Marie Claude Poirier – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Marie Claude Poirier is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Hôpital Montfort in Ottawa, ON, Marie Claude Poirier is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Marie Claude Poirier's focus is providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Marie Claude Poirier serves a diverse range of patients.

Marie Claude Poirier completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 1997). With extensive clinical experience, Marie Claude Poirier is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Marie Claude Poirier has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Marie Claude Poirier's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Marie Claude Poirier offers consultations in English, French.

Marie Claude Poirier provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Joint Pain

• 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.
• 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.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).
• 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.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Marie Claude Poirier can assess your needs.

• 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.
• 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.
• Spinal Decompression / Mechanical Traction: Therapeutic traction for the cervical (neck) or lumbar (low back) spine, used by physiotherapists to help reduce pain, decompress nerve roots, and improve symptoms associated with conditions like disc herniations, sciatica, or spinal stenosis.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive, evidence-based treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and promote tissue regeneration in stubborn soft tissue conditions that haven't responded to other therapies.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• 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. For a full list of therapies offered by Marie Claude Poirier, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

At Hôpital Montfort, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Marie Claude Poirier frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Physiotherapy with Marie Claude Poirier can be a transformative turning point for those affected by recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches. The shared goal is achieving enjoying less stiffness in the mornings and throughout the day, paving the way for you to enjoy reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain and a more active, vibrant life.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Marie Claude Poirier can help you move beyond trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain. The focus is on reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails.
• Don't let breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity dictate what you can and cannot do. Marie Claude Poirier offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health, helping you reclaim attending their favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation and enjoy a more functional life.
• Struggling with the frustration of trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? Marie Claude Poirier develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation. This is key to helping you get back to doing returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Marie Claude Poirier practices at Hôpital Montfort, situated in the Overbrook, Castle Heights, Vanier South neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near the Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What are Hôpital Montfort's operating hours?

Hôpital Montfort is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call the hospital directly or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Hôpital Montfort or your physician directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiotherapist has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

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

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility is strict and waitlists may exist. Check your private insurance for coverage.

Hôpital Montfort
713 Montreal Rd
Ottawa, ON, K1K 0T2

Phone: (613) 746-4621

Marie Claude Poirier is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Registration Number: XXX37

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=58f5bdf4-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.