Nicholas Berghuis – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Nicholas Berghuis is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Hôpital général juif / Jewish General Hospital in Montréal, QC, Nicholas is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. His approach focuses on addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Nicholas aims to assist 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. He serves a diverse patient population, including older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring personalized and compassionate care for everyone.
With a solid educational foundation, Nicholas completed his degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels his ongoing professional development. He is deeply committed to evidence-based practices and continuously refines his skills, with particular interests in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Neurological Physiotherapy. Nicholas believes in a collaborative approach, working closely with his patients to develop tailored treatment plans that promote healing and long-term wellness. His dedication to achieving positive outcomes is evident in his attentive, empathetic manner and his focus on empowering patients through education and practical self-management strategies.
Nicholas’s practice philosophy centers around promoting preventative care and long-term health. He emphasizes the importance of proactive physiotherapy to maintain optimal function and prevent future issues. Through clear communication, patient education, and a supportive environment, Nicholas strives to help his patients reach their movement and functional goals. Fluent in both English and French, Nicholas ensures effective communication and personalized care for Montréal’s diverse community, fostering trust and confidence in his therapeutic relationship.

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

Neurological

• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Physiotherapy aimed at maximizing functional independence, mobility (e.g., transfers, wheelchair skills, ambulation if appropriate), strength, range of motion, and managing secondary complications (e.g., pain, spasticity, respiratory issues) for individuals with incomplete or specific types of spinal cord injuries. Often part of a multidisciplinary team approach.
• 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.

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy for concussion recovery, focusing on symptom management, restoring normal function, and preventing long-term complications through evidence-based interventions.

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

• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• 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).
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Nicholas. 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 Hôpital général juif / Jewish General Hospital, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nicholas frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Tired of pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) interfering with simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around your neighborhood for fresh air? Nicholas uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness and regain your freedom of movement.
• When needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing getting back to your regular, consistent gym workouts, physiotherapy with Nicholas can help you work towards learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Patients often come to Nicholas feeling defeated by trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints and resuming enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Nicholas practices at the Hôpital général juif / Jewish General Hospital, situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. His clinic is located within the Clinique externe de centre hospitalier, a modern facility easily accessible via various public transit routes. The location is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it simple for patients to combine their physiotherapy sessions with other appointments or errands. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Does Hôpital général juif / Jewish General Hospital offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Hôpital général juif / Jewish General Hospital offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. It is recommended to verify your coverage with your insurer beforehand, as some plans may have specific requirements or limitations. Patients are responsible for any portion not covered by their insurance.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ provides limited coverage for some physiotherapy services, typically after hospital discharge or for specific low-income individuals and seniors through particular programs. Most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics is not directly covered by RAMQ for the general population. Patients should check current RAMQ details and their private insurance plans for coverage options.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, Nicholas will conduct a detailed evaluation of your condition, including a discussion about your symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. A physical assessment will follow to identify the underlying causes and assess your mobility and strength. Based on this, Nicholas will explain his findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a personalized plan. You may receive initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to start your recovery.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician’s referral, known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy beforehand to confirm specific requirements.

What are Hôpital général juif / Jewish General Hospital's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some practitioners offering Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours can vary depending on the practitioner and day. Please contact the clinic or visit our website for the most current hours and availability.

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, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and supports physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, and applying modalities under supervision. Both roles are essential in delivering effective physiotherapy care.

Hôpital général juif / Jewish General Hospital
3755, Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine
Montréal, QC H3T 1E2

Phone: (514) 340-8222

Nicholas Berghuis 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.