Thalie Forest – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Thalie Forest is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at the Kinatex Sports Physio Complexe Desjardins in Montréal, QC. Thalie 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). Her focus is on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and post-surgical conditions, helping patients recover function, improve mobility, and manage symptoms effectively. Thalie’s approach emphasizes individualized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based practices, ensuring each patient receives care tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Thalie's role involves comprehensive assessments and the implementation of targeted therapies for conditions such as joint pain, chronic musculoskeletal issues, neurological impairments, and post-operative rehabilitation. She works closely with adult patients to facilitate recovery from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and enhance overall quality of life. Thalie’s expertise extends to assisting individuals recovering from stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries, and other neurological events, supporting them in regaining independence and participating actively in daily life. Her ongoing professional development ensures she remains current with the latest physiotherapy techniques and innovations in patient care.

With a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous learning, Thalie adopts a collaborative approach, actively involving patients in their treatment planning and goal setting. Her patient-centered philosophy emphasizes education and empowerment, enabling individuals to take an active role in their recovery process. Thalie is fluent in English and French, ensuring clear communication and personalized care for patients from diverse backgrounds.

Thalie Forest 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): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

Vestibular Balance

• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for inner ear balance problems, involving customized exercises that promote central nervous system compensation and adaptation to the weakened vestibular input.
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, including habituation exercises, sensory re-weighting, and balance training, often as part of a multidisciplinary approach (which may include medication or CBT), for managing the symptoms of PPPD/3PD.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Difficulty maintaining stability during standing, walking, or changing positions, which may be due to various factors including age-related changes, neurological conditions, musculoskeletal weakness, sensory impairments, or medication side effects, often leading to an increased risk of falls.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Effective, non-invasive treatment for positional dizziness and vertigo using specific head and body movements performed by a trained Vestibular Physiotherapist.

Post Surgical

• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Helping you manage pain, improve scar mobility, and regain optimal strength and range of motion in a limb following fracture fixation surgery.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A tailored physiotherapy program following hip joint replacement to optimize your recovery, manage pain, ensure adherence to any precautions, and facilitate a return to an active lifestyle.

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

• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): In-home rehabilitation programs tailored to your living space and functional needs, helping you regain independence with daily activities, manage pain, and improve mobility where you live.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Comprehensive physiotherapy programs designed to maximize quality of life and functional abilities for individuals with conditions like stroke (CVA), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, traumatic or acquired brain injury (TBI/ABI), or incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI).
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Helping you stay steady on your feet and maintain your independence through targeted balance and coordination exercises, and practical fall prevention education.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Providing physiotherapy assessment, diagnosis, treatment guidance, education, exercise prescription, and self-management strategies remotely via secure video conferencing technology.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Thalie. 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 Kinatex Sports Physio Complexe Desjardins, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Thalie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Physiotherapy with Thalie can be a transformative turning point for those affected by difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain. The shared goal is achieving feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey, paving the way for you to enjoy taking long photography walks to capture nature or cityscapes and a more active, vibrant life.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Thalie's clinic, common concerns like that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.
• It's truly rewarding for Thalie to witness patients conquer that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees and experience a more comfortable and physically manageable pregnancy experience. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in comfortably cooking and meal prepping for your family again.

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

Thalie practices at the Kinatex Sports Physio Complexe Desjardins, situated in the heart of Montréal's central neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located in a modern facility that offers easy access for patients coming from various parts of the city. It is positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it straightforward for patients to combine their physiotherapy sessions with other health-related errands. The clinic is well-connected by public transit routes, including bus and métro lines, ensuring accessible transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally access physiotherapy services through direct access, meaning a referral from a physician is not legally required to see a Physiothérapeute. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up sessions are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your treatment plan and needs. The exact duration may vary based on your condition and the therapist’s recommendations.

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Limited coverage may be available for certain populations, such as seniors or low-income individuals, typically through specific programs or hospital services. Most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics requires private insurance or out-of-pocket payment. Patients are encouraged to verify their eligibility and coverage options with RAMQ and their private insurer.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, Thalie will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including discussing your symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. A physical assessment will follow to identify the root cause of your condition and determine the most appropriate treatment approach. You will collaborate with Thalie to set treatment goals and may receive initial exercises, advice, or hands-on therapies to begin your recovery process.

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

If you experience increased pain, new neurological symptoms, or if soreness persists beyond 48 hours, contact Thalie or the clinic directly. It is important to follow up so that adjustments can be made to your treatment plan to ensure your safety and optimal recovery.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some discomfort may occur during certain physiotherapy techniques, it should not be excessively painful or intolerable. Thalie will always communicate with you about sensations experienced during treatment and adjust techniques to ensure your comfort while still providing effective therapy. Your feedback is essential to optimize your experience.

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 program, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and supports physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, and applying modalities under supervision. Both roles are vital to delivering comprehensive physiotherapy care.

Kinatex Sports Physio Complexe Desjardins
150, Rue Sainte-Catherine O
Montréal, QC H5B 1B2

Phone: (514) 288-2501

Thalie Forest 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.