Michaela Spivak – Physiotherapist | Westmount, QC

Michaela Spivak is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at SPC Physio in Westmount, QC, Michaela is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes a comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs. Michaela strives to empower her patients, fostering an environment where education and active participation are central to the healing process.

With a focus on neurological rehabilitation, Michaela assists 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. Her expertise also encompasses addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including acute injuries like sprains and strains, chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Michaela serves a diverse patient population, including older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring tailored care for all age groups.

Michaela completed her degree in Physiotherapy, and her clinical experience has deepened her commitment to evidence-based practices and ongoing professional development. She has developed particular interests in neurological physiotherapy and orthopedic/musculoskeletal rehabilitation, continually refining her skills to offer the best possible outcomes for her patients. Her practice philosophy revolves around a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning, setting achievable goals, and promoting lasting results. Michaela offers her care in English, ensuring clear and effective communication with her patients.

Michaela Spivak provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, 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 degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Tailored exercise programs (including range of motion, strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercises), pain relief modalities, and education on joint protection techniques and energy conservation for individuals with RA or similar conditions.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Helping to manage the musculoskeletal aspects of psoriatic disease, working in conjunction with medical management to optimize your physical function and comfort.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.

Neurological

• 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: Supporting individuals with FND to improve their physical function, reduce symptom burden, and enhance participation in daily life activities through specialized physiotherapy.
• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Utilizing evidence-based neuroplasticity principles, motor relearning techniques, and task-specific training to help stroke survivors improve movement and achieve their functional goals.
• 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.

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

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Comprehensive physiotherapy programs designed to maximize quality of life and functional abilities for individuals with conditions like stroke (CVA), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, traumatic or acquired brain injury (TBI/ABI), or incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI).

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

• Discover how physiotherapy with Michaela can help you move beyond loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury. The focus is on successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as maintaining your balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails.
• Don't let an awkward gait or limping when I walk dictate what you can and cannot do. Michaela offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health, helping you reclaim managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain and enjoy a more functional life.
• Many find that recovering from a burn and needing help with scar mobility and movement significantly impacts their ability to participating in community events and social gatherings more actively. Michaela helps patients target a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Craft one descriptive paragraph for the 'Clinic Location & Accessibility' section. Mention Michaela's practice at 'SPC Physio', situated in a clinic in central Westmount neighborhood of Westmount. This Private clinic facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies and is accessible via local public transit routes. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Is there parking available at or near SPC Physio?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots.

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

In Quebec, most outpatient private physiotherapy services are not directly covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some coverage may be available for services within hospitals or CLSCs under specific conditions. It is advisable to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private health insurance plan for possible reimbursement options.

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

A Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree and can perform assessments, diagnose, and create treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under supervision, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises but does not diagnose or establish treatment plans independently. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best. For lower-body issues, shorts are helpful; for upper-body concerns, a loose T-shirt or tank top facilitates proper examination and treatment.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy directly without a referral. However, some private insurance plans may require a physician's referral for reimbursement. It is recommended to check your insurance policy before your appointment.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a science-based practice focused on restoring movement and function, reducing pain, and preventing future issues. A Physiothérapeute uses therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you achieve your health goals and regain independence.

SPC Physio
4920, Boulevard de Maisonneuve O
Westmount, QC H3Z 1N1

Phone: (514) 840-7231

Michaela Spivak 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.