Audrey Larouche – Physiotherapy Technologist | Alma, QC

Audrey Larouche is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSSS du Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean - Hôpital d'Alma in Alma, QC, Audrey is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). She plays a vital role in supporting patients' recovery by assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to promote healing and functional improvement.

Audrey's approach focuses on personalized care tailored to each individual's needs, emphasizing evidence-based practices and ongoing professional development. She serves a broad demographic, including older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring that her physiotherapy interventions are effective and appropriate for a wide range of age groups and conditions. Her goal is to facilitate optimal recovery, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life for her patients.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy techniques and a commitment to continuous learning, Audrey strives to provide comprehensive and compassionate care. Her practice is characterized by a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to set realistic goals and achieve meaningful health outcomes. Audrey is fluent in both English and French, enabling her to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations.

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

Common Msk

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Symptoms in your hand or wrist that impact your ability to perform your job, hobbies, or essential self-care tasks, addressed by specialized hand physiotherapy.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Difficulty with activities like reaching for objects, dressing, personal care, or carrying items due to underlying shoulder issues, which physiotherapy can help diagnose and treat.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Pain, swelling, clicking, locking, or instability in or around the knee joint from various causes like ligament sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL), meniscal tears (managed conservatively), or patellofemoral (kneecap) pain.

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

• 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.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Audrey. 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 du Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean - Hôpital d'Alma, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Audrey frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Audrey can help you move beyond wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night. The focus is on a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort.
• Many find that awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) significantly impacts their ability to attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout. Audrey helps patients target noticeable strength gains in their limbs, supporting more demanding tasks with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Rediscover your ability to taking group exercise classes at the community center without the constant burden of widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia. Audrey focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to a noticeable reduction in daily discomfort, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Audrey practices at the CIUSSS du Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean - Hôpital d'Alma, situated in a clinic located in the central Alma neighborhood of Alma. This public healthcare facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive healthcare options. The clinic is accessible via multiple local public transit routes, ensuring convenient transportation options for all patients. 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 are typically responsible for the costs unless they have private insurance coverage. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting specific criteria. Many patients rely on private insurance plans to cover outpatient physiotherapy. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance provider for coverage details.

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

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

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 is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by your Physiotherapy Technologist as part of your overall physiotherapy plan. These techniques are designed to assess and treat your joints, muscles, and nerves to decrease pain and improve your mobility and function. Examples include specific joint mobilizations to improve movement, soft tissue release techniques to address muscle tightness or scar tissue, and sometimes manipulations (adjustments) if indicated and appropriate for your condition and your therapist's qualifications.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to receive treatment, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider to confirm their requirements before your appointment.

CIUSSS du Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean - Hôpital d'Alma
300, Boulevard Champlain S
Alma, QC G8B 5W3

Phone: (418) 669-2000

Audrey Larouche 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.