Soomin Lee – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Soomin Lee is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CUSM - Hôpital général de Montréal in Montréal, QC, Soomin is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. With a focus on assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease, Soomin provides comprehensive rehabilitation tailored to each patient's needs. She also specializes in managing acute and chronic cardiorespiratory conditions, including COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Her approach involves breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, exercise prescription, and patient education, aiming to optimize respiratory function and overall physical health. Serving adults and seniors, Soomin's care emphasizes empowering her patients to regain independence and achieve their athletic and functional goals.

Soomin completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that underscores her commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. She has developed particular expertise and interest in neurological and cardiorespiratory physiotherapy, continually updating her skills through specialized training and certifications. Her dedication to excellence ensures that her patients receive the most current and effective interventions to facilitate recovery and performance enhancement.

Soomin’s practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. She adopts a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in treatment planning and goal setting to foster motivation and adherence. Fluent in English, French, and Korean, Soomin effectively communicates with diverse patient populations, ensuring comprehensive understanding and support throughout the rehabilitation process.

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

Neurological

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Tailored rehabilitation programs focusing on restoring physical abilities, managing secondary complications, and improving quality of life for individuals post-TBI or ABI.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Comprehensive physiotherapy focusing on improving strength in available muscles, enhancing functional mobility, and promoting health and wellness after a spinal cord injury.

Cardioresp

• Post-Pneumonia / Respiratory Infection Recovery: Physiotherapy to aid your recovery from serious respiratory illnesses and their lingering effects on your breathing and overall physical capacity.
• Bronchiectasis Management (Airway Clearance): Teaching and supervising various airway clearance techniques (ACTs) and devices (e.g., PEP devices, Acapella, Flutter, postural drainage, active cycle of breathing techniques - ACBT) to help individuals with bronchiectasis clear lung secretions effectively, reduce infection risk, and improve breathing.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Management (e.g., Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema): Physiotherapy interventions for individuals with chronic bronchitis or emphysema, focusing on improving lung function, reducing breathlessness, and increasing ability to perform daily activities.

Post Surgical

• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): The crucial rehabilitation phase following total or partial knee replacement surgery, with physiotherapy focusing on restoring range of motion, building strength, improving balance, managing pain and swelling, and enabling functional mobility (e.g., walking, stairs, getting in/out of a car).
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): A progressive rehabilitation program after surgery to fix a broken bone, helping you regain full use of your arm or leg and return to your normal activities.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy following knee ligament reconstruction surgery to ensure a successful recovery, minimize complications (like stiffness or muscle atrophy), and facilitate a safe and confident return to activity and sport, preventing re-injury.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Guidance on hip precautions (if applicable for your surgical approach), a progressive exercise program, and functional retraining after hip surgery to help you achieve your goals.

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

• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• 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.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Providing professional physiotherapy assessment, treatment, education, and exercise prescription directly in the comfort and convenience of your home environment, especially for those who have difficulty attending an outpatient clinic due to mobility issues, severe pain, or other constraints.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke and achieved a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being under the skilled care of Soomin. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture with a new lease on life.
• For those whose difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain has made getting back to your regular, consistent gym workouts seem like a distant memory, Soomin's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to getting back to your regular, consistent gym workouts with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• At Soomin's physiotherapy practice, individuals with tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot are guided towards feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as playing your musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods.

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

Soomin practices at CUSM - Hôpital général de Montréal, situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. The clinic is housed within a public healthcare facility that offers convenient access for patients from various parts of the city. Located near local community services and pharmacies, it is easily reachable via multiple public transit routes. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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?

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It’s advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance provider before scheduling your appointment.

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

Generally, physiotherapy services in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some services received within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered, depending on eligibility. It’s recommended to verify your specific coverage with RAMQ and your insurance provider.

Is there parking available at or near CUSM - Hôpital général de Montréal?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Additional street parking may be available on surrounding streets, and there is a paid public parkade nearby. Please check local signage for restrictions and hours.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

If your pain significantly worsens, or if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if discomfort persists beyond a day or two, contact Soomin promptly. It’s important to communicate any changes so she can adjust your treatment plan accordingly. Remember, some soreness after treatment can be normal, but persistent or severe pain warrants professional attention.

CUSM - Hôpital général de Montréal
1650, Avenue Cedar
Montréal, QC H3G 1A4

Phone: (514) 934-1934

Soomin Lee 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.