Sophia Zinno – Physiotherapy Technologist | Côte-Saint-Luc, QC

Sophia Zinno is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CENTRE GERIATRIQUE MAIMONIDES in Côte-Saint-Luc, QC, Sophia is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. With a focus on assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by a physiotherapist or physician, Sophia guides patients through therapeutic exercises and applies various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Her approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, emphasizing safety, efficacy, and active patient participation.

Sophia's role extends to serving primarily senior patients, ensuring they receive optimal physiotherapy support to enhance mobility, manage pain, and maintain independence. Her clinical practice is rooted in a thorough understanding of physiotherapy techniques, patient monitoring, and evidence-based practices. Sophia continuously seeks to expand her expertise through ongoing professional development, staying current with the latest physiotherapy advancements to provide the best possible care to her patients.

Her practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Sophia is dedicated to promoting preventative care and long-term wellness within the Côte-Saint-Luc community. She is fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Hebrew, enabling her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population and ensure clear understanding and comfort during each session.

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

Common Msk

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.
• 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.

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

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.

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

• The path to recovery from loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury and achieving getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care for sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort often starts with expert guidance. Sophia, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• At Sophia's physiotherapy practice, individuals with swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment are guided towards improved circulation and tissue healing. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain.
• When pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing taking energetic, long walks with your dog every day, physiotherapy with Sophia can help you work towards a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.

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

Sophia practices at the CENTRE GERIATRIQUE MAIMONIDES, situated in a central location within the Côte-Saint-Luc neighborhood of Côte-Saint-Luc. This Centre d'hébergement et de soins de longue durée (CHSLD) facility is conveniently positioned near local community services, pharmacies, and public transit routes, making it accessible for patients from various parts of the community. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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.

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. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: 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 allows it, we can often 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 all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC (if meeting their criteria) might be covered, but private clinic physiotherapy is usually not. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance coverage for physiotherapy services.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to *see* a Physiotherapy Technologist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy before your appointment.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This varies depending on your specific condition and goals. After a comprehensive initial assessment, Sophia will provide an estimate of the number of sessions needed and the recommended frequency. Your progress will be regularly reviewed, and adjustments will be made to your treatment plan as necessary.

CENTRE GERIATRIQUE MAIMONIDES
5795, Avenue Caldwell
Côte-Saint-Luc, QC H4W 1W3

Phone: (514) 483-2121

Sophia Zinno 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.