Richard Hamelin – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Richard Hamelin is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Action Sport Physio (Marché Central) in Montréal, QC. With a strong commitment to high-quality, patient-centered care, Richard aligns his practice with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). His approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs, promoting optimal recovery and wellness within a supportive community environment.

Richard's physiotherapy expertise encompasses addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including issues related to muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. His scope of practice includes managing acute injuries like sprains and strains, chronic pain conditions, arthritis, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Additionally, Richard provides specialized assessment and treatment for jaw pain (TMJ/TMD), orofacial pain, and various types of headaches with a musculoskeletal component, such as cervicogenic or tension headaches. He serves adults and seniors, ensuring accessible and compassionate care for all stages of life.

Having completed his degree in Physiotherapy, Richard combines clinical experience with a commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. He has developed particular interest and expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as TMJ, headache, and orofacial pain physiotherapy. Richard’s philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness, empowering his patients through education and practical self-management strategies. Fluent in English and French, Richard is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community atmosphere in his practice.

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

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.
• 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: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.

Hand & Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Helping to alleviate the symptoms of a catching, locking, or painful finger/thumb through targeted physiotherapy interventions, potentially avoiding the need for injections or surgery in some cases.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.

TMJ & Headache

• Tinnitus (Musculoskeletal/TMJ-Related): Ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other noises perceived in one or both ears that are not caused by an external sound. In some cases (somatic tinnitus), these symptoms can be influenced by or linked to problems in the jaw (TMJ), neck (cervical spine), or surrounding muscles that physiotherapy can address.
• Cervicogenic Headaches: Physiotherapy for headaches that are referred from structures in your neck, involving a thorough assessment to identify the neck source and targeted treatments to alleviate it.

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

• Dry Needling / Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS): A skilled intervention where a Physiothérapeute inserts fine, sterile needles (without medication) into myofascial trigger points, tight muscle bands, or near nerves to reduce pain, decrease muscle tension, improve blood flow, and restore normal muscle function and movement. (Requires specific post-graduate certification).
• Acupuncture (Medical or Traditional): Acupuncture as a complementary therapy used by trained physiotherapists to address a variety of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, stimulating the body's natural pain-relieving and healing mechanisms.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Richard. 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 Action Sport Physio (Marché Central), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Richard frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Struggling with the frustration of persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady? Richard develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving their specific mobility goals, whether big or small. This is key to helping you get back to doing playing in your competitive volleyball league again with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Rediscover your ability to operate machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work without the constant burden of my child walking on their toes most of the time. Richard focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to noticeable strength gains in their limbs, supporting more demanding tasks, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Richard believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) is hindering your ability to easily carry groceries in from the car in one or two trips, a personalized plan focusing on a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence can make all the difference.

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

Richard practices at Action Sport Physio (Marché Central), located in the heart of Montréal in a central neighborhood that offers convenience and accessibility. The clinic is situated within a modern facility close to local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to combine their physiotherapy visits with other errands. The location is well-served by public transit routes, ensuring easy access whether you are arriving by bus or metro. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiothérapeute uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiothérapeute will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

Does Action Sport Physio (Marché Central) offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Action Sport Physio (Marché Central) offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to facilitate the process. However, it is always advisable to verify your specific coverage with your insurer beforehand, as plans can vary. If direct billing is not available for your plan, Richard's team provides detailed receipts that you can submit for reimbursement.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) focusing on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They assist physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, helping patients with exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check your insurance policy beforehand to understand any requirements for coverage.

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

It is common to experience mild soreness or increased symptoms after physiotherapy, especially when starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience sharp or worsening pain, neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness, or if soreness persists longer than expected, contact Richard or your local clinic promptly for reassessment and guidance.

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. Coverage may be available if the care is received within a public hospital or CLSC under specific circumstances. Most patients pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance for private clinic physiotherapy. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage details.

Action Sport Physio (Marché Central)
9001, Boulevard de l'Acadie, # 110
Montréal, QC H4N 3H7

Phone: (514) 665-7082

Richard Hamelin 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.