Paola Campana-Tissakht – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Paola Campana-Tissakht is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal in Montréal, QC, Paola is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her role involves assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Additionally, Paola addresses a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including acute injuries like sprains and strains, chronic pain conditions, arthritis management, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. She serves adults and seniors, tailoring her approach to meet each patient's unique needs and goals.

Paola's educational background includes completing a degree in Physiotherapy, with ongoing professional development to stay current with evidence-based practices. Her clinical experience has fostered a particular interest and expertise in Neurological Physiotherapy and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal physiotherapy, ensuring a thorough and specialized approach to her treatments. She emphasizes a holistic, collaborative philosophy, working closely with her patients to develop personalized treatment plans that foster confidence and independence.

Fluent in English, French, and Italian, Paola communicates effectively with a diverse patient population. Her practice philosophy centers on a collaborative approach, empowering patients through education and practical self-management strategies. She actively involves individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting, ensuring meaningful and lasting health outcomes.

Paola Campana-Tissakht provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal surgery.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Physiotherapy aimed at restoring movement, strength, and function after surgical repair of broken bones (e.g., Open Reduction Internal Fixation - ORIF, intramedullary nailing), once the fracture site is sufficiently healed and cleared for rehabilitation by your surgeon.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A tailored physiotherapy program following hip joint replacement to optimize your recovery, manage pain, ensure adherence to any precautions, and facilitate a return to an active lifestyle.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

Neurological

• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Specialized neurorehabilitation programs designed by a Physiotherapist to improve physical function, optimize movement potential, and enhance quality of life for individuals living with an SCI.
• 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.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Focusing on restoring movement, balance, and independence after a traumatic or acquired brain injury through evidence-based physiotherapy approaches.
• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: May include specific facial exercises, neuromuscular re-education (PNF for the face), biofeedback, electrical stimulation (if appropriate), massage, and strategies to improve facial movement, symmetry, reduce synkinesis (unwanted movements), and manage eye care.

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

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Targeted exercises and strategies designed by your Physiotherapist to improve your stability, coordination, lower limb strength, and body awareness (proprioception), thereby reducing your risk of falls, particularly beneficial for older adults or individuals with balance impairments.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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

• Many individuals seek help from Paola, their physiotherapist, when my child walking on their toes most of the time starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve a more comfortable and physically manageable pregnancy experience, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity? Paola works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout.
• If loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury is preventing you from fully enjoying dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations, Paola 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.

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

Paola practices at the Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, situated in a modern clinic located in the central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently positioned 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 accessible transportation options for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 rely on private insurance plans. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if specific criteria are met. It is important for patients to verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and to consult their private extended health insurance plans for coverage options.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The initial appointment primarily involves a comprehensive assessment. Expect to discuss your medical history, current concerns, and treatment goals with Paola. She will then perform physical examinations to evaluate movement, strength, and areas of concern. This session aims to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include initial hands-on techniques and home exercises to support your recovery.

What is the difference between a Physiothérapeute and a Technologue en physiothérapie in Quebec?

A Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnosis, and develop treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises without independently diagnosing or creating treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

If you experience a significant increase in pain, new neurological symptoms, or if soreness persists beyond 48 hours, contact Paola or the clinic directly. Temporary soreness is common, but persistent or worsening symptoms require reassessment to modify your treatment plan if necessary.

Is there parking available at or near Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside the clinic. Additional street parking may be available, but please check local signage for restrictions.

How can I book an appointment at Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal?

You can call the clinic directly at (514) 340-2800 during business hours or book online through our website. Our friendly staff will assist you in scheduling an appointment with Paola at a convenient time.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a physiotherapist directly without a referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a physician’s referral for reimbursement. It is advisable to check your insurance policy’s requirements before your appointment.

Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal
4565, Chemin Queen-Mary
Montréal, QC H3W 1W5

Phone: (514) 340-2800

Paola Campana-Tissakht 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.