Steven Gonzalez Calero – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Steven Gonzalez Calero is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal) in Montréal, QC, Steven is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. His role involves assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Steven offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. His goal is to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk, fostering greater independence and confidence for his patients.

With a comprehensive educational background and clinical experience, Steven Gonzalez Calero completed his degree in Physiotherapy. His ongoing professional development ensures that he remains current with evidence-based practices, particularly in Neurological Physiotherapy and Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. His expertise is further enriched by hands-on clinical practice, allowing him to tailor interventions to each patient's unique needs and conditions.

Steven's practice philosophy emphasizes a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. He believes in a collaborative process, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Education and empowerment are central to his methodology, providing patients with clear understanding and practical self-management strategies that promote lasting results. Steven is fluent in French, English, and Spanish, facilitating effective communication with a diverse range of patients.

Steven Gonzalez Calero provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Common Msk

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Aching, sharp, or persistent pain located in the lower back, which may sometimes extend into the buttocks or legs, limiting your comfort.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.

Neurological

• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: May include specific facial exercises, neuromuscular re-education (PNF for the face), biofeedback, electrical stimulation (if appropriate), massage, and strategies to improve facial movement, symmetry, reduce synkinesis (unwanted movements), and manage eye care.
• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Physiotherapy aimed at maintaining optimal function, managing contractures (joint stiffness), optimizing mobility (including prescription of mobility aids), adapting activities, and managing respiratory function (if applicable) for individuals with progressive muscle weakness due to muscular dystrophy or other myopathies.

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Symptoms such as localized or radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by mechanical compression or irritation of peripheral nerves at specific anatomical sites (entrapment points).
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Improving safety, function, and quality of life for those with impaired sensation or strength due to various types of peripheral neuropathy.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Helping you overcome dizziness, vertigo, and unsteadiness with targeted vestibular exercises and strategies, enabling you to return to daily activities with greater stability and comfort.
• 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.
• 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Steven. 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 CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Steven frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• At Steven's physiotherapy practice, individuals with a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) are guided towards being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as working on detailed woodworking projects in your shop without hand pain.
• Patients struggling with knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run can find dedicated and compassionate support from Steven. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving being able to climb stairs with ease and confidence once again, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as dressing myself independently and without difficulty, including shoes and socks.
• Many find that swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment significantly impacts their ability to enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again. Steven helps patients target getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Steven practices at the CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal), situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easily accessible for patients. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring that patients can reach their appointments with minimal difficulty. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This is very individual and depends on many factors. After your comprehensive initial assessment, your Physiothérapeute will be able to give you a better idea of the anticipated number of sessions and the frequency of visits needed to achieve your specific goals. We believe in open communication and will regularly review your progress with you, adjusting the treatment plan as you improve and as needed.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to see a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance plan before your appointment.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is an autonomous healthcare professional authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a broad range of therapeutic interventions. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises but does not diagnose or independently develop treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

Please bring your provincial health card (e.g., RAMQ), any relevant medical reports, recent imaging results, a list of medications, and insurance information if applicable. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques used by a Physiothérapeute to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Techniques include joint mobilization and manipulation, soft tissue mobilization, and neural mobilization, all aimed at reducing pain, restoring movement, and improving tissue function.

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 are typically responsible for payment or reimbursement through private insurance. Care received in public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered under specific circumstances. It is advisable to verify coverage details with RAMQ and your private insurer.

Is there parking available at or near CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal)?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for designated patient spots. Additional street parking and paid parkades are also available nearby. Please check local signage for restrictions and parking hours.

CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal)
1000, Rue Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1

Phone: (514) 890-8000

Steven Gonzalez Calero 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.