Annie-Pier Hamel – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Annie-Pier Hamel is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Kinatex Sports Physio l'Ormière in Québec, QC. She is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that adheres to the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Annie-Pier’s approach emphasizes a comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment plans to promote optimal recovery and long-term wellness for her patients.

Specializing in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, Annie-Pier focuses on conditions involving muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Her clinical practice includes managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. She utilizes advanced techniques such as dry needling (IMS) and acupuncture as part of an integrated treatment strategy to reduce pain, alleviate muscle tension, improve nerve function, and facilitate tissue healing, particularly for neuromusculoskeletal disorders. Her patient demographic primarily includes adults and seniors seeking effective, evidence-based physiotherapy interventions.

Annie-Pier completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated valuable clinical experience, which she continually enhances through ongoing professional development. She has developed particular expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, with a special interest in Dry Needling and acupuncture. Her practice philosophy is rooted in a collaborative, patient-centered approach that involves individuals actively in their treatment planning and goal setting. Annie-Pier is fluent in French, ensuring clear communication and personalized care for her Quebec-based patients.

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

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A physiotherapy approach to address the unique challenges of AS, aiming to keep you as mobile and active as possible and support your spinal health and overall well-being.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.

Sports Injury

• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Damage to ligaments that can range from mild (Grade 1 - overstretched) to moderate (Grade 2 - partial tear) to severe (Grade 3 - complete tear), impacting joint integrity and function.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue (periosteum) around the tibia, which requires rest, activity modification, and specific physiotherapy interventions for recovery.
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): A common cause of lateral knee pain in athletes, often linked to training errors, muscle imbalances (e.g., weak hip abductors), or poor biomechanics, which physiotherapy aims to address.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): An overuse injury where the bone is unable to withstand repetitive mechanical loading, requiring a period of offloading and gradual rehabilitation guided by a physiotherapist for safe return to activity.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Back or neck pain accompanied by associated limb symptoms (pain, sensory changes, weakness) due to a constricted spinal canal, which physiotherapy can help manage conservatively.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.

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

• 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.
• 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 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.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Annie-Pier. 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 Sports Physio l'Ormière, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Annie-Pier frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Annie-Pier frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of feeling like my joints are just 'wearing out' and getting harder to move. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain.
• If pain or weakness that's stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies is preventing you from fully enjoying walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness, Annie-Pier offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining improved balance and coordination, leading to safer and more confident mobility in seniors, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Don't let that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit dictate what you can and cannot do. Annie-Pier offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at feeling equipped with effective self-management strategies and exercises, helping you reclaim enduring your daily commute, whether driving or on public transit, without stiffness and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Annie-Pier practices at Kinatex Sports Physio l'Ormière, situated in a central Québec neighborhood. The clinic is housed within a private facility that is conveniently accessible by public transit, with nearby community services and pharmacies. Our location is designed to facilitate ease of access for patients, ensuring they can attend appointments with minimal inconvenience. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, and ample parking is generally available close to the entrance, making it easy for patients to arrive and depart comfortably.

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 for coverage. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private extended health benefits, as many plans offer coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This varies depending on individual factors. After a comprehensive initial assessment, Annie-Pier will provide an estimated number of sessions and treatment frequency tailored to your needs. Regular reviews of your progress will help adjust the plan to ensure optimal recovery and goal achievement.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral, a practice 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 first appointment.

How can I book an appointment at Kinatex Sports Physio l'Ormière?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic directly at (418) 915-7477 during business hours. Many practitioners also offer online booking via the clinic's website. Our friendly staff will assist you in scheduling a suitable time with the appropriate physiotherapist for your needs.

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

It is helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters, relevant medical reports or images (X-rays, MRIs), and your insurance information if applicable. Wearing comfortable clothing that allows easy movement during assessment is also recommended.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal is to reduce pain and improve function. Some treatments may cause mild or temporary discomfort, but Annie-Pier always works within your tolerance levels and communicates clearly. If you experience significant pain, inform her immediately to adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

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

A Physiothérapeute has completed a master's level university degree and is authorized to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and assists physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, assisting patients, and reporting progress under supervision.

Kinatex Sports Physio l'Ormière
9030, Boulevard de l'Ormière, # 202
Québec, QC G2B 3K3

Phone: (418) 915-7477

Annie-Pier Hamel 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.