Chantal Lavigne – Physiotherapist | Gatineau, QC

Chantal Lavigne is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at CISSS de l'Outaouais - Centre de réadaptation en déficience physique La RessourSe in Gatineau, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Chantal's approach emphasizes understanding each individual's unique needs and working collaboratively to develop personalized treatment plans that promote recovery, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being.

Specializing in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and soft tissue conditions, Chantal assists adults and seniors in overcoming pain, recovering function after injuries or surgeries, and managing chronic conditions. Her practice includes helping those affected by neurological events such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. With a compassionate and empathetic approach, she strives to empower her patients through education and support, guiding them on their journey to better health and independence.

Chantal completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has gained extensive clinical experience, which she continually enriches through ongoing professional development. She has developed particular expertise in Orthopedic, Musculoskeletal, and Neurological Physiotherapy. Her philosophy centers on empowering patients with practical self-management strategies, promoting preventative care, and fostering long-term wellness within the Gatineau community. Chantal is fluent in French, ensuring clear and effective communication with her patients.

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

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Helping you regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve function in affected joints after a gout episode, as part of your overall gout management plan.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): An inflammatory arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis (a skin condition), causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and sometimes affecting tendons (enthesitis) and ligaments. Can affect small or large joints, often asymmetrically, and sometimes the spine.
• 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.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Helping you live well with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies through targeted physiotherapy interventions designed to manage symptoms, preserve function, and promote overall well-being.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.

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

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Helping you overcome dizziness, vertigo, and unsteadiness with targeted vestibular exercises and strategies, enabling you to return to daily activities with greater stability and comfort.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Comprehensive assessment of your fall risk factors with individualized interventions, including balance exercises, strength training, gait re-training, and home safety advice to help you prevent falls.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Chantal. 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'Outaouais - Centre de réadaptation en déficience physique La RessourSe, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Chantal frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Living with persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady doesn't have to be your norm. Chantal applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter.
• Tired of an awkward gait or limping when I walk interfering with running your usual 5k route without knee pain? Chantal uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment and regain your freedom of movement.
• Don't let recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) dictate what you can and cannot do. Chantal offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple, helping you reclaim operating machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Chantal practices at the CISSS de l'Outaouais - Centre de réadaptation en déficience physique La RessourSe, situated in the Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighborhood of Gatineau. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Les Galeries de Hull and is easily accessible via Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), including the Rapibus BRT system. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without needing a referral from a doctor, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to see a Physiothérapeute, some private and extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

What are CISSS de l'Outaouais - Centre de réadaptation en déficience physique La RessourSe's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours can vary depending on the practitioner and day. Please call the clinic at [contact number] or visit our website for the most current schedule and practitioner availability.

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 use private insurance. Certain services within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered under specific criteria. It is recommended to verify your coverage directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for details.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, almost all patients will receive a customized home exercise program tailored to their specific needs. Performing these exercises regularly is vital to support your progress and maintain the benefits of your physiotherapy treatment.

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

A Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree and is authorized to assess, diagnose, and create treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, implementing treatment plans and guiding exercises but not diagnosing or independently planning treatment. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy aims to reduce pain and restore function. Some treatments might cause mild discomfort or soreness temporarily, but your therapist will work within your tolerance and communicate clearly. If you experience significant pain during treatment, inform your therapist immediately.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your first appointment involves a comprehensive assessment, including discussing your medical history, current symptoms, and goals. This is followed by a physical examination, and based on the findings, your therapist will discuss a personalized treatment plan and may begin initial interventions or education to help you start your recovery journey.

CISSS de l'Outaouais - Centre de réadaptation en déficience physique La RessourSe
135, Boulevard Saint-Raymond
Gatineau, QC J8Y 6M3

Phone: (819) 777-6261

Chantal Lavigne 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.