Annie Belisle – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Annie Belisle is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CHU de Québec in Québec, QC, Annie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her practice is centered on assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Annie provides specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions like torticollis, orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and to promote optimal motor function and participation.

With a strong foundation in physiotherapy, Annie completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated extensive clinical experience. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development, ensuring her practice remains evidence-based and aligned with the latest advancements in neurological and pediatric physiotherapy. Annie has developed particular expertise and interest in these specialized areas, which allows her to tailor her treatment approaches to meet the unique needs of her diverse patient population, including adults and seniors.

Her practice philosophy emphasizes promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Québec community through a proactive, patient-involved approach. Annie actively involves her patients in their treatment planning and goal setting, fostering empowerment and adherence to therapy. She is fluent in French, ensuring clear and effective communication with her patients and their families.

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

Pediatric

• Pediatric Sports Injuries & Growing Pains (e.g., Osgood-Schlatter, Sever's Disease): Physiotherapy rehabilitation tailored for the unique needs of children and adolescents involved in sports, focusing on safe recovery, pain management, correcting biomechanics, and facilitating a gradual return to play while minimizing risk of re-injury.
• Toe Walking (Idiopathic / Habitual): Physiotherapy interventions for habitual toe walking, which may include stretching tight calf muscles, strengthening other leg muscles, gait retraining exercises, sensory input strategies, and advice on footwear to encourage a heel-toe walking pattern.

Common Msk

• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• 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.
• 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.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, resulting in a range of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties (e.g., 'brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

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

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Tailored exercises, hands-on techniques, and functional strategies to manage symptoms (e.g., spasticity, weakness, ataxia) and optimize function in various neurological conditions, promoting participation in daily life.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Baseline concussion testing (if offered by the clinic/practitioner) and evidence-based post-injury management to ensure a safe and effective recovery from mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI).
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Annie. 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. Annie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Annie frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like using garden tools effectively and without pain.
• Annie believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury is hindering your ability to dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations, a personalized plan focusing on sleeping more soundly through the night due to reduced pain and discomfort can make all the difference.
• Many find that soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise significantly impacts their ability to sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort. Annie helps patients target achieving their specific mobility goals, whether big or small with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Annie practices at CHU de Québec, situated in a modern clinic located in the central Québec neighborhood of Québec. This public healthcare facility is conveniently situated near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access. The clinic is well-connected via multiple public transit routes, ensuring accessible transportation options for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiothérapeute about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.

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 rely on private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is advisable to verify your coverage directly with RAMQ and consult your private health insurance plans, as many offer significant coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to initiate physiotherapy, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's note for reimbursement. It is recommended to check your insurance policy details before your appointment.

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

For your initial visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., RAMQ card, if applicable), any relevant medical documentation such as a doctor's referral note or recent imaging reports, and a list of current medications. Wearing comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement is advised. If you plan to use private insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on your condition, severity, and treatment goals. Your Physiothérapeute will discuss an estimated plan during your assessment and re-evaluate progress regularly to adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques used by your Physiothérapeute to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, relax muscles, and restore nerve movement. Techniques may include joint glides, soft tissue massage, and joint manipulations, all aimed at enhancing your body's movement and function.

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

Phone: (418) 525-4444 | Website: Chudequebec.ca

Annie Belisle 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.