Thomas Kirkman-Gagnon – Physiotherapist | Laval, QC

Thomas Kirkman-Gagnon is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Thomas Gagnon physiothérapie in Laval, QC. With a firm commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, Thomas adheres strictly to the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). His approach emphasizes thorough assessment and individualized treatment plans aimed at restoring optimal function and reducing pain, ensuring that each patient receives care tailored to their unique needs.

Thomas's physiotherapy practice encompasses a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions, including issues related to muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. He provides specialized assessment and treatment for conditions such as acute injuries—sprains, strains, and fractures—as well as chronic pain management, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Additionally, Thomas has developed expertise in managing TMJ/TMD, orofacial pain, and various headache disorders with a musculoskeletal component, serving a diverse patient demographic ranging from older children (5+) to seniors.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based practices, Thomas continuously advances his clinical skills through ongoing professional development. He holds a degree in Physiotherapy and has cultivated particular interest and expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as TMJ, Headache, and Orofacial Pain Physiotherapy. His practice philosophy revolves around a collaborative, patient-centered approach—working closely with individuals to achieve their movement and functional goals. Thomas is fluent in English and French, enabling him to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population.

Thomas Kirkman-Gagnon provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Targeted physiotherapy to help you recover from operatively treated fractures, addressing common issues like joint stiffness, muscle weakness, swelling, pain, and functional limitations in the affected limb.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Guiding your rehabilitation journey after ACL or other ligament surgery, from early post-operative care to advanced sport-specific training and return-to-play testing.
• 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.

Common Msk

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Common injuries related to physical activity, sports participation, accidental falls, or overuse from daily or work-related tasks.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Common knee complaints that can affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, squat, run, or participate in sports, addressed through a tailored physiotherapy program.
• 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.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).

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

• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• 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.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.

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

• Rediscover your ability to maintaining your balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails without the constant burden of recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim). Thomas focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to improved joint health and a slowing of degenerative processes through better biomechanics, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Are you finding that trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip stops you from enjoying reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches? Thomas is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• It's truly rewarding for Thomas to witness patients conquer feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort and experience a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in being able to carry your baby or toddler without straining your back or arms again.

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

Thomas Gagnon physiothérapie is situated in the Chomedey East neighborhood of Laval, a vibrant area easily accessible for local residents. The clinic is conveniently located near Place Bell, making it an ideal choice for those seeking expert physiotherapy care in the region. The practice is well-connected via the Société de transport de Laval (STL), providing accessible public transit options for patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by your Physiothérapeute as part of your overall physiotherapy plan. These techniques are designed to assess and treat your joints, muscles, and nerves to decrease pain and improve your mobility and function. Examples include specific joint mobilizations to improve movement, soft tissue release techniques to address muscle tightness or scar tissue, and sometimes manipulations (adjustments) if indicated and appropriate for your condition and your therapist's qualifications.

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. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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 Thomas Gagnon physiothérapie 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.

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.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician’s referral, a process known as direct access. However, it is important to verify with your private insurance provider, as some plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. We recommend confirming your insurance policy details before your first appointment.

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. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered, but private outpatient physiotherapy in clinics is typically not included. It is advisable to check your eligibility with RAMQ and review your private insurance coverage for physiotherapy services.

Thomas Gagnon physiothérapie
657, Boulevard Curé-Labelle, # 260
Laval, QC H7V 2T8

Phone: (438) 458-7388 | Website: https://www.thomasgagnonphysio.com/

Thomas Kirkman-Gagnon 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.