About
Melanie Robitaille is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal) in Montréal, QC, Melanie 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 after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Melanie’s approach involves comprehensive assessments and personalized treatment plans designed to optimize neurological recovery and promote independence in daily activities.
In addition to neurological rehabilitation, Melanie provides care for patients with acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, including COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Her interventions include breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, exercise prescription, and patient education to help improve respiratory function and overall well-being. Melanie serves adults and seniors, tailoring her therapies to meet the unique needs of each individual, fostering long-term health and functional mobility.
Melanie Robitaille completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that reinforces her commitment to evidence-based practices. She has developed a particular interest and expertise in Neurological Physiotherapy and Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy, ensuring her patients benefit from the latest advancements and tailored interventions. Melanie believes in promoting preventative care and long-term wellness, actively involving her patients in their treatment planning and goal setting. She is fluent in English and French, facilitating effective communication and personalized care for a diverse patient population.
Melanie Robitaille provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Concussion
- Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach for individuals recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury, guiding a safe and gradual return to school, work, and sport activities.
Long Covid
- Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Symptom Management: Tailored physiotherapy rehabilitation programs focusing on symptom-guided activity management (pacing), gentle graded exercise (carefully monitored to avoid post-exertional malaise - PEM), breathing retraining exercises, strategies for fatigue and 'brain fog', and functional retraining to help individuals manage the debilitating effects of Long COVID.
Joint Pain
- 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.
- Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Melanie can assess your needs.
- Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
- Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
- Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Tailored exercises, hands-on techniques, and functional strategies to manage symptoms (e.g., spasticity, weakness, ataxia) and optimize function in various neurological conditions, promoting participation in daily life.
- Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.
- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
- Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy to address persistent concussion symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, balance problems, visual disturbances, and difficulty concentrating or tolerating activity.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Melanie. 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 CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Melanie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Dealing with the ongoing challenges of dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash? Melanie works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of regaining full function in an injured area, enabling a return to cherished activities. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain.
- For those whose shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult has made carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably seem like a distant memory, Melanie's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward experiencing significant pain relief, allowing for a more comfortable daily life. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
- Struggling with the frustration of an awkward gait or limping when I walk? Melanie develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort. This is key to helping you get back to doing getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Melanie, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Melanie practices at the CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal), situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. The clinic is housed within a public healthcare facility that offers easy access for patients, being conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies. The location is well-served by public transit routes, making it accessible for patients traveling by bus or metro. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.
- 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 also perform certain advanced procedures if they have the required additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They play a crucial role in delivering care by implementing treatment plans designed by a physiotherapist or physician, assisting patients with their exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising professional.
- What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?
- Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiothérapeute uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.
- 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 typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private or extended health insurance plans for coverage details.
- Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?
- Yes, physiotherapy is effective in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiothérapeute can identify risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, or postural issues, and develop targeted exercises, provide education on proper body mechanics, and suggest ergonomic adjustments to help reduce the risk of injury or re-injury.
- What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal) treat?
- Our Physiothérapeutes treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain, joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, nerve pain, and conditions related to neurological events like stroke or multiple sclerosis. Treatments often involve Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified), Postural Assessment and Correction, manual therapy, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiothérapeute in QC?
- In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check your insurance policy details before your first appointment to ensure coverage.
CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal)
1000, Rue Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1
Phone: (514) 890-8301
Melanie Robitaille 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.