Valérie Bisson – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Valérie Bisson is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at CHU Sainte-Justine in Montréal, QC. Valérie is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her role involves addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and developmental conditions, ensuring that each patient receives personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Whether managing acute injuries, chronic pain, or post-surgical rehabilitation, Valérie aims to facilitate recovery and improve overall function.

Valérie's expertise extends to offering specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents. She works closely with young patients to address developmental delays, congenital conditions such as torticollis, orthopedic injuries, and neurological issues. Her goal is to promote optimal motor development, participation in daily activities, and support healthy growth trajectories during critical developmental stages. Valérie’s compassionate approach ensures that both children and their families feel supported throughout their rehabilitation journey.

Educationally, Valérie completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated valuable clinical experience in various settings. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development and stays current with evidence-based practices. Valérie has developed particular interests in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as Pediatric Physiotherapy, allowing her to deliver comprehensive and effective care to a diverse patient population. She communicates fluently in French and English, ensuring clear and accessible communication with her patients and their families.

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

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.

Back & Neck Pain

• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Muscular pain, trigger points, and tension headaches resulting from habitual poor posture, which can be addressed with postural re-education, exercises, and ergonomic advice.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.

Arthritis

• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Individualized exercise programs and pain management strategies tailored for psoriatic arthritis to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.

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

• Struggling with the frustration of my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night? Valérie develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching. This is key to helping you get back to doing attending your favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Valérie believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity is hindering your ability to maintaining your balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails, a personalized plan focusing on feeling more stable and confident on their feet, especially on uneven surfaces can make all the difference.
• Tired of an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak interfering with going on birdwatching outings in various terrains? Valérie uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Valérie practices at CHU Sainte-Justine, a prominent public healthcare facility situated in the central Montréal neighborhood of Montréal. This clinic is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive healthcare in one location. The facility is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring accessible transportation options for all visitors. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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).

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 are CHU Sainte-Justine's operating hours?

CHU Sainte-Justine is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office at (514) 345-6789 or check our website at www.chu-sainte-justine.qc.ca for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

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

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

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 usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered under certain conditions, but private outpatient physiotherapy is typically not reimbursed by RAMQ. It is recommended to check your private insurance plans for coverage details and to verify your eligibility for any public coverage with RAMQ.

CHU Sainte-Justine
3175, Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine
Montréal, QC H3T 1C3

Phone: (514) 345-4931

Valérie Bisson 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.