Sonia Bureau – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Sonia Bureau is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Île-de-Montréal (Maisonneuve-Rosemont) in Montréal, QC. Sonia 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). Her role involves delivering comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions, helping patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their overall quality of life. Whether working with athletes, seniors, or individuals recovering from injury, Sonia strives to tailor her approach to meet each patient’s unique needs and goals.
Sonia completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing commitment to professional development and evidence-based practices. She stays current with the latest physiotherapy research and techniques to ensure her patients receive the most effective and innovative care. Her practice philosophy emphasizes empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Sonia believes in a collaborative approach, working closely with her patients to achieve their movement and functional objectives. She is fluent in both English and French, facilitating effective communication with a diverse range of patients.

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

Sports Injury

• Muscle Strains (e.g., Hamstring, Calf, Groin, Quadriceps, Rotator Cuff): Damage to muscle tissue that can range from minor micro-tears to more significant partial or complete tears, impacting strength, power, and range of motion.
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): A common cause of lateral knee pain in athletes, often linked to training errors, muscle imbalances (e.g., weak hip abductors), or poor biomechanics, which physiotherapy aims to address.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): Localized bone pain that typically worsens with activity and is relieved by rest, often accompanied by tenderness to touch over the affected bone.

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: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.
• 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.

Common Msk

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.

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

• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• 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.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Sonia. 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 CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Île-de-Montréal (Maisonneuve-Rosemont), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Sonia frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• The path to recovery from feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older and achieving a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties for going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again often starts with expert guidance. Sonia, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Struggling with the frustration of recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim)? Sonia develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions). This is key to helping you get back to doing doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Patients often come to Sonia feeling defeated by my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being and resuming sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Sonia's practice is located within the CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Île-de-Montréal (Maisonneuve-Rosemont), situated in the central Montréal neighborhood. The clinic is housed in a public healthcare facility that is easily accessible via multiple public transit routes, making it convenient for patients from various parts of the city. The location is close to local community services and pharmacies, providing a comprehensive health and wellness environment. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiothérapeute will conduct a detailed evaluation to get a full picture of your condition. This usually involves a thorough discussion about your symptoms, how they impact your daily life, any relevant medical history, and your personal goals for therapy. A physical assessment will then be performed to help pinpoint the cause of your problem and assess your physical capabilities. Afterwards, your therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a proposed plan of care. You'll likely receive some initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery journey.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can also perform certain advanced procedures if they have the required additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They play a crucial role in delivering care by implementing treatment plans designed by a physiotherapist or physician, assisting patients with their exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising professional.

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 may not be legally required to *see* a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans do require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the requirements of your insurance policy before your appointment.

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 through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private clinic physiotherapy is usually not. It is recommended to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for coverage details.

What are CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal (Maisonneuve-Rosemont)'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 can vary depending on the practitioner and day. Please call our office at (514) 555-1234 or visit our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

Is there parking available at or near CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal (Maisonneuve-Rosemont)?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Alternatively, metered street parking is generally available on nearby streets, and a paid public parkade is located a short walk away. Please check signage for parking restrictions.

CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal (Maisonneuve-Rosemont)
5415, Boulevard de l'Assomption
Montréal, QC H1T 2M4

Phone: (514) 252-3400

Sonia Bureau 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.