Annie Sheehy

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

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Post-traumatic neck pain, restricted movement, and associated issues common after car accidents, which benefit from early and appropriate physiotherapy intervention.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.

Post Surgical

• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Comprehensive physiotherapy for knee ligament injuries post-operatively, focusing on restoring full knee function, power, and agility to meet your specific athletic or lifestyle demands.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): A structured physiotherapy program to manage post-operative pain and swelling, improve knee flexibility and strength, and re-educate your gait pattern after a TKA or PKA.

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis focuses on maintaining spinal mobility and flexibility (especially extension), improving posture, strengthening core and back muscles, managing pain, and providing education on self-management and regular exercise.
• 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.

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

• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• 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.
• 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: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.

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 CIUSSS LAC ST-JEAN EST, 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:

• Are you finding that difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain stops you from enjoying pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty? Annie is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• The path to recovery from breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity and achieving moving more freely and with greater agility than they have in years for handling your job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending often starts with expert guidance. Annie, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Annie believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort is hindering your ability to hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter, a personalized plan focusing on getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care can make all the difference.

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

Annie practices at CIUSSS LAC ST-JEAN EST, situated within a modern clinic located in the central neighborhood of Alma. The facility is part of the 'Clinique externe de centre hospitalier' and is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies. Accessibility is facilitated via multiple public transit routes, ensuring ease of access for patients from various parts of the region. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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 may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It’s important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private health insurance plans, as many offer substantial coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiothérapeute 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.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access 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's requirements before your first appointment.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It is difficult to determine the exact number of sessions required without an initial assessment, as each individual’s condition and recovery process are unique. Some issues resolve quickly within a few sessions, while others may need ongoing care over several weeks. Your Physiothérapeute will provide an estimated treatment plan after your first visit and adjust it as needed throughout your course of care.

What is CIUSSS LAC ST-JEAN EST's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand schedules can change unexpectedly. To accommodate all patients fairly, we request at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or no-shows with insufficient notice may incur a fee, typically a percentage of the service cost or a set amount. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment.

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 degree in physiotherapy, allowing autonomous assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and focuses on implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, and applying modalities under supervision, playing a vital role in patient care.

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

Many private insurance plans offer partial or full coverage for physiotherapy services. It is recommended to contact your insurer before your first visit to understand your coverage limits, co-payments, and whether a referral is required for reimbursement. We can often bill your insurance directly if your plan permits. Please bring your insurance details to your appointment for smooth processing.

CIUSSS LAC ST-JEAN EST
300, Boulevard Champlain S, CP 1300
Alma, QC G8B 5W3

Phone: (438) 838-6741

Annie Sheehy 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.