Michelle Lortie – Physiotherapist | Laval, QC

Michelle Lortie is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Évolution physiothérapie Laval in Laval, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that adheres to the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Michelle’s approach emphasizes understanding each patient’s unique needs, fostering a warm and supportive environment to facilitate recovery and wellness.

With a focus on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, Michelle offers specialized assessment and treatment for conditions involving muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Her expertise includes managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Additionally, Michelle has developed skills in vestibular and balance rehabilitation, helping patients recover from dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues, aiming to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk. She serves adults and seniors with a compassionate and community-focused approach.

Michelle completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience in various settings. Her ongoing dedication to professional development ensures she remains current with evidence-based practices. Michelle has cultivated a particular interest in orthopedic and musculoskeletal physiotherapy as well as vestibular rehabilitation, allowing her to offer comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s goals. Fluent in both French and English, Michelle believes in empowering her patients through education and collaborative goal-setting to promote long-term health and independence.

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

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A physiotherapy approach to address the unique challenges of AS, aiming to keep you as mobile and active as possible and support your spinal health and overall well-being.
• 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.

Back & Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.

Hand & Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Helping to alleviate the symptoms of a catching, locking, or painful finger/thumb through targeted physiotherapy interventions, potentially avoiding the need for injections or surgery in some cases.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Managing a variety of acute and chronic conditions of the hand and wrist, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent long-term disability.

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

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach to help you navigate your recovery after a concussion, promoting symptom resolution and safe resumption of activities.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Helping you understand how your posture impacts your musculoskeletal health and providing you with tools for lasting postural improvement and pain relief.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
• Geriatric Physiotherapy & Seniors' Health: Tailored exercise prescription, education on safe movement, manual therapy (gentle techniques), and functional training to help seniors maintain their independence, enhance safety in their home and community, and promote active and healthy aging.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.

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

• The path to recovery from recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) and achieving better joint stability during movement and weight-bearing activities for attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout often starts with expert guidance. Michelle, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• If shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult is preventing you from fully enjoying spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain, Michelle offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• At Michelle's physiotherapy practice, individuals with aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk are guided towards feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as maintaining your balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails.

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

Michelle practices at Évolution physiothérapie Laval, situated in the vibrant Chomedey West neighborhood of Laval. The clinic is conveniently located near Centropolis, a popular hub for entertainment and dining, making it easy for patients to combine their physiotherapy appointments with leisure activities. Accessible via the Société de transport de Laval (STL), the clinic offers excellent transit options for those using public transportation. 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?

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What is Évolution physiothérapie Laval's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee of 50% of the service cost may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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 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 specifics of your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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 use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private outpatient physiotherapy in clinics is typically not reimbursed by RAMQ. It is advisable to verify your coverage with RAMQ and your insurance provider.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on individual needs and the condition being treated. Some issues resolve in a few sessions, while others may require ongoing care. Michelle will provide an estimate after your initial assessment and will adjust the plan as your recovery progresses.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Absolutely! Physiotherapy can identify and address risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor posture, or movement patterns. Through targeted exercises, education, and ergonomic advice, Michelle aims to help you reduce the risk of injury and recurrence, promoting long-term health.

Does Évolution physiothérapie Laval offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, our clinic offers direct billing for most major private insurance providers, including Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, and Blue Cross. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. If direct billing is not available for your plan, Michelle will provide official receipts for you to submit for reimbursement. It’s important to confirm your coverage and any limits directly with your insurer, as plans vary and you are responsible for any remaining balance.

Évolution physiothérapie Laval
1575, Boulevard de l'Avenir, # 440
Laval, QC H7S 2N5

Phone: (450) 957-1007

Michelle Lortie 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.