Audrey Thibeault – Physiotherapist | Chicoutimi, QC

Audrey Thibeault is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Clinique Courte Échelle - Réadaptation pour enfants inc. in Chicoutimi, QC, Audrey is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). With a compassionate approach, Audrey strives to support children and their families through tailored physiotherapy interventions that promote development, recovery, and overall well-being.

Audrey's role involves providing specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions such as torticollis, orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and to foster optimal motor function and participation in daily activities. Her practice encompasses a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions, from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Audrey is dedicated to helping her young patients regain confidence and independence through evidence-based treatments tailored to their unique needs.

With a solid educational foundation and clinical experience, Audrey has developed particular expertise and a keen interest in pediatric physiotherapy and musculoskeletal care. She continuously pursues professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in her field. Fluent in French and English, Audrey emphasizes a collaborative, family-centered approach, working closely with patients and their families to achieve meaningful health and functional goals in a warm and welcoming environment.

Audrey Thibeault 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.

Pediatric

• Toe Walking (Idiopathic / Habitual): Helping children develop a more typical and efficient walking pattern by addressing the factors contributing to persistent toe walking.
• Congenital Muscular Torticollis / Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome): A condition often present at or shortly after birth, where a baby's neck muscle (typically the sternocleidomastoid) is tight or shortened, causing the head to tilt to one side and rotate to the opposite side. Often associated with plagiocephaly (asymmetrical head shape or 'flat head syndrome') due to preferential head positioning.
• Developmental Delays (Gross Motor Skills): Helping babies and young children catch up on their physical developmental milestones, improve coordination, strength, and balance for successful participation in play and daily activities.
• Pediatric Sports Injuries & Growing Pains (e.g., Osgood-Schlatter, Sever's Disease): Physiotherapy rehabilitation tailored for the unique needs of children and adolescents involved in sports, focusing on safe recovery, pain management, correcting biomechanics, and facilitating a gradual return to play while minimizing risk of re-injury.

Post Surgical

• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Guidance on hip precautions (if applicable for your surgical approach), a progressive exercise program, and functional retraining after hip surgery to help you achieve your goals.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Gentle and progressive physiotherapy rehabilitation following spinal surgery (e.g., for disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or spinal fusion), initiated once cleared by your surgeon, to improve mobility, core strength, posture, reduce pain, and safely return to daily activities.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: A structured, progressive, and goal-oriented physiotherapy rehabilitation program crucial for restoring knee stability, strength, range of motion, and proprioception (joint position sense) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or other knee ligament (e.g., PCL, MCL, LCL) reconstructive surgery.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Comprehensive post-operative recovery guidance following knee replacement, including exercises, manual therapy, and education to ensure you achieve your best possible function.

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

• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Comprehensive rehabilitation programs designed by a sports physiotherapist to address the specific demands of your sport, facilitate a full recovery from athletic injuries, and prevent recurrence.
• Sports Performance Enhancement & Injury Prevention: Physiotherapy interventions aimed at helping you reach your athletic potential by addressing physical limitations, improving power and agility, and implementing evidence-based injury prevention strategies.
• 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.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Gait Analysis & Running/Walking Re-training: Detailed biomechanical assessment of your walking or running patterns, often using video analysis, to identify inefficiencies, asymmetries, or faulty mechanics that may contribute to pain or injury.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Audrey. 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 Clinique Courte Échelle - Réadaptation pour enfants inc., physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Audrey frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many patients have found lasting relief from breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity and achieved a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment under the skilled care of Audrey. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands with a new lease on life.
• Struggling with the frustration of frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders? Audrey develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a more comfortable and physically manageable pregnancy experience. This is key to helping you get back to doing getting back to golfing 18 holes without your back acting up with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• It's truly rewarding for Audrey to witness patients conquer shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult and experience a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours again.

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

Audrey practices at Clinique Courte Échelle - Réadaptation pour enfants inc., situated in a modern clinic located in the central neighborhood of Chicoutimi. This private facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for families to access comprehensive care. The clinic is well-connected by public transit routes, ensuring easy access for patients from various parts of the community. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute (Physiothérapeute) directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. While a referral is not legally required to start physiotherapy, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your appointment to understand their specific requirements.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Certain services received within public hospitals or CLSCs might be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is recommended to verify with RAMQ and your insurance plans for details on coverage.

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

A Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master’s degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnosis, treatment planning, and certain restricted activities. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) has a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises without independent diagnosis or treatment planning. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

How can I book an appointment at Clinique Courte Échelle - Réadaptation pour enfants inc.?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (418) 376-9622 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy helps you move better and manage pain through personalized exercises, hands-on techniques, and education. Whether recovering from injury, managing chronic conditions, or improving mobility, Audrey works with you to develop a tailored plan that supports your goals and enhances your quality of life.

Clinique Courte Échelle - Réadaptation pour enfants inc.
756, Rue d'Alma
Chicoutimi, QC G7H 4E6

Phone: (418) 376-9622

Audrey Thibeault 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.