About
Michèle Dupont Giard is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Clinique Alta Physio in Cowansville, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Michèle’s approach emphasizes a thorough understanding of each individual's unique needs, ensuring personalized treatment plans that promote optimal recovery and well-being. Her practice is rooted in fostering a welcoming and supportive environment where patients feel valued and empowered to take an active role in their health journey.
Michèle’s role encompasses addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and developmental conditions. She specializes in managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Her expertise extends to providing tailored physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to support developmental milestones, address congenital conditions like torticollis, and promote healthy movement patterns. Whether working with children, adolescents, or adults, Michèle strives to facilitate functional improvement and enhance quality of life through evidence-based interventions.
With a solid educational foundation and ongoing professional development, Michèle has cultivated skills and a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Pediatric Physiotherapy. Her practice philosophy is centered around a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. She is dedicated to continuous learning, integrating the latest research into her practice to ensure the best possible outcomes. Michèle is fluent in English and French, allowing her to connect effectively with a diverse community of patients.
Michèle Dupont Giard provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Pediatric
- Developmental Delays (Gross Motor Skills): Early physiotherapy assessment and treatment to address challenges in acquiring fundamental gross motor skills, promoting optimal development.
- Congenital Muscular Torticollis / Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome): Helping your baby achieve a centered head position, full neck mobility, and improve their head shape through specialized physiotherapy techniques and parent education.
- Toe Walking (Idiopathic / Habitual): Persistent walking on the toes or balls of the feet in young children, without a known underlying medical or neurological cause (idiopathic toe walking), often developing as a habit after initially learning to walk.
- Pediatric Sports Injuries & Growing Pains (e.g., Osgood-Schlatter, Sever's Disease): Musculoskeletal injuries common in young, growing athletes due to overuse, rapid growth spurts, or acute trauma. Examples include Osgood-Schlatter disease (painful lump below the kneecap), Sever's disease (heel pain), Little League elbow/shoulder, and various sprains or strains.
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.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with MS stay active, manage symptoms effectively, maintain independence for as long as possible, and adapt to changes in their condition.
Developmental
- Coordination Challenges / Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) - Supportive Physiotherapy: Enhancing motor competence, body awareness, and confidence in children with coordination issues through fun and engaging physiotherapy activities tailored to their specific challenges and goals.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Michèle can assess your needs.
- Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
- Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
- Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.
- General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
- Congenital Muscular Torticollis & Plagiocephaly (Flat Head) Treatment: Comprehensive guidance for parents on managing torticollis and plagiocephaly at home, including tummy time strategies, environmental adaptations, and therapeutic play.
- Pediatric Physiotherapy (Infants, Children & Adolescents): Expert physiotherapy care for a wide range of pediatric physical challenges, promoting healthy movement and lifelong activity.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Michèle. 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 Clinique Alta Physio, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Michèle frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Patients often come to Michèle feeling defeated by recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID). With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns and resuming giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
- Through personalized physiotherapy at Michèle's clinic, common concerns like that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like challenging myself with indoor or outdoor rock climbing.
- Rediscover your ability to hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter without the constant burden of an awkward gait or limping when I walk. Michèle focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to enhanced ability to participate in social and community events, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Michèle, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Michèle practices at 'Clinique Alta Physio', situated in a modern clinic located in the heart of Cowansville. The clinic is conveniently positioned in the central neighborhood, making it easily accessible to residents from the surrounding community. It is close to local services and pharmacies, providing a comprehensive healthcare experience. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring easy access for patients using public transportation. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.
- Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?
- While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Michèle will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.
- What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?
- During your first visit, Michèle will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, Michèle will explain her findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You’ll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.
- What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?
- It’s not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you’re starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it’s important to contact Michèle or your healthcare provider directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiothérapeute in QC?
- In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a practice known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check the requirements of your specific insurance policy before your appointment to ensure coverage.
- What is the difference between a Physiotherapist (Physiothérapeute) and a Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) in Quebec?
- A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, allowing them to assess patients, make diagnoses, and develop treatment plans independently. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They assist physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, helping patients with exercises, and reporting progress.
- 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 usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some services received within hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if specific criteria are met. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance provider for coverage details.
- Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?
- For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., RAMQ card), any relevant medical documents such as a referral note, recent imaging reports, and a list of current medications. If you plan to use private insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.
Clinique Alta Physio
1530, Rue du Sud, # 200
Cowansville, QC J2K 2Y8
Phone: (450) 955-3858
Michèle Dupont Giard 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.