Jennifer Larouche – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Jennifer Larouche is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at CHU de Québec in Québec, QC, Jennifer is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role involves managing acute and chronic conditions affecting the heart and lungs, such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms. Jennifer employs a comprehensive approach that includes breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, tailored exercise prescriptions, and patient education to optimize respiratory function and enhance overall well-being.

Specializing in caring for adult patients, Jennifer also focuses on the unique health needs of older adults. Her goal is to help her patients improve and maintain mobility, strength, and balance, while effectively managing age-related conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis. She strives to reduce fall risk and promote independence, aiming to improve quality of life through personalized physiotherapy interventions that support long-term health and functional capacity.

Jennifer completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that underscores her commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. She has developed a particular interest and expertise in Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy and Geriatric Physiotherapy/Seniors' Health, continually updating her skills to provide the most effective treatments. Her practice philosophy emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to reach their movement and functional goals, and promoting preventative care and wellness for the Québec community. Jennifer is fluent in French.

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

Neurological

• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation for facial nerve disorders to help restore facial expression, improve function (e.g., eating, speaking, eye closure), and enhance overall facial appearance and confidence.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurorehabilitation provided by a Physiotherapist to support functional recovery, improve independence in daily activities, and facilitate community reintegration after a head injury.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Physiotherapy aimed at maximizing functional independence, mobility (e.g., transfers, wheelchair skills, ambulation if appropriate), strength, range of motion, and managing secondary complications (e.g., pain, spasticity, respiratory issues) for individuals with incomplete or specific types of spinal cord injuries. Often part of a multidisciplinary team approach.

Vestibular Balance

• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Comprehensive balance assessment by a Physiotherapist to identify underlying causes of unsteadiness, followed by targeted exercise programs and strategies to help you stay steady on your feet.
• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for inner ear balance problems, involving customized exercises that promote central nervous system compensation and adaptation to the weakened vestibular input.
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): A chronic functional dizziness disorder characterized by persistent sensations of dizziness, unsteadiness, or non-spinning vertigo (often lasting for 3 months or more), typically exacerbated by upright posture, active or passive motion, or exposure to complex or moving visual environments (e.g., busy supermarkets, scrolling on a screen). Often follows an acute vestibular event, medical illness, or period of psychological distress.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Effective, non-invasive treatment for positional dizziness and vertigo using specific head and body movements performed by a trained Vestibular Physiotherapist.

Long Covid

• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Symptom Management: Managing a wide range of persistent or new symptoms that can occur for weeks, months, or longer after the acute COVID-19 infection, including profound fatigue, breathlessness, 'brain fog' (cognitive issues), muscle weakness, joint pain, exercise intolerance, dizziness, and POTS-like symptoms.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Post-COVID-19 Condition / Long COVID Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy management for individuals experiencing persistent symptoms following COVID-19 infection (Long COVID), such as profound fatigue, breathlessness (dyspnea), muscle weakness, joint pain, 'brain fog' (cognitive difficulties), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) symptoms, and exercise intolerance.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Jennifer. 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 CHU de Québec, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Jennifer frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• For those whose aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk has made participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf seem like a distant memory, Jennifer's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Physiotherapy with Jennifer can be a transformative turning point for those affected by needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity. The shared goal is achieving enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications, paving the way for you to enjoy getting on and off the floor with ease and a more active, vibrant life.
• When trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again, physiotherapy with Jennifer can help you work towards achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach. 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 Jennifer, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Jennifer practices at CHU de Québec, situated in a well-equipped clinic located in the central Québec neighborhood of Québec. The facility is part of a major public healthcare institution, providing easy access for patients from surrounding communities. It is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it straightforward for patients to integrate physiotherapy into their routine. The clinic is accessible via local public transit routes, ensuring that transportation is never a barrier to receiving care. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What are CHU de Québec's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office at (418) 555-1234 or check our website/online booking portal for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiothérapeute would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

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 (known as direct access). However, while a referral is not legally required to *see* a physiotherapist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance provider before your appointment.

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered, but physiotherapy in private clinics is typically not. Always verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage details.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Absolutely. Physiotherapy focuses not only on treating current issues but also on preventing future problems. A physiothérapeute can evaluate your movement patterns, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances, and develop a personalized exercise and prevention plan to maintain musculoskeletal health and reduce the risk of recurring pain or injury.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and carry out therapeutic interventions independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress, but does not diagnose or develop treatment plans independently. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

CHU de Québec
11, Côte du Palais
Québec, QC G1R 2J6

Phone: (418) 525-4444

Jennifer Larouche 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.