Marie-Christine Richard – Physiotherapy Technologist | Montréal, QC

Marie-Christine Richard is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal in Montréal, QC, Marie-Christine is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role involves assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. She has a particular focus on serving senior patients, helping them regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life.

Marie-Christine completed her degree in Physiotherapy and brings valuable clinical experience to her practice. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development and staying current with evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Her skills include therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, ensuring that each individual receives tailored care suited to their specific needs. Her compassionate approach and attention to detail foster a supportive environment where patients feel confident and motivated in their recovery journey.

Guided by a philosophy of empowering patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies, Marie-Christine actively involves individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. She believes that patient engagement is essential for lasting results. Marie-Christine is fluent in French and English, allowing her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population and provide culturally sensitive care.

Marie-Christine Richard provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Common Msk

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• 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.

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

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: A non-invasive light therapy used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, promote faster healing, reduce pain, and modulate inflammation without generating heat.
• 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.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• 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.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• 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.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking and achieved waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness under the skilled care of Marie-Christine. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around your neighborhood for fresh air with a new lease on life.
• The path to recovery from my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night and achieving improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain for operating machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work often starts with expert guidance. Marie-Christine, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Tired of dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women) interfering with spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain? Marie-Christine uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Marie-Christine practices at CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal, situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. The clinic is part of a public healthcare facility that provides accessible care to the community. It is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access their treatments. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring that patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapy Technologist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

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

In Quebec, the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or utilize private insurance for these services. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if specific eligibility criteria are met. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private extended health insurance plans, as many offer coverage for physiotherapy in private clinics.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiotherapy Technologist 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 your insurance policy details before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

What is CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee equivalent to 50% of the service cost or a set amount like $XX may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments (no-shows) without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They implement treatment plans created by physiotherapists or physicians, assist with exercises, apply modalities, and report progress to the supervising professional.

CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal
8655, Boulevard Perras
Montréal, QC H1E 4M7

Phone: (514) 269-6895

Marie-Christine Richard 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.