Annie St-Onge – Physiotherapy Technologist | Val-d’Or, QC

Annie St-Onge is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue in Val-d'Or, QC, Annie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her role involves assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and improve functional mobility. Annie primarily serves adults and seniors, helping them regain strength, mobility, and confidence through tailored physiotherapy interventions.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy technology, Annie has completed her college-level diploma in physiotherapy technology and has gained clinical experience that emphasizes evidence-based practices. She is committed to ongoing professional development, staying current with the latest techniques and modalities to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Annie has developed particular expertise in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application such as ultrasound, and patient monitoring, allowing her to deliver comprehensive and effective care tailored to each individual's needs.

Annie adopts a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. She promotes preventative care and long-term wellness within the Val-d'Or community through proactive physiotherapy strategies. Annie strongly believes in evidence-based practice and continuous learning to provide the best possible care. She is fluent in English and French, ensuring clear communication and personalized service for a diverse patient population.

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

Common Msk

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.
• 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).
• 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.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Common knee complaints that can affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, squat, run, or participate in sports, addressed through a tailored physiotherapy program.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• 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.

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 CISSS de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue, 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 believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) is hindering your ability to cycling longer distances with your cycling club, a personalized plan focusing on a reduction in nerve-related symptoms like tingling or numbness can make all the difference.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Annie can help you move beyond recovering your strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID). The focus is on a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as attending your favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation.
• If that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away is preventing you from fully enjoying playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder pain, Annie offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining noticeable strength gains in their limbs, supporting more demanding tasks, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Annie practices at the CISSS de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue, situated within a central clinic in the Val-d'Or neighborhood of Val-d'Or, QC. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near various community services and pharmacies, making access straightforward for local residents. The clinic is easily reachable via multiple public transit routes, ensuring that patients can attend their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting specific criteria, but outpatient private physiotherapy is typically not reimbursed by RAMQ. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private extended health insurance plans for coverage options.

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

A Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and perform restricted activities. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) has a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises without diagnosing or independently planning treatments. Both are regulated by the OPPQ.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician’s referral, a practice known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check your insurance policy's specific requirements before your appointment.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This varies depending on your condition and goals. After an initial assessment, Annie will provide an estimate of the number of sessions and frequency required. Progress reviews are conducted regularly to adjust treatment plans as needed.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, Annie will prescribe personalized home exercises tailored to your condition and goals. These exercises help reinforce in-clinic therapy, promote recovery, and empower you to maintain improvements independently. Active participation in your home program is essential for optimal results.

CISSS de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue
725, Rue 6e
Val-d'Or, QC J9P 3Y1

Phone: (819) 825-5858

Annie St-Onge 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.