Alexandra Couture – Physiotherapy Technologist | Thetford Mines, QC

Alexandra Couture is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS CA (CLSC de Thetford-Mines) in Thetford Mines, QC, Alexandra is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her role involves assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Alexandra primarily serves senior patients, helping them regain mobility, reduce pain, and maintain independence through personalized physiotherapy interventions.

With a solid educational background, Alexandra completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that informs her evidence-based approach. She continually engages in professional development to stay current with the latest physiotherapy practices. Alexandra has developed particular expertise in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, ensuring each individual receives tailored and effective care. Her commitment to excellence is reflected in her attentive and compassionate approach to patient care.

Alexandra's practice philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and ongoing learning to provide the best possible care. She promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Thetford Mines community through proactive physiotherapy strategies. Fluent in French, Alexandra ensures clear communication and personalized service for her French-speaking patients, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel valued and understood.

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

Common Msk

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Common back problems that can impact your posture, ability to perform daily activities, and overall mobility, addressed with targeted physiotherapy.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Discomfort felt around the shoulder blade, at the top of the shoulder, or radiating down the arm, making simple tasks challenging.

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

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Alexandra. 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 CA (CLSC de Thetford-Mines), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Alexandra frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients struggling with facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) can find dedicated and compassionate support from Alexandra. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as handling your job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending.
• Tired of swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment interfering with easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips? Alexandra uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve improved joint health and a slowing of degenerative processes through better biomechanics and regain your freedom of movement.
• Patients often come to Alexandra feeling defeated by frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues and resuming getting on and off the floor with ease becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Alexandra practices at CISSS CA (CLSC de Thetford-Mines), situated in a central location within Thetford Mines. This public healthcare facility is conveniently positioned in the heart of the community, making it easily accessible to residents and visitors alike. The clinic is close to various local community services and pharmacies, ensuring that patients can coordinate their healthcare needs efficiently. It is accessible via multiple local public transit routes, providing convenient transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiotherapy Technologist to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to initiate physiotherapy services, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is advisable to check your insurance policy before your first appointment to confirm coverage requirements.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiotherapy Technologist uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It’s helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if specific criteria are met, but private clinic physiotherapy is usually not included. It is recommended to verify your coverage directly with RAMQ and to consult with your private insurance provider for details.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapy Technologist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master’s degree in physiotherapy and is an autonomous healthcare professional authorized to perform patient assessments, establish diagnoses, create and modify treatment plans, and perform certain restricted activities. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatment modalities, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress within a treatment plan, but do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

CISSS CA (CLSC de Thetford-Mines)
17, Rue Notre-Dame Ouest, bureau 100
Thetford Mines, QC G6G 1J1

Phone: (418) 338-3511

Alexandra Couture 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.