Marie-Elene Coté-Martin – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Marie-Elene Coté-Martin is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Institut de réadaptation en déficience physique de Québec - IRDPQ in Québec, QC, Marie-Elene is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She specializes in assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Her approach involves providing specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. Her goal is to help patients reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk, fostering greater independence.

Marie-Elene completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has gained extensive clinical experience, demonstrating a strong commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. She has developed particular expertise and interest in Neurological Physiotherapy and Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation, enabling her to deliver tailored interventions for complex neurological conditions. Her dedication to continuous learning ensures she stays at the forefront of physiotherapy advancements, offering her patients the most effective and current treatment options.

Her practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Québec community through proactive physiotherapy. Marie-Elene adopts a holistic approach, emphasizing patient education, personalized treatment plans, and collaborative goal setting. She is fluent in French, ensuring clear communication and compassionate care for her diverse patient base.

Marie-Elene Coté-Martin provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy management of acute and persistent symptoms of a concussion, including addressing associated neck pain/dysfunction (cervicogenic component), vestibular (balance/dizziness) issues, oculomotor (eye movement) problems, and exertional intolerance.

Neurological

• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Gentle exercises, stretching programs, and strategies to preserve strength and function, and to manage secondary complications associated with muscular dystrophies.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy strategies to help manage common MS symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, spasticity, balance problems, walking difficulties, pain, and bladder dysfunction, aiming to maintain function, improve quality of life, and promote self-management.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Comprehensive physiotherapy focusing on improving strength in available muscles, enhancing functional mobility, and promoting health and wellness after a spinal cord injury.

Peripheral Nerve

• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Addressing the physical consequences of nerve damage in the limbs through targeted exercises (e.g., for balance, strength, desensitization), sensory re-education, and advice on appropriate footwear or assistive devices.
• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Symptoms such as localized or radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by mechanical compression or irritation of peripheral nerves at specific anatomical sites (entrapment points).

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

• Rehabilitation for Age-Related Deconditioning & Loss of Autonomy: Comprehensive support for improving performance in activities of daily living (e.g., dressing, bathing, transferring, cooking) and rebuilding physical confidence and independence in older adults.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
• Geriatric Physiotherapy & Seniors' Health: Specialized physiotherapy programs focused on addressing the unique physical needs of older adults, aiming to improve mobility, strength, balance, flexibility, manage age-related conditions (e.g., osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, sarcopenia), and reduce the risk of falls.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Marie-Elene. 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 Institut de réadaptation en déficience physique de Québec - IRDPQ, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Marie-Elene frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• It's truly rewarding for Marie-Elene to witness patients conquer aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk and experience returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in participating fully in your martial arts practice, including sparring again.
• Many find that pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) significantly impacts their ability to managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain. Marie-Elene helps patients target greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• If loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury is preventing you from fully enjoying getting back to your regular, consistent gym workouts, Marie-Elene offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Marie-Elene practices at the 'Institut de réadaptation en déficience physique de Québec - IRDPQ', situated in a central Québec neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access a comprehensive range of health resources. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring easy accessibility for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

While some specific programs or circumstances may offer partial coverage, generally, physiotherapy services performed in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting certain criteria. Patients are advised to verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and check their private insurance plans for coverage.

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

Patients in Quebec 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. Patients are encouraged to verify their insurance requirements before their first appointment.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques used by Physiothérapeutes to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Techniques include joint mobilization, joint manipulation, soft tissue mobilization such as massage and myofascial release, and neural mobilization. The primary goals are pain reduction, improved joint and tissue mobility, and restoration of function.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at Institut de réadaptation en déficience physique de Québec - IRDPQ treat?

Marie-Elene's practice addresses a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes back and neck pain, joint issues such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, nerve pain, and neurological conditions like stroke, MS, and spinal cord injury. Treatments often encompass rehabilitation for age-related deconditioning, balance disorders, and patient education to help achieve functional goals.

Institut de réadaptation en déficience physique de Québec - IRDPQ
525, Boulevard Wilfrid-Hamel
Québec, QC G1M 2S8

Phone: (418) 529-9141

Marie-Elene Coté-Martin 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.