Ruth Létourneau – Physiotherapist | Rimouski, QC

Ruth Létourneau is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CISSS du Bas St-Laurent (Interaction Rimouski) in Rimouski, QC, Ruth is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes a thorough understanding of each individual's unique needs, ensuring tailored treatment plans that optimize recovery outcomes and enhance functional independence. Ruth’s expertise in neurological rehabilitation enables her to assist patients in regaining movement, strength, and confidence following neurological events or conditions.

Her role extends beyond neurological care, encompassing a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal, joint, and soft tissue conditions. Ruth addresses issues such as post-operative recovery, chronic pain management, and injury prevention for athletes and active individuals aiming to maintain peak performance. She serves patients of all ages, from infants and young children to adults and seniors, fostering an environment of proactive health management and injury resilience. Ruth’s dedication to evidence-based practices ensures her patients benefit from the latest physiotherapy techniques and interventions.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Ruth has cultivated a particular interest in neurological physiotherapy and orthopedic rehabilitation. She completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has gained extensive clinical experience, continually expanding her skills through specialized training and certifications. Ruth’s philosophy centers on a patient-centered, collaborative approach that actively involves individuals in their recovery journey. Fluent in both English and French, Ruth ensures clear communication and personalized care for her diverse patient community.

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

Post Surgical

• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy following knee ligament reconstruction surgery to ensure a successful recovery, minimize complications (like stiffness or muscle atrophy), and facilitate a safe and confident return to activity and sport, preventing re-injury.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Targeted physiotherapy to help you recover from operatively treated fractures, addressing common issues like joint stiffness, muscle weakness, swelling, pain, and functional limitations in the affected limb.

Common Msk

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Pain affecting the hip joint and surrounding musculature, which can limit activities like walking, standing for long periods, rising from a chair, or lying on the affected side.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.

Vestibular Balance

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Brief, often intense, episodes of dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo) triggered by specific changes in head position (e.g., rolling over in bed, looking up, bending down), caused by displaced inner ear crystals (otoconia).
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Physiotherapy aimed at improving your balance, coordination, lower limb strength, reaction time, and confidence to reduce your risk of falling and enhance safe mobility in your home and community.

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

• Postural Assessment and Correction: Helping you understand how your posture impacts your musculoskeletal health and providing you with tools for lasting postural improvement and pain relief.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Comprehensive assessment of your fall risk factors with individualized interventions, including balance exercises, strength training, gait re-training, and home safety advice to help you prevent falls.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Ruth. 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 CISSS du Bas St-Laurent (Interaction Rimouski), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Ruth frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many patients have found lasting relief from that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees and achieved restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements under the skilled care of Ruth. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as playing a full game of recreational hockey with your friends with a new lease on life.
• Many find that numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs significantly impacts their ability to reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches. Ruth helps patients target feeling more like their 'old self' before their injury or condition began with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Don't let a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) dictate what you can and cannot do. Ruth offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery, helping you reclaim attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Ruth practices at CISSS du Bas St-Laurent (Interaction Rimouski), situated in a modern clinic located in the central Rimouski neighborhood of Rimouski, QC. This public healthcare facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is accessible via multiple local public transit routes, ensuring seamless transportation options for all visitors. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiothérapeute will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a doctor's referral is not legally required to see a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services 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 if meeting certain criteria, but private outpatient physiotherapy is typically not included. Always check with RAMQ and your insurance provider for specific coverage details.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, enabling autonomous assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments, assisting physiotherapists and physicians in delivering care under supervision.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private insurance plans provide full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. It is recommended to contact your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand your coverage details, including annual maximums, co-payments, referral requirements, and direct billing options. We can often bill your insurer directly if your plan allows, and you should bring your insurance information to your appointment.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey. Your Physiothérapeute will teach you specific exercises tailored to your needs, empowering you to continue progress outside the clinic and manage your condition effectively.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area and freedom of movement. Shorts are ideal for lower limb issues, while a tank top or loose T-shirt works well for upper body concerns. Athletic wear is recommended, and you may be provided with a gown if needed.

CISSS du Bas St-Laurent (Interaction Rimouski)
320, Rue Saint-Germain E, 3e étage
Rimouski, QC G5L 1C2

Phone: (418) 722-7777

Ruth Létourneau 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.