Sylvain St-Amour – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Sylvain St-Amour is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Université de Montréal / Physiothérapie - Réadaptation in Montréal, QC. Sylvain is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). With a focus on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, Sylvain provides personalized assessments and evidence-based treatments tailored to each individual's needs. Whether managing acute injuries, chronic pain, or post-operative rehabilitation, Sylvain strives to restore optimal function and improve quality of life for his patients.

Specializing in comprehensive rehabilitation, Sylvain offers expert care for conditions involving muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. His expertise extends to providing specialized assessment and treatment for jaw pain (TMJ/TMD), orofacial pain, and various types of headaches with a musculoskeletal component. Sylvain’s approach emphasizes a collaborative process, involving patients actively in their recovery journey. His commitment to ongoing professional development ensures that he remains current with the latest advancements in physiotherapy practices, incorporating innovative techniques to enhance patient outcomes.

With a background in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, Sylvain has developed a particular interest in managing complex cases such as TMJ, headaches, and post-surgical rehabilitation. He serves adult patients, applying a holistic approach that combines manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities to facilitate healing and functional restoration. Sylvain's goal is to empower patients to regain their mobility, reduce pain, and achieve their personal health objectives through tailored treatment plans.

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

Post Surgical

• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Physiotherapy aimed at restoring movement, strength, and function after surgical repair of broken bones (e.g., Open Reduction Internal Fixation - ORIF, intramedullary nailing), once the fracture site is sufficiently healed and cleared for rehabilitation by your surgeon.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Comprehensive physiotherapy for knee ligament injuries post-operatively, focusing on restoring full knee function, power, and agility to meet your specific athletic or lifestyle demands.
• 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.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Specialized physiotherapy focused on regaining shoulder movement, strength, stability, and function after various types of shoulder surgeries, such as rotator cuff repair, labral tear repair, shoulder stabilization procedures (e.g., Bankart repair), or shoulder joint replacement (arthroplasty).

Arthritis

• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Helping to manage the musculoskeletal aspects of psoriatic disease, working in conjunction with medical management to optimize your physical function and comfort.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.

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).

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Sylvain 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.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): A common physiotherapy treatment for acute injuries, designed to help numb pain, decrease bleeding into the tissues, and minimize secondary hypoxic injury.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Utilizing electrophysical agents as an adjunct to your physiotherapy treatments to aid recovery, improve muscle function, manage pain, or reduce swelling, tailored to your specific condition.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.

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 Université de Montréal / Physiothérapie - Réadaptation, 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:

• For those whose difficulty coordinating my movements, feeling clumsy has made handling your job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending seem like a distant memory, Sylvain's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to handling your job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• It's truly rewarding for Sylvain to witness patients conquer persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady and experience a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in travelling more comfortably on planes, trains, or in cars for longer durations again.
• With Sylvain's help, managing awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) to achieve a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around your neighborhood for fresh air.

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

Sylvain practices at Université de Montréal / Physiothérapie - Réadaptation, situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. This private clinic is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, easily accessible via public transit routes. The facility is housed within the Maison d'enseignement, providing a professional environment dedicated to patient care. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiothérapeute can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiothérapeute will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy in private clinics is generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Certain services provided directly within hospitals or CLSCs might be covered under specific conditions, but for private outpatient physiotherapy, coverage is limited. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for available coverage.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Essentially, physiotherapy helps you get moving and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you’re dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiothérapeute will work with you. They’ll use their expertise in body mechanics, rehabilitation, and pain management to create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and practical advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active, fulfilling life.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, which is known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm specific requirements.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, diagnose, and develop treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and focuses on implementing treatment plans, assisting patients with exercises, and applying modalities under supervision. Both roles are vital in delivering effective physiotherapy care.

Université de Montréal / Physiothérapie - Réadaptation
Succursale Centre-Ville, C.P. 6128
Montréal, QC H3C 3J7

Phone: (514) 343-6111

Sylvain St-Amour 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.