, Maria is able to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population, ensuring clear understanding and engagement in their recovery process.

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

Cardioresp

• Asthma Management (Exercise-Induced & General 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-Pneumonia / Respiratory Infection Recovery: Helping you get back on your feet, improve your stamina, and restore your respiratory health after a severe chest infection.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Gentle and progressive physiotherapy rehabilitation following spinal surgery (e.g., for disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or spinal fusion), initiated once cleared by your surgeon, to improve mobility, core strength, posture, reduce pain, and safely return to daily activities.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: A structured, progressive, and goal-oriented physiotherapy rehabilitation program crucial for restoring knee stability, strength, range of motion, and proprioception (joint position sense) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or other knee ligament (e.g., PCL, MCL, LCL) reconstructive surgery.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): A structured physiotherapy program to manage post-operative pain and swelling, improve knee flexibility and strength, and re-educate your gait pattern after a TKA or PKA.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A tailored physiotherapy program following hip joint replacement to optimize your recovery, manage pain, ensure adherence to any precautions, and facilitate a return to an active lifestyle.

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

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs: Enhancing daily function, reducing symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue, and improving the quality of life for people with ongoing lung disease through tailored exercise and education.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• 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.
• 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): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Maria. 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 CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Maria frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• When aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children, physiotherapy with Maria can help you work towards seeing their child achieve developmental milestones with greater ease (for pediatric physio). The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Are you finding that difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain stops you from enjoying standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event? Maria is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• It's truly rewarding for Maria to witness patients conquer that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit and experience building the necessary muscle support for their joints, reducing the risk of re-injury. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play again.

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

Maria practices at CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal), a prominent public healthcare facility situated in the heart of Montréal. Located in a central Montréal neighborhood, the clinic is easily accessible via multiple public transit routes, making it convenient for patients from all parts of the city. The facility is close to various community services and pharmacies, providing a comprehensive healthcare environment. 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 usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Some public coverage may be available for care received directly within hospitals or CLSCs under specific criteria. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private health insurance plans for coverage details.

Does CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal) offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, CHUM offers direct billing for most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, and others. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to facilitate the process. If direct billing isn't available for your plan, we will provide detailed receipts for you to submit for reimbursement.

How can I book an appointment at CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal)?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (514) 890-8121 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer online booking through our website at CHUM. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiothérapeute to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. Shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiothérapeute uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, manual therapy, and education to assess, diagnose, and treat injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and the cardiorespiratory system. It can help reduce pain, improve mobility, recover from surgery, prevent injuries, and enhance overall quality of life.

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 university degree, allowing independent assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and assists physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, helping with exercises, and monitoring progress under supervision.

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

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

CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal)
1000, Rue Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1

Phone: (514) 890-8121 | Website: CHUM

Maria Calandriello 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.