Maria Iqbal – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Maria Iqbal is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Centre médical de la Plaza in Montréal, QC, Maria is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes understanding each patient's unique needs and working collaboratively to develop personalized treatment plans that promote recovery, mobility, and overall well-being. With a compassionate and empathetic manner, Maria ensures her patients feel supported and informed throughout their physiotherapy journey.

Maria's physiotherapy focus encompasses addressing 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. Additionally, she manages 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 treatments involve breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, exercise prescription, and patient education, aiming to improve respiratory function and overall health. She serves adults and seniors, ensuring their specific needs are met with care and professionalism.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Maria has developed expertise in Orthopedic, Musculoskeletal, and Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy. She holds a university degree in Physiotherapy and has gained valuable clinical experience that informs her evidence-based practice. Maria is committed to continuous learning to stay current with the latest advancements in her field. She believes in a collaborative, patient-centered approach, working closely with her clients to help them achieve their movement and wellness goals. Fluent in English, French, Hindi, and Urdu, Maria effectively communicates with a diverse range of patients, fostering a welcoming and respectful environment.

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

Cardioresp

• Bronchiectasis Management (Airway Clearance): Managing symptoms and preventing exacerbations in bronchiectasis through specialized respiratory physiotherapy, including individualized airway clearance regimens and exercise advice.
• 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.
• 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).

Joint Pain

• 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.
• 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.

Common Msk

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.
• 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): Aching, sharp pain, a feeling of the knee 'giving way', or difficulty fully bending or straightening your knee.

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

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• 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.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.

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 Centre médical de la Plaza, 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:

• Many patients have found lasting relief from trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and achieved greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching under the skilled care of Maria. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands with a new lease on life.
• Living with feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems doesn't have to be your norm. Maria applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of taking group exercise classes at the community center.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity? Maria works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as playing actively and roughhousing with your young kids or grandkids.

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

Maria practices at Centre médical de la Plaza, situated in the heart of Montréal in a well-equipped private clinic in the central Montréal neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care in a familiar setting. Easily accessible via multiple public transit routes, the clinic ensures that transportation is straightforward for most patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiothérapeute will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiothérapeute will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Care received directly within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is essential to verify with RAMQ and your private insurance provider regarding coverage details. Many private insurance plans offer substantial physiotherapy benefits for services in private clinics, so checking your policy is recommended.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, and create treatment plans independently. They can also perform certain restricted activities if they hold specific attestations. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises without diagnosing or independently planning treatments. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access 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 check the specific requirements of your insurance policy before booking your appointment.

Centre médical de la Plaza
6700, Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, # 125
Montréal, QC H3S 2B2

Phone: (514) 342-2941

Maria Iqbal 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.