Rachel Rivard – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Rachel Rivard is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Université de Montréal in Montréal, QC, Rachel is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach focuses on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, ensuring personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. Rachel’s expertise includes managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic conditions like arthritis, providing comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation, and assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing their overall quality of life. Her clinical philosophy emphasizes evidence-based practices and ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in physiotherapy.

With extensive clinical experience, Rachel has developed specialized skills in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, alongside a strong focus on Neurological Physiotherapy. She is committed to continuous learning and applying the most effective, research-supported interventions. Rachel’s goal is to empower her patients through education, active participation, and tailored therapeutic strategies that promote optimal recovery and long-term wellness.

Rachel is fluent in English and French, facilitating clear communication and personalized care for a diverse patient population. Her practice is characterized by a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to set realistic goals and achieve meaningful outcomes. Rachel’s dedication to excellence ensures that each individual receives compassionate, effective, and professional physiotherapy services.

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

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.
• 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.
• 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.

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): 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.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Post-traumatic neck pain, restricted movement, and associated issues common after car accidents, which benefit from early and appropriate physiotherapy intervention.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Muscular pain, trigger points, and tension headaches resulting from habitual poor posture, which can be addressed with postural re-education, exercises, and ergonomic advice.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).

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

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: The use of moist heat packs, paraffin wax, or other heat sources by your Physiotherapist to relax muscles, increase local blood flow, reduce stiffness, alleviate chronic pain, and improve tissue extensibility.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Specialized therapeutic interventions provided by a Neuro Physiotherapist to assist individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, balance, coordination, strength, and independence following a neurological event or diagnosis.

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 Université de Montréal, 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:

• Patients often come to Rachel feeling defeated by awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis). With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues and resuming keeping up with your team during our weekly soccer match becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Many find that that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder significantly impacts their ability to managing your personal care routines independently. Rachel helps patients target sleeping more soundly through the night due to reduced pain and discomfort with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• If dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women) is preventing you from fully enjoying maintaining your balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails, Rachel offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Rachel practices at the Université de Montréal, situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. The clinic is within a private educational environment, providing a professional and focused setting for physiotherapy care. Conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, the clinic is easily accessible via multiple public transit routes. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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).

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

In Quebec, most physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ, and patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting specific criteria. For outpatient private physiotherapy services, it is essential to check with your private insurance provider regarding coverage. Patients are advised to verify their eligibility and coverage details directly with RAMQ and their private insurance plans.

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.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute without a physician's referral, as direct access is permitted. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to verify the specific requirements of your insurance plan before your first appointment.

What are Université de Montréal's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office or check our website for the most current schedule and practitioner availability.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, or if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle within a day or two, please contact us. Your Physiothérapeute would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is essential for your successful recovery.

Université de Montréal
7077, Avenue du Parc
Montréal, QC H3N 1X7

Phone: (514) 343-6416

Rachel Rivard 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.