Rachel Cadotte – Physiotherapist | Laval, QC

Rachel Cadotte is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation in Laval, QC, Rachel is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role involves assisting 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. Rachel offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues, with the goal of reducing symptoms, improving stability, and minimizing fall risk.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy, Rachel completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. She has developed particular expertise and interest in neurological physiotherapy and vestibular and balance rehabilitation, enabling her to provide tailored interventions for complex cases. Rachel’s approach emphasizes personalized care, understanding each patient's unique needs and challenges, and delivering therapies that promote independence and improved quality of life.

Rachel believes in a collaborative, patient-centered philosophy where individuals are actively involved in their treatment planning and goal setting. She works closely with her patients to develop achievable, meaningful goals that align with their lifestyles and aspirations. Fluent in both English and French, Rachel is able to communicate effectively with a diverse range of patients, ensuring clear understanding and engagement throughout the rehabilitation process.

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

Vestibular Balance

• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, including habituation exercises, sensory re-weighting, and balance training, often as part of a multidisciplinary approach (which may include medication or CBT), for managing the symptoms of PPPD/3PD.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): A common cause of vertigo that is highly treatable with specific physiotherapy maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver or Semont maneuver, designed to reposition the displaced inner ear crystals.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Comprehensive balance assessment by a Physiotherapist to identify underlying causes of unsteadiness, followed by targeted exercise programs and strategies to help you stay steady on your feet.

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Alleviating symptoms and improving function for individuals with entrapped nerves through conservative physiotherapy management, helping to avoid more invasive interventions.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Physiotherapy focuses on improving balance, strength, sensation (where possible), reducing fall risk, managing pain, and providing education on foot care (especially for diabetic neuropathy) and adaptive strategies.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

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

• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Specialized assessment and treatment techniques, such as canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - BPPV), to address symptoms of dizziness, vertigo (spinning sensations), and imbalance caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Effective virtual physiotherapy care to help you manage your condition, progress your rehabilitation, and receive professional advice when in-person visits are challenging or not preferred.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Comprehensive care for concussion recovery, including initial assessment of symptoms (headache, dizziness, etc.), management of associated neck pain or dysfunction, vestibular and oculomotor (eye movement) rehabilitation, and guided, gradual return-to-learn, work, and sport protocols.
• 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).
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Convenient and effective physiotherapy care delivered in your home by a qualified Physiotherapist, focusing on your specific goals and challenges.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Rachel. 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 CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Rachel frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Rachel can help you move beyond trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip. The focus is on achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run? Rachel works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of improved ability to lift and carry objects correctly and safely. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as working on detailed woodworking projects in your shop without hand pain.
• Patients often come to Rachel 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 enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation and resuming challenging myself with indoor or outdoor rock climbing becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Rachel practices at the CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation, situated in the Chomedey East neighborhood of Laval. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Gare Chomedey (future station) and is easily accessible via the Société de transport de Laval (STL). The clinic is designed to accommodate patients with mobility challenges, ensuring comfort and ease of access. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to initiate physiotherapy, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's note for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance provider before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

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 and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnose, develop treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions independently. In contrast, a Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision or treatment plan established by a physiotherapist or physician. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

Generally, physiotherapy services in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ in Quebec. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some coverage may be available if the care is received in a hospital or CLSC meeting specific criteria. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your initial appointment involves a comprehensive assessment, including a discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, and functional goals. The physiotherapist will perform a physical examination, evaluate your movement, strength, and balance, and then discuss a personalized treatment plan. They may initiate some treatment and provide education or exercises to start your recovery journey.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation treat?

Our Physiothérapeutes treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes back and neck pain, joint issues such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, nerve pain, and neurological conditions like stroke, MS, or Parkinson's disease. Treatments often involve vestibular rehabilitation, manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education tailored to individual needs.

CISSS de Laval - Hôpital Juif de réadaptation
3205, Place Alton-Goldbloom
Laval, QC H7V 1R2

Phone: (450) 688-9550

Rachel Cadotte 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.