Vivian Germain – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Vivian Germain is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre in Ottawa, ON, Vivian Germain is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Vivian Germain's focus is addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains, to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Vivian Germain serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Vivian Germain completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 2019). With clinical experience, Vivian Germain is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Vivian Germain has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Vivian Germain empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results; a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Vivian Germain offers consultations in English, French.

Vivian Germain provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, 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-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).

Common Musculoskeletal

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Disorders affecting hand and wrist function, making daily tasks such as gripping objects, typing, writing, or fine motor activities difficult and painful.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.
• 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.
• 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.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Vivian Germain can assess your needs.

• 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 complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Vivian Germain, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

At Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Vivian Germain frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• It's truly rewarding for Vivian Germain to witness patients conquer that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder and experience feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in keeping up with their team during our weekly soccer match again.
• Many find that loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury significantly impacts their ability to attending their favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation. Vivian Germain helps patients target improved hand and wrist function for tasks requiring dexterity with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Rediscover your ability to pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty without the constant burden of breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity. Vivian Germain focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• The path to recovery from my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking and achieving resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort for sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play often starts with expert guidance. Vivian Germain, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Vivian Germain practices at Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre, situated in the Nepean (Centrepoint, Tanglewood, Craig Henry) neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Parliament Buildings and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 Physiotherapist 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.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

In Ontario, you can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement of physiotherapy services. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics for most Ontarians. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility criteria are strict and there may be waitlists. It's essential to check your private insurance coverage, as many plans offer significant coverage for physiotherapy in private clinics.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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 Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre 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?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

Does Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Please contact Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre directly to inquire about their direct billing capabilities. It is recommended to bring your insurance card and policy details to your first appointment to confirm coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements.

What are Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre's operating hours?

Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, hours can vary, so please call their office or check their website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre
1371 Woodroffe Ave, Unit D
Ottawa, ON, K2G 1V7

Phone: (613) 714-9447

Vivian Germain is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Registration Number: XXX50

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=a402c02d-0dca-e911-a812-000d3af4346a

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.