Ann-Sophie Poulin – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Ann-Sophie Poulin is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Kinatex - Apex Physio Val-Bélair in Québec, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Ann-Sophie’s approach is rooted in understanding each individual's unique needs, ensuring a compassionate and supportive environment for recovery and wellness. Her focus is on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, helping patients regain movement, reduce pain, and improve overall function through tailored physiotherapy interventions.

Ann-Sophie’s role extends beyond treatment; she actively promotes preventative care and long-term wellness within the Québec community. Her comprehensive approach involves educating patients about their conditions, empowering them with the tools and knowledge necessary to maintain their health beyond the clinic. With a background in evidence-based physiotherapy, Ann-Sophie continuously updates her skills and knowledge, ensuring her practice incorporates the latest techniques and research. She serves adult patients with a variety of conditions, emphasizing a collaborative and respectful partnership to achieve optimal health outcomes.

Fluent in both French and English, Ann-Sophie fosters effective communication and trust with her diverse patient base. Her philosophy centers on a respectful, empathetic, and supportive approach, ensuring each individual feels valued and understood throughout their recovery journey.

Ann-Sophie Poulin provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

Common Msk

• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Aching, sharp pain, a feeling of the knee 'giving way', or difficulty fully bending or straightening your knee.
• 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.

Post Surgical

• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A structured physiotherapy plan to help you recover full function, independence, and confidence in your new hip after replacement surgery.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Restoring spinal function, core stability, and body mechanics post-operatively, ensuring a safe progression back to work, hobbies, and an active lifestyle.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): A progressive rehabilitation program after surgery to fix a broken bone, helping you regain full use of your arm or leg and return to your normal activities.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.

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

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: A non-invasive electrotherapy modality aimed at reducing pain, muscle guarding, or swelling, and sometimes used for muscle strengthening, as part of your physiotherapy treatment.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Ann-Sophie. 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 Kinatex - Apex Physio Val-Bélair, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Ann-Sophie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Ann-Sophie believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night is hindering your ability to cycling longer distances with your cycling club, a personalized plan focusing on being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again can make all the difference.
• With Ann-Sophie's help, managing my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly) to achieve enhanced ability to participate in social and community events becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like peacefully paddling your kayak or canoe on the lake for hours.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Ann-Sophie can help you move beyond trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The focus is on resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.

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

Ann-Sophie practices at Kinatex - Apex Physio Val-Bélair, situated in a modern clinic located in the central Québec neighborhood of Québec. The facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is well-integrated with public transit routes, providing accessible transportation options for patients from various parts of the city. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at Kinatex - Apex Physio Val-Bélair treat?

Ann-Sophie treats a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues like back and neck pain, joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, and nerve pain. She also has specialized skills in areas like Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, addressing conditions such as tendinopathies, post-operative rehabilitation, and chronic pain management. Treatments often involve modalities like Therapeutic Ultrasound Application, Cryotherapy, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness, it should not be excessively painful. Ann-Sophie will discuss what sensations to expect and will adjust the treatment intensity to ensure your comfort while still providing therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

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

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. It is recommended to contact your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand your coverage limits, co-payments, and whether a referral is required. Our clinic often provides direct billing if your plan allows, which means we can bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment.

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, a process known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy 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 use private insurance. Care received through public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is important to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

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, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, diagnose, and develop treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and assists in implementing treatment plans, applying modalities, and supporting patients under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician.

Kinatex - Apex Physio Val-Bélair
1147, Boulevard Pie-XI N, # 102
Québec, QC G3K 2P8

Phone: (418) 845-2502 | Website: kinatex.com

Ann-Sophie Poulin 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.