Nicole Mejia Diestra – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Nicole Mejia Diestra is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal) in Montréal, QC, Nicole 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 listening to her patients' unique needs and tailoring treatments to promote recovery, pain relief, and improved function. With a focus on compassionate care, Nicole strives to create a supportive environment where patients feel empowered and confident in their healing journey.

Nicole's expertise spans a wide spectrum of physiotherapy services, addressing conditions affecting muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. She manages everything from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Her goal is to assist individuals in recovering function, enhancing mobility, managing symptoms, and improving quality of life following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. She works closely with adults and seniors, providing personalized care that respects each patient's pace and goals.

Nicole completed her degree in Physiotherapy with a strong commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. She has cultivated skills and a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as Neurological Physiotherapy. Her practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Montréal community through proactive physiotherapy. Fluent in French, English, and Spanish, Nicole is dedicated to serving a diverse patient population with empathy and cultural sensitivity.

Nicole Mejia Diestra provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Common Msk

• Muscle Strains and Tears: Injury to muscle tissue that limits your strength, range of motion, and ability to perform specific movements or activities, requiring careful rehabilitation.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy management of acute and persistent symptoms of a concussion, including addressing associated neck pain/dysfunction (cervicogenic component), vestibular (balance/dizziness) issues, oculomotor (eye movement) problems, and exertional intolerance.

Arthritis

• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Supportive physiotherapy for individuals with psoriatic arthritis, focusing on managing joint pain and swelling, maintaining range of motion and strength, improving function, and providing advice on activity modification and joint protection.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.

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

• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiothérapeute.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: A non-invasive light therapy used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, promote faster healing, reduce pain, and modulate inflammation without generating heat.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiothérapeute to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Nicole. 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 CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nicole frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many patients have found lasting relief from that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away and achieved regaining full function in an injured area, enabling a return to cherished activities under the skilled care of Nicole. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house with a new lease on life.
• It's truly rewarding for Nicole to witness patients conquer difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke and experience a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in playing your musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods again.
• Living with breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity doesn't have to be your norm. Nicole applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards achieving their specific mobility goals, whether big or small, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of playing a full game of recreational hockey with your friends.

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

Nicole practices at CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal), situated in a modern clinic in the central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is well-connected via multiple public transit routes, ensuring easy access for those using buses and the metro. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

In Québec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance for coverage. Certain care within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if specific eligibility criteria are met. It's important to verify your individual coverage with RAMQ and consult your private insurance provider for reimbursement options.

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

Patients in Québec can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, thanks to the province's direct access policy. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your appointment.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, Nicole will provide a personalized home exercise program. These exercises are designed to target your specific issues and help you reach your recovery goals more effectively. Performing these exercises regularly is essential to maintaining and progressing your improvements.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

The initial appointment, including assessment and treatment planning, usually lasts about 60 minutes. Follow-up visits generally range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your treatment plan and needs.

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 degree, allowing them to assess patients, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and assists physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, applying modalities, and reporting progress. Both roles are vital in delivering comprehensive physiotherapy care.

CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal)
1000, Rue Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1

Phone: (514) 850-8000

Nicole Mejia Diestra 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.