Sofia Saakova – Physiotherapy Technologist | Lachine, QC

Sofia Saakova is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at Action Sport Physio (Lachine) in Lachine, QC, Sofia is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role primarily involves assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by a physiotherapist or physician, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Sofia's approach emphasizes personalized care, ensuring each patient receives tailored interventions that promote healing, improve mobility, and restore confidence in their physical abilities.

Sofia completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that underscores her commitment to ongoing professional development. She continuously updates her knowledge base and skill set to incorporate evidence-based practices into her daily work. Sofia has developed particular expertise in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application like ultrasound and electrotherapy, and patient monitoring to ensure optimal treatment outcomes. Her dedication to excellence ensures that her patients benefit from the most current and effective physiotherapy techniques available.

With a philosophy rooted in a collaborative approach, Sofia works closely with her patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. She strongly believes in promoting preventative care and long-term wellness through proactive physiotherapy interventions. Sofia is fluent in French, English, and Russian, enabling her to effectively communicate with a diverse patient demographic and ensure that language barriers do not impede the delivery of quality care.

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

Common Msk

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Pain, swelling, clicking, locking, or instability in or around the knee joint from various causes like ligament sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL), meniscal tears (managed conservatively), or patellofemoral (kneecap) pain.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.

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

• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.

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

• Patients often come to Sofia feeling defeated by soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey and resuming getting back to your regular, consistent gym workouts becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Many find that tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot significantly impacts their ability to getting back to golfing 18 holes without your back acting up. Sofia helps patients target better managing flare-ups with personalized strategies and feeling more in control of their symptoms with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• It's truly rewarding for Sofia to witness patients conquer that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away and experience increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in operating machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work again.

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

Action Sport Physio (Lachine), where Sofia practices, is situated in the heart of the central Lachine neighborhood of Lachine, QC. The clinic is housed within a modern private facility that offers a welcoming environment for patients seeking physiotherapy services. Its convenient location allows easy access to local community services, pharmacies, and other health providers. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring that patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 typically pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance for coverage. Public physiotherapy services may be available through hospitals, CLSCs, or specific programs for certain populations, but private outpatient services usually require private insurance reimbursement. Patients are advised to verify their specific eligibility with RAMQ and consult their private insurance plans for coverage details.

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 diagnoses, and develop treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma (DEC) and focuses on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments, assisting physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, guiding exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques used by a Physiotherapy Technologist to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Techniques include joint mobilization, joint manipulation, soft tissue mobilization like massage and myofascial release, and neural mobilization. The primary aims are to reduce pain, restore joint mechanics, decrease muscle tension, and promote tissue healing.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician’s referral, known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider prior to your appointment to confirm coverage requirements.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your initial visit, Sofia will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including a detailed discussion about your symptoms, medical history, and goals. A physical examination will follow to identify the underlying issues and evaluate your movement capabilities. She will then explain her findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a tailored plan. You may also receive initial exercises or hands-on treatment to start your recovery process.

Action Sport Physio (Lachine)
2675, rue Victoria, Local B
Lachine, QC H8S 0A7

Phone: (514) 400-9001

Sofia Saakova 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.