Simon Lafrance – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Simon Lafrance is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at École de Réadaptation - Université de Montréal in Montréal, QC. Simon is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered physiotherapy care in a setting that emphasizes performance and athletic achievement. His approach focuses on addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions, from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to managing chronic pain, arthritis, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Simon specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, tailoring each care plan to help athletes of all levels—recreational to elite—return to their sport safely, optimize their performance, and prevent future injuries.
Simon’s professional journey began with completing his degree in Physiotherapy, after which he gained extensive clinical experience. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development, ensuring his practices are grounded in the latest evidence-based methods. Simon has developed particular expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Sports Physiotherapy, enabling him to deliver specialized care for active individuals and athletes. His hands-on approach combines manual therapy, functional movement analysis, and patient education to facilitate effective recovery and performance enhancement.
Simon’s practice philosophy centers on empowering his patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies that promote lasting results. He believes in a collaborative approach, working closely with each individual to develop personalized treatment plans aligned with their goals. Simon is fluent in both English and French, ensuring effective communication and understanding with his diverse patient base. His commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous learning allows him to provide the highest standard of physiotherapy care tailored to performance optimization and athletic success.

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

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy management of acute and persistent symptoms of a concussion, including addressing associated neck pain/dysfunction (cervicogenic component), vestibular (balance/dizziness) issues, oculomotor (eye movement) problems, and exertional intolerance.

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.
• 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.

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

• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Helping you get back in the game quickly and safely with targeted sports physiotherapy, focusing on restoring strength, agility, and confidence.
• 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.
• Gait Analysis & Running/Walking Re-training: Expert analysis of your gait with personalized corrective strategies, exercises, and cues to optimize your walking or running form for pain-free movement and enhanced performance or efficiency.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
• Sports Performance Enhancement & Injury Prevention: Strategies and training programs to fine-tune your physical capabilities, improve sport-specific skills, and ensure you are well-prepared for the demands of your sport.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Simon. 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 École de Réadaptation - Université de Montréal, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Simon frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• If experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy is preventing you from fully enjoying going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again, Simon offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Simon's clinic, common concerns like difficulty coordinating my movements, feeling clumsy are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like playing in your competitive volleyball league again.
• Are you finding that recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee stops you from enjoying getting back to golfing 18 holes without your back acting up? Simon is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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

Simon practices at École de Réadaptation - Université de Montréal, located in the heart of Montréal's central neighborhood. The clinic is situated within a modern, accessible facility at the Maison d'Enseignement, a public institution dedicated to health sciences education. Its central location ensures easy access for patients from across the city, with proximity to local community services and pharmacies. The clinic is well-connected via public transit routes, making it convenient for patients to reach. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance plans. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is advisable to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private health insurance for coverage options.

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, allowing them to assess patients, make diagnoses, and develop treatment plans independently. They can perform advanced procedures with additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma focused on technical application, assisting physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, helping patients with exercises, and reporting progress.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques used by Physiothérapeutes to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This includes joint mobilization, joint manipulation, soft tissue techniques like massage and myofascial release, and neural mobilization. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, restore joint mechanics, and promote tissue healing.

What are École de Réadaptation - Université de Montréal's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some practitioners offering Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours may vary by practitioner and day. Please contact the clinic at (514) 123-4567 or visit our website for the most current schedule.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider before your appointment.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at École de Réadaptation - Université de Montréal treat?

Our physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues such as back and neck pain, joint problems, sports injuries, ligament sprains, post-surgical recoveries, and nerve pain. They focus on restoring function, reducing pain, and optimizing athletic performance through tailored treatment strategies.

École de Réadaptation - Université de Montréal
C.P. 6128, succursale Centre-ville
Montréal, QC H3C 3J7

Phone: (438) 863-3995

Simon Lafrance 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.