Nathalie Savard – Physiotherapist | Chicoutimi, QC

Nathalie Savard is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean in Chicoutimi, QC, Nathalie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes a comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plans that address the unique needs of each individual, especially those recovering from neurological events or managing chronic neurological conditions. Nathalie’s goal is to facilitate optimal recovery, restore function, and improve quality of life through evidence-based physiotherapy interventions.

Specializing in neurological rehabilitation, Nathalie assists individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing overall well-being after conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. She offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. Her interventions aim to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk, helping patients regain confidence and independence in their daily activities.

Nathalie completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that enriches her practice. She is committed to ongoing professional development, remaining current with the latest evidence-based practices in neurological physiotherapy and vestibular rehabilitation. Her particular interest in these areas allows her to provide expert care tailored to complex neurological conditions, ensuring her patients receive effective and compassionate treatment. Nathalie is fluent in French and English, facilitating effective communication with a diverse patient population.

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

Common Msk

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.
• 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.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Symptoms in your hand or wrist that impact your ability to perform your job, hobbies, or essential self-care tasks, addressed by specialized hand physiotherapy.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Physiotherapy for common nerve compression syndromes, including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist), Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (neck/shoulder), Sciatica (low back/buttock), or Meralgia Paresthetica (outer thigh). Treatment often includes manual therapy, nerve gliding exercises (neural mobilization), postural correction, ergonomic advice, and activity modification.
• 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).

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

• 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.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Receiving personalized physiotherapy care online through secure and interactive video sessions with your qualified Physiotherapist, including real-time exercise correction and tailored advice.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach to help you navigate your recovery after a concussion, promoting symptom resolution and safe resumption of activities.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): In-home rehabilitation programs tailored to your living space and functional needs, helping you regain independence with daily activities, manage pain, and improve mobility where you live.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Nathalie. 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 CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nathalie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• The journey to successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery when faced with persistent that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit is made smoother and more effective with Nathalie's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like enduring your daily commute, whether driving or on public transit, without stiffness.
• With Nathalie's help, managing that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder to achieve improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like working on detailed woodworking projects in your shop without hand pain.
• When trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children, physiotherapy with Nathalie can help you work towards greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.

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

Nathalie practices at CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, situated within a modern clinic in the central Chicoutimi neighborhood of Chicoutimi. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near various community services and pharmacies, making it accessible for patients from the surrounding areas. The clinic is easily reachable via local public transit routes, ensuring convenience for those using public transportation. 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?

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can also perform certain advanced procedures if they have the required additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They play a crucial role in delivering care by implementing treatment plans designed by a physiotherapist or physician, assisting patients with their exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising professional.

Does CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean 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 facilitate this process. However, it is recommended to verify your specific coverage and any applicable limits or requirements with your insurer prior to your appointment, as plans can vary. If direct billing isn't available for your plan, Nathalie will provide official receipts for you to submit for reimbursement.

How can I book an appointment at CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic directly at (418) 695-7700 during business hours. Many practitioners also offer online booking through the official website at https://santesaglac.gouv.qc.ca/documentation/professionnels/. The friendly staff will assist you in scheduling a suitable time with the appropriate physiotherapist for your needs.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician’s referral, which is 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 insurance policy details before your first visit to ensure coverage.

Is there parking available at or near CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside the clinic. Look for designated patient spots. Additional parking options include metered street parking on nearby streets or a paid public parkade located within a short walking distance. Please check local signage for restrictions or time limits.

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

Generally, physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ in Quebec. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Certain services received through public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered depending on specific eligibility criteria. It is recommended to verify your coverage with RAMQ and your private insurer for comprehensive information.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is to reduce pain and improve function. Some treatments or assessments may cause mild discomfort or soreness temporarily, especially if tissues are inflamed or stiff. Nathalie will always work within your tolerance levels, clearly explain procedures, and encourage feedback. If you experience significant pain during treatment, notify her immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean
930, Rue Jacques-Cartier E
Chicoutimi, QC G7H 7K9

Phone: (418) 695-7700 | Website: https://santesaglac.gouv.qc.ca/documentation/professionnels/

Nathalie Savard 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.