Maritza Bibiana Castro – Physiotherapist | Saint-Hubert, QC

Maritza Bibiana Castro is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CISSSMO-CRDP in Saint-Hubert, QC, Maritza is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. With a focus on assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease, Maritza provides comprehensive physiotherapy services. Her approach also includes addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This encompasses everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and extensive post-operative rehabilitation, ensuring that each patient receives tailored and effective treatment plans.

Maritza Bibiana Castro completed her degree in Physiotherapy. With clinical experience, Maritza is dedicated to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. She has developed specialized skills and a particular interest in Neurological Physiotherapy and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, enabling her to deliver advanced care for complex cases. Her commitment to staying current with the latest research and techniques ensures that her patients benefit from the most effective and up-to-date treatments available.

Maritza's practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. She promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Saint-Hubert community through proactive physiotherapy interventions. Maritza is fluent in Spanish, French, and English, allowing her to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations and ensure clear understanding and comfort during treatment.

Maritza Bibiana Castro provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Vestibular Balance

• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Reduced function of one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) inner ear balance systems (vestibular organs), leading to persistent dizziness, gaze instability (difficulty keeping vision clear during head movement), imbalance, and sometimes nausea.
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): A chronic functional dizziness disorder characterized by persistent sensations of dizziness, unsteadiness, or non-spinning vertigo (often lasting for 3 months or more), typically exacerbated by upright posture, active or passive motion, or exposure to complex or moving visual environments (e.g., busy supermarkets, scrolling on a screen). Often follows an acute vestibular event, medical illness, or period of psychological distress.

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Physiotherapy for common nerve compression syndromes, including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist), Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (neck/shoulder), Sciatica (low back/buttock), or Meralgia Paresthetica (outer thigh). Treatment often includes manual therapy, nerve gliding exercises (neural mobilization), postural correction, ergonomic advice, and activity modification.
• 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.

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): An inflammatory arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis (a skin condition), causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and sometimes affecting tendons (enthesitis) and ligaments. Can affect small or large joints, often asymmetrically, and sometimes the spine.

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

• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Comprehensive assessment of your fall risk factors with individualized interventions, including balance exercises, strength training, gait re-training, and home safety advice to help you prevent falls.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Evidence-based neurological rehabilitation focused on harnessing neuroplasticity, motor learning principles, and task-specific training to help regain lost skills and adapt to new ways of moving.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.

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

• Living with a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck doesn't have to be your norm. Maritza applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of peacefully paddling your kayak or canoe on the lake for hours.
• For those whose feeling like my joints are just 'wearing out' and getting harder to move has made taking group exercise classes at the community center seem like a distant memory, Maritza's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to taking group exercise classes at the community center with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Maritza can help you move beyond general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden. The focus is on seeing their child achieve developmental milestones with greater ease (for pediatric physio), enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain.

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

Maritza practices at CISSSMO-CRDP, situated in a clinic in the central Saint-Hubert neighborhood of Saint-Hubert. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive health support. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring accessible transportation options for most patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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 typically pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance for coverage. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC (if meeting their criteria) might be covered. It is important to verify your specific eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might cause temporary discomfort or soreness, especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, they should not be excessively painful or intolerable. Maritza will discuss what sensations to expect and will adjust treatments to ensure your comfort while still providing therapeutic benefits. Maintaining open communication about your comfort level is essential.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Maritza can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, or postural issues. Through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, and ergonomic advice, physiotherapy can help reduce the risk of injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions effectively.

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

A Physiothérapeute has completed a master's level university education, enabling them to assess patients, establish diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma focused on technical application, assisting physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, guiding exercises, and reporting progress. Both play vital roles in patient care.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally access physiotherapy directly without a doctor's referral (known as direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy to confirm specific requirements before your appointment.

CISSSMO-CRDP
5300, Chemin de Chambly
Saint-Hubert, QC J3Y 3N7

Phone: (450) 676-7447 | Website: https://www.santemonteregie.qc.ca/installations/centre-de-readaptation-en-deficience-physique-du-chemin-de-chambly

Maritza Bibiana Castro 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.