Catherine Van Neste – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Catherine Van Neste is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Geriatric Physiotherapy Focus / Seniors' Health). Practicing at CHU de Québec (Hôpital de l'enfant-Jésus) in Québec, QC, Catherine is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). She specializes in addressing the unique health needs of older adults, focusing on improving and maintaining mobility, strength, and balance. Her approach aims to help seniors manage age-related conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis, reduce fall risk, and enhance overall quality of life and independence. Catherine offers tailored assessments and treatments for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues, with the goal of reducing symptoms, improving stability, and fostering confidence in daily activities.

Throughout her career, Catherine has served children, adolescents, and adults, always emphasizing a performance-oriented, athletic approach to rehabilitation. Her philosophy revolves around empowering her patients through education and practical self-management strategies that produce lasting results. With a focus on evidence-based practice, she continuously updates her skills to incorporate the latest physiotherapy techniques and research findings, ensuring her patients receive the most effective care possible.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Catherine has developed a particular interest in Geriatric Physiotherapy and Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. She is fluent in English and French, allowing her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population and tailor her interventions to individual needs and preferences.

Catherine Van Neste 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): Aching, burning, sharp pain, or a 'pins and needles' sensation in the wrist, thumb, or hand region, sometimes waking you at night.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Common injuries related to physical activity, sports participation, accidental falls, or overuse from daily or work-related tasks.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.

Neurological

• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurological rehabilitation provided by a Neuro Physiotherapist to help individuals regain independence, maximize their recovery potential, and adapt to any residual impairments following a stroke.
• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Helping individuals with Parkinson's Disease maintain mobility, functional independence, and safety, and improve their quality of movement and life.
• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy for weakness or paralysis of facial muscles, often affecting one side of the face (e.g., Bell's Palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, post-surgical facial nerve injury).

Vestibular Balance

• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): A chronic functional dizziness disorder characterized by persistent sensations of dizziness, unsteadiness, or non-spinning vertigo (often lasting for 3 months or more), typically exacerbated by upright posture, active or passive motion, or exposure to complex or moving visual environments (e.g., busy supermarkets, scrolling on a screen). Often follows an acute vestibular event, medical illness, or period of psychological distress.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Comprehensive balance assessment by a Physiotherapist to identify underlying causes of unsteadiness, followed by targeted exercise programs and strategies to help you stay steady on your feet.

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

• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Helping you manage fibromyalgia symptoms through targeted exercise, education on pain mechanisms, and self-care strategies to improve daily function and overall quality of life.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Multifaceted and individualized physiotherapy approaches including pain science education (understanding your pain), graded exercise therapy, pacing strategies, coping mechanisms, manual therapy (where appropriate), and relaxation techniques to help you manage persistent pain and improve your quality of life.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiothérapeute to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Catherine. 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 CHU de Québec (Hôpital de l'enfant-Jésus), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Catherine frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• For those whose soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise has made being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house seem like a distant memory, Catherine's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Many find that pain or weakness that’s stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies significantly impacts their ability to going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again. Catherine helps patients target resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of trying to stay as mobile and active as possible while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? Catherine works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout.

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

Catherine practices at the CHU de Québec (Hôpital de l'enfant-Jésus), situated within a modern clinic in the central Québec neighborhood of Québec. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The hospital is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring easy access for those relying on public transportation. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What is CHU de Québec (Hôpital de l'enfant-Jésus)'s appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee equivalent to 50% of the service cost or a set amount like $50 may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments (no-shows) without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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

It’s helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiothérapeute.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance plans. Some services received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if they meet specific criteria. It is advisable to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance policies, as many extended health plans offer substantial coverage for physiotherapy in private clinics.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans or extended health benefits may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check your insurance policy beforehand to confirm whether a referral is necessary for coverage.

CHU de Québec (Hôpital de l'enfant-Jésus)
1401, Rue 18e
Québec, QC G1J 1Z4

Phone: (418) 525-4444

Catherine Van Neste 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.