Patricia Spencer – Physiotherapist | Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC

Patricia Spencer is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Catalyst Santé Inc. in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC. She is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Patricia’s approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s specific needs, ensuring a comprehensive and effective rehabilitation process.

Patricia’s physiotherapy practice encompasses addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. Her expertise includes managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain conditions, arthritis, and postoperative rehabilitation. She also offers specialized assessment and treatment for vestibular disorders, including dizziness and vertigo, aiming to reduce symptoms, improve balance, and minimize fall risk. Patricia serves a diverse patient demographic, including older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Patricia has developed particular interest and skills in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, along with Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. Her practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness through education, manual therapy, and evidence-based interventions. Patricia is fluent in English and French, facilitating effective communication with a broad patient base.

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

Neurological

• 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.
• 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.

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

• 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.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Helping you regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve function in affected joints after a gout episode, as part of your overall gout management plan.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Individualized exercise programs and pain management strategies tailored for psoriatic arthritis to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Helping you live well with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies through targeted physiotherapy interventions designed to manage symptoms, preserve function, and promote overall well-being.

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

• 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.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Baseline concussion testing (if offered by the clinic/practitioner) and evidence-based post-injury management to ensure a safe and effective recovery from mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI).
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.

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

• Living with recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) doesn't have to be your norm. Patricia applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of feeling energetic enough to engage in social activities in the evenings.
• If that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees is preventing you from fully enjoying running your usual 5k route without knee pain, Patricia offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Many find that a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) significantly impacts their ability to engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours. Patricia helps patients target feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Patricia practices at Catalyst Santé Inc., located in the central neighborhood of Dollard-des-Ormeaux. The clinic is situated within a private healthcare facility that is easily accessible and conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies. The location is well-served by public transit routes, making it easy for patients to attend appointments. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, and street parking as well as nearby paid parking lots provide ample options for visitors seeking convenient parking solutions.

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).

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiothérapeute will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be an ordeal of pain. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation as you work to regain movement or strength, especially in the initial stages of treatment for an acute injury or chronic stiffness, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiothérapeute will guide you through each step, modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance, and ensure that the overall experience is positive. The ultimate aim is to make you feel better, not worse.

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

In Quebec, most physiotherapy services in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ, and patients generally pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some services provided within public hospitals or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. Patients should verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult their private extended health insurance plans for coverage details, as many policies include physiotherapy benefits.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access 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 with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm any specific requirements.

Catalyst Santé Inc.
475, Avenue Westminster
Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC H9G 2S3

Phone: (514) 421-2324 | Website: https://www.catalystsante.com/en/home/

Patricia Spencer 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.