Physiotherapy for Knee Pain, Sports Injuries & Post-Surgery Recovery in Montreal

Why Physiotherapy Is Essential for Injury Recovery

Whether you've torn your ACL on the soccer field, developed knee pain from running, or are recovering from joint replacement surgery, physiotherapy is the cornerstone of complete recovery. Without proper rehabilitation, injuries heal incorrectly — leading to chronic pain, reduced mobility, compensatory movement patterns and increased risk of re-injury.

At Réhabital in Côte Saint-Luc, our licensed physiotherapists create evidence-based, individualized rehabilitation programs that restore full function and get you back to the activities you love.

Physiotherapy for Knee Pain: The Most Common Complaint

Knee pain affects 25% of adults and is the most common reason people seek physiotherapy. Our therapists treat all types of knee conditions:

• Patellofemoral syndrome (runner's knee) — Pain around or behind the kneecap, worsened by stairs, squatting, or prolonged sitting. We address quadriceps weakness, hip stability and patellar tracking issues. Learn more about knee pain treatment →
• ACL/MCL/meniscus injuries — Whether post-surgical or conservatively managed, our progressive rehabilitation protocols restore strength, stability and confidence.
• Osteoarthritis — Exercise-based physiotherapy is the first-line treatment recommended by all major medical guidelines. We design low-impact strengthening programs that reduce pain and delay or prevent the need for surgery.
• IT band syndrome — Common in runners and cyclists. We identify the underlying hip weakness and biomechanical factors causing lateral knee pain.
• Patellar tendinitis (jumper's knee) — Eccentric strengthening protocols combined with manual therapy for effective recovery.

Sports Injury Rehabilitation

Athletes face unique rehabilitation challenges. Our sport-specific protocols address:

• Ankle sprains — Progressive balance and proprioception training to prevent the 70% re-injury rate seen with inadequate rehabilitation.
• Shoulder injuries — Rotator cuff tears, labral injuries and impingement. Comprehensive scapular stabilization and rotator cuff strengthening programs. Learn about shoulder pain treatment →
• Hamstring strains — Nordic hamstring protocols and progressive return-to-sport programs that reduce re-injury risk.
• Tennis elbow / golfer's elbow — Eccentric loading programs combined with manual therapy and activity modification. Learn about tennis elbow treatment →
• Concussion recovery — Graduated return-to-activity protocols following current evidence-based guidelines.

Post-Surgical Physiotherapy

Surgery is only half the battle — rehabilitation determines your outcome. We provide specialized post-surgical care for:

• Total knee/hip replacement — Phase-based protocols from day one post-surgery through return to full activity (typically 3-6 months).
• ACL reconstruction — 9-12 month comprehensive rehabilitation with return-to-sport testing criteria.
• Rotator cuff repair — Careful progression from protected range of motion to full strength and function.
• Spinal surgery — Core stabilization and postural re-education following discectomy, fusion, or decompression.
• Fracture recovery — Restoring range of motion, strength and function after cast or surgical fixation. Learn about post-surgery rehabilitation →

Our Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches

At Réhabital, we use the most current, research-supported treatment methods:

• Manual therapy — Joint mobilizations and manipulations to restore range of motion and reduce pain.
• Therapeutic exercise — Progressive strengthening, flexibility, balance and proprioception programs.
• Dry needling — Intramuscular stimulation for trigger points and chronic muscle tension.
• Ultrasound therapy — Deep heating to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation.
• Electrical stimulation (TENS/EMS) — Pain management and muscle activation.
• Education and self-management — Empowering you with knowledge and home exercises for long-term success.

Motor Vehicle Accident (SAAQ) Injuries

If you've been injured in a car accident in Quebec, you're covered by the SAAQ. Common injuries we treat include:

• Whiplash — Cervical spine rehabilitation including strengthening, mobility and pain management. Learn about neck pain treatment →
• Thoracic and lumbar injuries — Core stabilization and progressive return to function.
• Shoulder injuries from seatbelt — Rotator cuff and shoulder girdle rehabilitation.

We handle all SAAQ documentation and billing directly, so you can focus on recovery.

What to Expect at Your First Physiotherapy Visit

Your initial assessment (60 minutes) includes:

• Comprehensive history — Injury mechanism, medical history, functional goals
• Physical examination — Range of motion, strength testing, special tests, functional assessment
• Diagnosis and prognosis — Clear explanation of your condition and expected recovery timeline
• Treatment plan — Individualized program with specific, measurable goals
• First treatment session — We begin treatment at your first visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a doctor's referral?

No. In Quebec, you can access physiotherapy directly without a referral. However, some insurance plans may require one for coverage.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your condition. Acute injuries may resolve in 4-8 sessions. Post-surgical rehabilitation typically requires 12-24 sessions over several months. We re-assess regularly and adjust your plan accordingly.

Is physiotherapy covered by insurance?

Yes. Most private insurance plans cover physiotherapy. SAAQ covers treatment for motor vehicle injuries. We provide receipts for all major insurers.

Book Your Physiotherapy Assessment

Don't wait for pain to become chronic. Our experienced physiotherapists at Réhabital in Côte Saint-Luc provide expert rehabilitation for sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, knee pain and more. We serve Hampstead, Westmount, NDG, Snowdon and the entire Montreal region.