Zhigang Lu – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Zhigang Lu is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Hôpital Chinois de Montréal (CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal) in Montréal, QC. Zhigang is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered physiotherapy care that adheres to the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). His approach focuses on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including issues related to muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Whether managing acute injuries like sprains and strains or chronic conditions such as arthritis, Zhigang helps patients recover function, improve mobility, and manage symptoms effectively. He also specializes in comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation and assists individuals in their recovery after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease, aiming to enhance their overall quality of life.

Zhigang completed his degree in Physiotherapy and has gained valuable clinical experience, which fuels his ongoing professional development and adherence to evidence-based practices. His expertise spans orthopedic and musculoskeletal physiotherapy as well as neurological physiotherapy, allowing him to tailor treatments to each patient's unique needs. Zhigang’s approach emphasizes a collaborative and proactive strategy, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals while promoting long-term wellness and injury prevention. His commitment to continuous learning ensures that he remains current with the latest advancements in physiotherapy techniques and interventions.

Fluent in English, French, and Chinese, Zhigang values clear communication and cultural sensitivity in his practice. His philosophy is rooted in a strong commitment to evidence-based care, promoting preventative strategies and empowering patients to take an active role in their recovery. Whether working with adults or seniors, Zhigang’s personalized approach aims to optimize performance, reduce pain, and support clients in reaching their full potential.

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

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Managing a variety of acute and chronic conditions of the hand and wrist, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent long-term disability.

Back Neck Pain

• 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).
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.

Peripheral Nerve

• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Management of symptoms such as pain (neuropathic pain), numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness, typically in the hands or feet, resulting from damage to peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord).
• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Alleviating symptoms and improving function for individuals with entrapped nerves through conservative physiotherapy management, helping to avoid more invasive interventions.

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

• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Zhigang. 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 Hôpital Chinois de Montréal (CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Zhigang frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Zhigang believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain is hindering your ability to perform tasks requiring fine motor skills and dexterity with ease, a personalized plan focusing on a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery can make all the difference.
• Zhigang frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter.
• Patients often come to Zhigang feeling defeated by feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease and resuming enduring your daily commute, whether driving or on public transit, without stiffness becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Zhigang practices at Hôpital Chinois de Montréal (CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal), situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easily accessible for patients in the area. The clinic is well-connected via multiple public transit routes, including bus and métro lines, ensuring seamless access for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Does Hôpital Chinois de Montréal (CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal) offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Hôpital Chinois de Montréal offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. It is recommended to verify your coverage with your insurer prior to your visit, as some plans may have specific requirements or limitations. Our clinic handles the billing process directly, which simplifies payment and reimbursement for eligible patients.

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

No, in Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician’s referral (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your specific insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

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 contacting your insurance provider before your first visit to clarify your coverage details, including your annual maximum, co-payments, and whether a doctor’s referral is necessary. If our clinic offers direct billing and your plan permits it, we can bill your insurer directly for the covered services. Otherwise, you will need to pay upfront and submit receipts for reimbursement. Please bring your insurance card and policy information to your appointment.

How can I book an appointment at Hôpital Chinois de Montréal (CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal)?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (514) 871-0961 during business hours. Many practitioners also offer online booking through our website at www.montrealchinesehospital.ca. Our friendly staff will assist you in scheduling a suitable time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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

A Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and perform certain restricted activities. A Technologue en physiothérapie, with a college-level diploma, works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying treatments and guiding exercises but does not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

Generally, physiotherapy services in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Some coverage may be available through public hospitals or CLSCs for specific conditions or populations, but most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics is paid directly by patients. It is advisable to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and review your private insurance plan for coverage details.

Hôpital Chinois de Montréal (CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal)
189, Avenue Viger E
Montréal, QC H2X 3Y9

Phone: (514) 871-0961 | Website: www.montrealchinesehospital.ca

Zhigang Lu 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.