Sarah El Queisi – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Sarah El Queisi is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Physiothérapie Avantex in Montréal, QC. She is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). With a compassionate approach, Sarah works closely with her patients to understand their unique needs and develop tailored treatment plans aimed at restoring function, alleviating pain, and improving overall well-being.

Sarah's role as a Physiothérapeute encompasses addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and soft tissue conditions. Her expertise includes managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as providing comprehensive care for chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. She is passionate about assisting individuals of all ages—older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors—in recovering mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing their quality of life after neurological events like stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Her goal is to support each patient in achieving their personal health and movement objectives with empathy and professionalism.

With a solid educational background and extensive clinical experience, Sarah completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has since committed herself to ongoing professional development. She has developed particular interests in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Neurological Physiotherapy, ensuring her practices are grounded in evidence-based techniques. Sarah believes in a collaborative approach, working with her patients to set realistic goals and promote long-term wellness. She is fluent in English, French, and Spanish, facilitating effective communication with diverse patient populations in Montréal.

Sarah El Queisi provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Neurological

• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Physiotherapy interventions focusing on large-amplitude movements, rhythmic activities, and strategies to overcome movement difficulties associated with Parkinson's.
• Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: Rehabilitation strategies tailored to the unique and often variable presentation of FND, working collaboratively with the patient to achieve their functional goals.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with MS stay active, manage symptoms effectively, maintain independence for as long as possible, and adapt to changes in their condition.
• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Personalized exercise programs, hands-on therapy, and functional retraining for post-stroke recovery, addressing issues like hemiparesis, spasticity, or neglect.

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.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.

Vestibular Balance

• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): Addressing chronic subjective dizziness and unsteadiness through targeted rehabilitation designed to reduce symptoms and improve functional abilities for individuals with PPPD/3PD.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Physiotherapy aimed at improving your balance, coordination, lower limb strength, reaction time, and confidence to reduce your risk of falling and enhance safe mobility in your home and community.

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

• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): A common physiotherapy treatment for acute injuries, designed to help numb pain, decrease bleeding into the tissues, and minimize secondary hypoxic injury.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.
• 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.
• 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.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Evidence-based neurological rehabilitation focused on harnessing neuroplasticity, motor learning principles, and task-specific training to help regain lost skills and adapt to new ways of moving.

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

• If a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) is preventing you from fully enjoying performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and dexterity with ease, Sarah offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining improved performance in work-related physical demands, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• The journey to reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease when faced with persistent that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit is made smoother and more effective with Sarah's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions.
• Tired of experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy interfering with actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back? Sarah uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Sarah's practice at Physiothérapie Avantex is situated in a modern clinic located in the heart of Montréal's central neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently positioned close to local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access care in a familiar and welcoming environment. Easily reachable via multiple public transit routes, the clinic provides a comfortable setting for individuals seeking physiotherapy services. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiothérapeute can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring 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, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to consult a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is advisable to verify your insurance policy's specifics before your 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, create, and modify treatment plans, including some restricted activities with specific attestations. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician. They apply treatment modalities, guide exercises, and monitor progress but do not diagnose or independently establish treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques used by a Physiothérapeute to assess and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Techniques may include joint mobilization, joint manipulation, soft tissue mobilization like massage or myofascial release, and neural mobilization. The goal is to reduce pain, restore joint motion, decrease muscle tension, and promote tissue healing and optimal function.

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

Coverage varies. In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Certain services within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered depending on eligibility, but private outpatient physiotherapy usually isn't. It’s important to verify your specific eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

Physiothérapie Avantex
1440, rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest, suite 405
Montréal, QC H3G 1R8

Phone: (514) 647-4778 | Website: physioavantex.com

Sarah El Queisi 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.