Amélie Desautels – Physiotherapy Technologist | Sherbrooke, QC

Amélie Desautels is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at Action Sport Physio (Sherbrooke) in Sherbrooke, QC, Amélie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role involves assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by a physiotherapist or physician, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Amélie serves a diverse range of patients, addressing a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and helping individuals regain their mobility and reduce pain through personalized interventions.

Amélie completed her degree in Physiotherapy with clinical experience that has solidified her commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. She has developed particular expertise in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, ensuring each individual receives tailored care suited to their unique needs. Her approach emphasizes a thorough understanding of musculoskeletal health, injury prevention, and rehabilitation strategies to optimize outcomes for her patients.

Guided by a collaborative and patient-centered philosophy, Amélie works closely with her patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. She believes in involving individuals actively in their treatment planning, fostering a supportive environment that encourages progress and confidence. Amélie is fluent in French and English, enabling her to communicate effectively with a broad patient demographic and ensure clarity and comfort throughout the treatment process.

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

Common Msk

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Common injuries in active individuals, athletes, or resulting from accidents, leading to localized pain, swelling, bruising, and weakness in the affected muscle (e.g., hamstring, calf, quadriceps, groin, rotator cuff).
• 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.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Amélie. 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 Action Sport Physio (Sherbrooke), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Amélie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many find that an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak significantly impacts their ability to shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating your back. Amélie helps patients target improved ability to lift and carry objects correctly and safely with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• The journey to enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation when faced with persistent feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems is made smoother and more effective with Amélie's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence.
• Struggling with the frustration of feeling like my joints are just 'wearing out' and getting harder to move? Amélie develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity. This is key to helping you get back to doing returning to a specific physical hobby you had to give up due to pain with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Amélie's practice at Action Sport Physio (Sherbrooke) is situated in the Les Nations (Downtown East) neighborhood of Sherbrooke. This private facility is conveniently located near the Université de Sherbrooke Main Campus and is accessible via the Société de transport de Sherbrooke (STS). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy refers to specialized hands-on techniques used by a Physiotherapy Technologist to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This can include joint mobilization (gentle, rhythmic gliding movements), joint manipulation (skilled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, where appropriate and within the therapist's scope and with your consent), various soft tissue mobilization techniques (like massage, myofascial release, trigger point release), and neural mobilization (gentle techniques to improve nerve movement). The primary goals are to reduce pain, improve range of motion, restore optimal joint mechanics, reduce muscle tension, and enhance tissue repair and function.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance plan before your appointment to ensure coverage.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private clinic physiotherapy is usually not included. It is recommended to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

Action Sport Physio (Sherbrooke)
350, Rue Terrill, bureau 172
Sherbrooke, QC J1E 3S7

Phone: (819) 346-6060

Amélie Desautels 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.