Caroline Fournier – Physiotherapy Technologist | Maria, QC

Caroline Fournier is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS de la Gaspésie-RLS de la Baie des Chaleurs in Maria, QC, Caroline is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role involves assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by a physiotherapist or physician, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Caroline’s approach is rooted in fostering an active, performance-oriented mindset, empowering her patients to reach their athletic and daily activity goals.

Caroline serves a diverse range of patients, including many senior individuals, with a focus on enhancing mobility, strength, and overall physical function. Her expertise extends to working with athletes and active adults, helping them optimize performance, prevent injuries, and recover effectively from soft tissue injuries or musculoskeletal conditions. Her tailored interventions and emphasis on evidence-based practices ensure that each patient receives personalized care aimed at achieving lasting results and supporting an active lifestyle.

With a strong foundation in physiotherapy practices, Caroline completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that underscores her dedication to ongoing professional development. She specializes in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, consistently integrating the latest evidence into her practice. Caroline’s philosophy centers on a collaborative, educational approach, ensuring her patients are well-informed and motivated to maintain their progress long-term. She is fluent in English and French, facilitating clear communication with a broad patient demographic.

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

Common Msk

• 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.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Disorders affecting hand and wrist function, making daily tasks such as gripping objects, typing, writing, or fine motor activities difficult and painful.
• 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.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 Caroline. 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 la Gaspésie-RLS de la Baie des Chaleurs, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Caroline frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Caroline frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets seeing their child achieve developmental milestones with greater ease (for pediatric physio) and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like dressing myself independently and without difficulty, including shoes and socks.
• When tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating your back, physiotherapy with Caroline can help you work towards the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Patients struggling with needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity can find dedicated and compassionate support from Caroline. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as maintaining your balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails.

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

Caroline practices within the CISSS de la Gaspésie-RLS de la Baie des Chaleurs clinic, situated in the central Maria neighborhood of Maria. This public sector facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive healthcare in one location. The clinic is accessible via multiple local public transit routes, facilitating transportation for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapy Technologist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

How can I book an appointment at CISSS de la Gaspésie-RLS de la Baie des Chaleurs?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (418) 388-2572 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

In Quebec, physiotherapy coverage through RAMQ is limited. Generally, RAMQ does not cover outpatient physiotherapy services in private clinics. However, certain cases such as post-hospitalization or specific programs for seniors may be covered. Most patients rely on private insurance or pay out-of-pocket. It’s important to verify your specific eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage details.

Does CISSS de la Gaspésie-RLS de la Baie des Chaleurs offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, our clinic offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. While we do our best to facilitate billing, it’s advisable to confirm coverage and any specific requirements with your insurance provider beforehand. Any remaining balance not covered by your insurer is the patient's responsibility.

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, which is known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement. It is recommended to check your insurance policy details before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

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 level university education, allowing them to assess patients, diagnose conditions, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They support physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress, playing a vital role in patient care within the healthcare team.

CISSS de la Gaspésie-RLS de la Baie des Chaleurs
419, Boulevard Perron
Maria, QC G0C 1Y0

Phone: (418) 388-2572

Caroline Fournier 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.