About
Richard Xiao is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Kinatex Sports Physio Dorval in Dorval, QC. He is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Richard’s approach focuses on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions, emphasizing evidence-based practices to promote optimal recovery and wellness. He works closely with adult patients, tailoring individualized treatment plans to meet their specific needs and functional goals, whether it involves acute injury management, chronic pain relief, or post-surgical rehabilitation.
With a solid educational background in physiotherapy and extensive clinical experience, Richard Xiao has developed particular expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. He continually pursues professional development to stay current with the latest techniques and treatment modalities. Richard’s commitment to ongoing learning ensures that his patients benefit from the most effective and innovative therapies available, including manual therapy, electrotherapy, and therapeutic modalities such as Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) and ultrasound.
Richard's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies. He believes in promoting preventative care and long-term wellness, fostering a collaborative environment where patients feel informed and supported throughout their recovery journey. Richard is fluent in English, French, and Mandarin, allowing him to serve a diverse community in Dorval with culturally sensitive and accessible care.
Richard Xiao provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Back Neck Pain
- Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
- 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.
Common Msk
- Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Discomfort felt around the shoulder blade, at the top of the shoulder, or radiating down the arm, making simple tasks challenging.
- Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.
- Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.
Post Surgical
- Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A tailored physiotherapy program following hip joint replacement to optimize your recovery, manage pain, ensure adherence to any precautions, and facilitate a return to an active lifestyle.
- Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Targeted physiotherapy to help you recover from operatively treated fractures, addressing common issues like joint stiffness, muscle weakness, swelling, pain, and functional limitations in the affected limb.
- Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Specialized physiotherapy focused on regaining shoulder movement, strength, stability, and function after various types of shoulder surgeries, such as rotator cuff repair, labral tear repair, shoulder stabilization procedures (e.g., Bankart repair), or shoulder joint replacement (arthroplasty).
- Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: A structured, progressive, and goal-oriented physiotherapy rehabilitation program crucial for restoring knee stability, strength, range of motion, and proprioception (joint position sense) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or other knee ligament (e.g., PCL, MCL, LCL) reconstructive surgery.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Richard can assess your needs.
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
- Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
- 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.
- 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.
- Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
- 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.
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 Kinatex Sports Physio Dorval, 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:
- Rediscover your ability to cycling longer distances with your cycling club without the constant burden of breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity. Richard focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to better joint stability during movement and weight-bearing activities, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
- It's truly rewarding for Richard to witness patients conquer pain in their shins when they try to run or be active (shin splints) and experience decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in family outings and vacations without holding others back again.
- For those with widespread muscle pain and fatigue that their doctor suspects might be fibromyalgia, Richard's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward better understanding ergonomics for their work and home environment. Effective, evidence-based treatments can help you walk up and down stairs with greater comfort and confidence.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Richard, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Richard practices at Kinatex Sports Physio Dorval, situated in a modern clinic located in the heart of the Dorval community. The clinic is conveniently positioned in the central Dorval neighborhood, close to local community services and pharmacies. It is easily accessible via multiple public transit routes, making it convenient for patients to attend their appointments. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.
- 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).
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiothérapeute in QC?
- Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, which is known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to initiate physiotherapy, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm coverage details.
- Does Kinatex Sports Physio Dorval offer direct billing to private insurance companies?
- Yes, Kinatex Sports Physio Dorval 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 your appointment. While we handle billing directly with your insurer for covered services, it is recommended to verify your specific coverage, limits, and any co-payments or deductibles with your insurance provider prior to your visit. Patients are responsible for any charges not covered by their insurance.
- Is physiotherapy covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- Generally, physiotherapy services performed in private clinics are not directly covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance for these services. Certain care received within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if specific criteria are met. It is advisable to verify your eligibility for any public coverage directly with RAMQ and always check your private insurance plans for comprehensive physiotherapy coverage.
- What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at Kinatex Sports Physio Dorval treat?
- Richard and his team treat a wide array of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues like back and neck pain, joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, and nerve pain. They also address conditions requiring application of technical and mobility aids, and some therapists have specialized skills in areas like pelvic health. Their treatments often incorporate modalities like Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), therapeutic heat, manual therapy, and patient education to facilitate functional recovery and pain relief.
Kinatex Sports Physio Dorval
990, Chemin Herron, # 300
Dorval, QC H9S 1B3
Phone: (514) 360-0595
Richard Xiao 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.