Melissa Mofford – Physiotherapist | Saint-Laurent, QC

Melissa Mofford is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at ECOLE PETER HALL SCHOOL in Saint-Laurent, QC, Melissa is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of each patient's unique needs, ensuring tailored treatment plans that promote optimal recovery and functional improvement.

Melissa specializes in providing advanced physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions such as torticollis, orthopedic injuries, and neurological conditions. Her focus extends to promoting motor development, enhancing participation in daily activities, and supporting families through education and personalized interventions. Additionally, Melissa assists individuals of all ages in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life following neurological events like stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease.

With a solid background in physiotherapy, Melissa completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has gained valuable clinical experience. She remains dedicated to ongoing professional development, integrating evidence-based practices into her care. Her areas of particular interest include Pediatric Physiotherapy and Neurological Physiotherapy, ensuring she provides the most current and effective interventions. Melissa's practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, emphasizing education, empowerment, and collaborative goal setting. She is fluent in English and French, facilitating clear communication and personalized care for diverse patient populations.

Melissa Mofford provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Neurological

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Focusing on restoring movement, balance, and independence after a traumatic or acquired brain injury through evidence-based physiotherapy approaches.
• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy for weakness or paralysis of facial muscles, often affecting one side of the face (e.g., Bell's Palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, post-surgical facial nerve injury).
• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Helping individuals with Parkinson's Disease maintain mobility, functional independence, and safety, and improve their quality of movement and life.
• Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: Physiotherapy as a key component of a multidisciplinary approach for FND, focusing on movement retraining, normalizing movement patterns that may be abnormal (e.g., tremor, weakness, gait disturbance, dystonia), and improving functional abilities.

Joint Pain

• 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.
• 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.

Common Msk

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Common ankle injuries causing acute pain, persistent swelling, and instability, significantly affecting your ability to walk, run, or participate in sports.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Pain affecting the hip joint and surrounding musculature, which can limit activities like walking, standing for long periods, rising from a chair, or lying on the affected side.

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

• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Specialized assessment and treatment techniques, such as canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - BPPV), to address symptoms of dizziness, vertigo (spinning sensations), and imbalance caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Bringing expert physiotherapy services to you when clinic visits are challenging, ensuring continuity of care and personalized attention in your familiar surroundings.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Comprehensive care for concussion recovery, including initial assessment of symptoms (headache, dizziness, etc.), management of associated neck pain or dysfunction, vestibular and oculomotor (eye movement) rehabilitation, and guided, gradual return-to-learn, work, and sport protocols.
• 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.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Convenient access to expert physiotherapy services from the comfort of your home, office, or any location with an internet connection, ideal for those with busy schedules, living in remote areas, or preferring virtual care.
• 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.

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

• Through personalized physiotherapy at Melissa's clinic, common concerns like recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of being able to travel more comfortably and with less planning around physical limitations. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like playing your musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit and achieved experiencing significant pain relief, allowing for a more comfortable daily life under the skilled care of Melissa. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache with a new lease on life.
• When loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture, physiotherapy with Melissa can help you work towards increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.

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

Melissa practices at ECOLE PETER HALL SCHOOL, situated within a dedicated clinic in the central Saint-Laurent neighborhood of Saint-Laurent. The facility is located in a private educational environment, providing a calm and child-friendly setting for pediatric physiotherapy. It is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for families and individuals to access ongoing care. The clinic is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring convenient transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at ECOLE PETER HALL SCHOOL 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 (Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery), joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries (like Ankylosing Spondylitis), and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Pediatric Physiotherapy and Neurological Physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders, Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio), and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician’s referral, a process known as direct access. However, it’s important to note that some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor’s referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients are advised to verify the specific requirements of their insurance policies before their first appointment.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is to reduce pain and improve function. Some assessment techniques or treatments, such as joint mobilization or deep soft tissue work, might cause mild, temporary discomfort, especially if tissues are inflamed or very stiff. Melissa always works within your tolerance levels, communicates clearly about what to expect, and encourages feedback. If you experience significant pain during treatment, please inform her immediately so adjustments can be made for your comfort.

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 through private insurance. Some coverage may be available if the care is received directly within a public hospital or CLSC under specific eligibility criteria. For most outpatient private physiotherapy services, individuals rely on private insurance plans to cover costs. It is recommended to verify your specific eligibility with RAMQ and consult your insurance provider for coverage details.

ECOLE PETER HALL SCHOOL
840, Boulevard de la Côte-Vertu
Saint-Laurent, QC H4L 1Y4

Phone: (514) 747-4075 | Website: http://www.peterhall.qc.ca/

Melissa Mofford 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.