Sylvain Gignac – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Sylvain Gignac is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Institut de cardiologie de Montréal in Montréal, QC, Sylvain is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). His role involves managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Sylvain employs a comprehensive approach that includes breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, tailored exercise prescriptions, and thorough patient education to support optimal recovery and long-term health outcomes.

With extensive clinical experience and ongoing professional development, Sylvain has developed specialized skills and a keen interest in areas such as respiratory therapy and post-surgical rehabilitation. He is well-versed in evidence-based practices and strives to incorporate the latest research into his treatment plans, ensuring each patient receives effective and personalized care. Sylvain's commitment to excellence is evident in his attentive approach to patient needs, fostering a safe and supportive environment for healing and wellness.

Sylvain values a patient-centered philosophy, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. He promotes preventative care and long-term wellness within the Montréal community through proactive physiotherapy interventions. Fluent in English and French, Sylvain communicates effectively with diverse patient populations, ensuring clarity and understanding throughout the therapeutic process.

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

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

Cardioresp

• Post-Pneumonia / Respiratory Infection Recovery: Physiotherapy rehabilitation to help regain lung function, improve breathing efficiency, clear any residual lung secretions (mucus), build up endurance and strength, and manage persistent cough or breathlessness after a significant lung infection like pneumonia or severe bronchitis.
• 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.

Post Surgical

• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Specialized physiotherapy after knee joint replacement surgery to help you regain independence, optimize your surgical outcome, and return to desired daily activities and hobbies.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A structured physiotherapy plan to help you recover full function, independence, and confidence in your new hip after replacement surgery.

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

• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy support to help individuals with Post-COVID-19 Condition improve their physical function, manage debilitating symptoms, and enhance their quality of life through a personalized and cautious approach.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.

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

• Individuals feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as they age, are guided toward feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day. The focus is on enabling participation in activities like dancing at social events and family celebrations with confidence and comfort.
• Patients experiencing facial weakness or drooping on one side (such as Bell's Palsy) receive dedicated support aimed at managing symptoms effectively. The goal is to facilitate recovery, reduce pain, and help patients resume meaningful daily activities, including attending children’s or grandchildren’s sporting events.
• Individuals seeking to return to dancing—whether ballet, salsa, or casual dancing—are supported through evidence-based treatment plans that improve joint mobility, muscle strength, and coordination. Sylvain emphasizes techniques that promote lasting functional improvements, allowing patients to enjoy their hobbies without discomfort or fear of injury.

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

Sylvain practices at the Institut de cardiologie de Montréal, situated in a modern clinic located in the central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently positioned near various community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care in one location. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring easy accessibility for those using buses or metro services. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance, providing added convenience for patients arriving by car.

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 Sylvain's practice 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.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Sylvain would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) directly without a physician's referral, which is known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to be assessed or treated, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session primarily involves a comprehensive assessment. Sylvain will discuss your specific issue, medical history, and overall health background. They will then perform various physical tests to evaluate your movement, strength, and areas of concern. The goal is to fully understand your condition to develop a tailored treatment plan. You may also receive initial hands-on care or exercises to facilitate your recovery.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and perform restricted activities such as spinal manipulations if certified. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision or treatment plan of a physiotherapist or physician. They apply prescribed modalities, guide exercises, and monitor progress but do not diagnose or independently develop treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services in private clinics, and patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria, but outpatient private physiotherapy is typically not subsidized. It is important to verify eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans, as many offer significant coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

Institut de cardiologie de Montréal
5000, Rue Bélanger
Montréal, QC H1T 1C8

Phone: (514) 376-3330

Sylvain Gignac 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.