Pierre Gastaldello – Physiotherapist | Sherbrooke, QC

Pierre Gastaldello is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Cégep de Sherbrooke in Sherbrooke, QC, Pierre is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. With a focus on addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions, Pierre provides comprehensive physiotherapy services. His approach includes managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain conditions, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Pierre specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, tailoring care to help athletes of all levels—from recreational enthusiasts to elite competitors—return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries. He serves children, adolescents, and adults, ensuring personalized treatment plans that meet individual needs and goals.

Pierre Gastaldello completed his degree in Physiotherapy with a strong foundation in evidence-based practices and clinical experience. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development, regularly updating his skills to incorporate the latest advancements in physiotherapy. Pierre has developed particular expertise and interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as Sports Physiotherapy, allowing him to effectively address complex cases and provide specialized care for active individuals and athletes.

His practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Pierre adopts a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Fluent in both English and French, Pierre ensures effective communication and support for a diverse patient population, fostering a collaborative environment aimed at achieving optimal health outcomes.

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

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.

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.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.

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

• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Utilizing electrophysical agents as an adjunct to your physiotherapy treatments to aid recovery, improve muscle function, manage pain, or reduce swelling, tailored to your specific condition.
• Orthopedic Bracing & Support Consultation/Fitting: Assessment by your Physiotherapist for and fitting of orthopedic braces or supports (custom or off-the-shelf) to stabilize joints, manage injuries (e.g., ligament tears, osteoarthritis, instability), protect healing tissues, and facilitate safe activity participation.
• 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.
• Custom Foot Orthotic Assessment & Prescription (if offered/certified): Providing individualized foot supports created from a precise mold of your feet to improve comfort, alignment, reduce pain, and enhance function during walking, running, or standing.
• Therapeutic & Athletic Taping (e.g., Kinesio, McConnell, Rigid): Taping strategies implemented by your Physiotherapist to aid in injury management, provide stability during activity, offload sensitive tissues, and promote optimal biomechanics.

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

• At Pierre's physiotherapy practice, individuals with wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night are guided towards greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating your back.
• Living with experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy doesn't have to be your norm. Pierre applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of participating fully in your martial arts practice, including sparring.
• Are you finding that shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult stops you from enjoying managing your personal care routines independently? Pierre is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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

Practicing at the Cégep de Sherbrooke, Pierre's clinic is situated in the Les Nations (Downtown East) neighborhood of Sherbrooke. The facility is conveniently located near the Commercial Corridor North, making it easy for patients to access. The clinic is well-connected via the Société de transport de Sherbrooke (STS), ensuring accessible transportation options. 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. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private outpatient physiotherapy is typically not reimbursed by RAMQ. Patients should verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult their private insurance plans for coverage options.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be an ordeal of pain. While some discomfort or a stretching sensation may occur during treatment, especially when working on acute injuries or stiffness, it is rarely painful in a harmful way. Pierre will guide you through each step, modifying treatments to ensure your comfort and tolerance. The goal is to facilitate recovery and improve your well-being without causing unnecessary pain.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see 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 before your first appointment to confirm their requirements.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurance provider before your first visit to understand your coverage limits, co-payments, and whether a referral is needed. If your plan permits, our clinic can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion, with you responsible for any remaining balance. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment.

What is the difference between a Physiotherapist (Physiothérapeute) and a Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) in Quebec?

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, and create treatment plans. They can perform certain restricted activities with specific attestations. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments but not diagnosing or independently planning care. Both are regulated professionals under the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Cégep de Sherbrooke
475, Rue du Cégep
Sherbrooke, QC J1E 4K1

Phone: (819) 566-7192

Pierre Gastaldello 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.