Silvanna Rosario Cotrim Cardoso – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Silvanna Rosario Cotrim Cardoso is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at the Institut de cardiologie de Montréal in Montréal, QC, Silvanna is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her role involves assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson’s Disease. Additionally, Silvanna provides specialized care for managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, including COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Her approach involves breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, tailored exercise prescriptions, and patient education to promote optimal recovery and health.

Silvanna’s practice primarily serves adults and seniors, ensuring that her therapies are adapted to meet the specific needs of her diverse patient population. Her comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment plans aim to foster independence, reduce discomfort, and support long-term wellness. With a focus on evidence-based practices, Silvanna emphasizes empowering her patients through education and self-management strategies, enabling them to actively participate in their recovery process and maintain improvements over time.

Silvanna completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing commitment to professional development. She has developed particular expertise in neurological physiotherapy and cardiorespiratory physiotherapy, continuously updating her skills through evidence-based practices. Her practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to continuous learning, preventative care, and fostering a collaborative relationship with her patients. Silvanna is fluent in English, French, and Portuguese, allowing her to effectively communicate with a broad range of patients and their families.

Silvanna Rosario Cotrim Cardoso provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Symptoms such as localized or radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by mechanical compression or irritation of peripheral nerves at specific anatomical sites (entrapment points).
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Addressing the physical consequences of nerve damage in the limbs through targeted exercises (e.g., for balance, strength, desensitization), sensory re-education, and advice on appropriate footwear or assistive devices.

Vestibular Balance

• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): A chronic functional dizziness disorder characterized by persistent sensations of dizziness, unsteadiness, or non-spinning vertigo (often lasting for 3 months or more), typically exacerbated by upright posture, active or passive motion, or exposure to complex or moving visual environments (e.g., busy supermarkets, scrolling on a screen). Often follows an acute vestibular event, medical illness, or period of psychological distress.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Effective, non-invasive treatment for positional dizziness and vertigo using specific head and body movements performed by a trained Vestibular Physiotherapist.

Neurological

• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation for facial nerve disorders to help restore facial expression, improve function (e.g., eating, speaking, eye closure), and enhance overall facial appearance and confidence.
• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Supportive physiotherapy care designed to enhance quality of life, manage the physical challenges of various muscle diseases, and promote independence for as long as possible.

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

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• 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.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• 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 Silvanna. 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 the Institut de cardiologie de Montréal, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Silvanna frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Silvanna can help you move beyond wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night. The focus is on learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as managing the physical demands of your job without constant pain.
• When trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter, physiotherapy with Silvanna can help you work towards feeling significantly stronger and more capable in your physical abilities. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Patients struggling with general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden can find dedicated and compassionate support from Silvanna. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache.

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

Silvanna practices at the Institut de cardiologie de Montréal, situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring that patients from various parts of the city can reach her practice with ease. 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, which is known as direct access. However, while a referral may not be legally required to initiate treatment, some private or extended health insurance plans might require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

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. Silvanna 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.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. It is recommended that you contact your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key points to verify include your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor’s referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If our clinic offers direct billing and your plan permits, we can bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. If direct billing isn't available, we will provide an official receipt for your submission.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

To facilitate your first appointment, please bring your health card, any relevant doctor’s referral, results of imaging tests (X-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds), a list of medications, and your extended health benefits information (insurance card/policy number) if available. Wearing comfortable clothes is also recommended.

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 early in treatment. Usually, these symptoms subside within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience significant or sharp pain, new neurological symptoms, or symptoms that persist longer than expected, contact Silvanna or the clinic directly. They can advise on next steps or adjustments to your treatment plan.

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. Some coverage may exist for specific populations (e.g., post-hospitalization, seniors, low-income individuals) through certain programs, but most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics is paid out-of-pocket or via private insurance. Care received directly within a hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting their specific criteria. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage.

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

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

Institut de cardiologie de Montréal
5000, Rue Bélanger
Montréal, QC H1T 1C8

Phone: (514) 376-3330

Silvanna Rosario Cotrim Cardoso 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.