Charlie Fougères – Physiotherapist | L’Épiphanie, QC

Charlie Fougères is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Espace Physio L'Épiphanie in L'Épiphanie, QC, Charlie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. With a focus on performance and athletic rehabilitation, Charlie specializes in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. Whether managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, or chronic ailments like arthritis, Charlie tailors each treatment plan to optimize recovery, enhance function, and support athletic performance.

In addition to general musculoskeletal care, Charlie offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. His approach aims to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk, helping clients regain confidence in their movement. Charlie serves a diverse clientele, including older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring comprehensive support across all ages and activity levels.

Charlie's educational background includes a degree in Physiotherapy, complemented by extensive clinical experience and ongoing professional development. He has developed particular expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. His practice philosophy emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals through education and personalized strategies. Charlie is fluent in French and English, facilitating clear communication and empowering clients in their recovery journey.

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

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy management of acute and persistent symptoms of a concussion, including addressing associated neck pain/dysfunction (cervicogenic component), vestibular (balance/dizziness) issues, oculomotor (eye movement) problems, and exertional intolerance.

Neurological

• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy aimed at improving mobility (e.g., walking, transfers), balance, strength, coordination, sensation, and daily function (e.g., dressing, self-care) after a stroke (cerebrovascular accident).
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy support for the physical challenges of Multiple Sclerosis, focusing on maximizing mobility, safety, and participation in daily 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

• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Physiotherapy aimed at improving your balance, coordination, lower limb strength, reaction time, and confidence to reduce your risk of falling and enhance safe mobility in your home and community.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Resolving the spinning sensations caused by BPPV quickly and effectively through targeted canalith repositioning techniques, often providing immediate relief.
• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Individualized exercise programs including gaze stabilization exercises (e.g., VORx1, VORx2), habituation exercises (for motion sensitivity), and balance retraining to improve function when the vestibular system is impaired.

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

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• 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.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Charlie. 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 Espace Physio L'Épiphanie, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Charlie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Don't let a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) dictate what you can and cannot do. Charlie offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health, helping you reclaim playing a full game of recreational hockey with your friends and enjoy a more functional life.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult? Charlie works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of improved performance in work-related physical demands. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as peacefully paddling your kayak or canoe on the lake for hours.
• Are you finding that an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak stops you from enjoying maintaining your balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails? Charlie is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions) through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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

Charlie practices at Espace Physio L'Épiphanie, situated in the heart of the L'Épiphanie community. The clinic is located in a modern facility within the central neighborhood, easily accessible for clients from surrounding areas. The practice is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy to incorporate physiotherapy into your routine. The clinic is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free visit. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of physiotherapy sessions required varies greatly from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of your condition, how long you've had the issue (acute vs. chronic), your individual treatment goals, your body's unique response to therapy, and how consistently you are able to follow your prescribed home exercise program and self-management advice. Your Physiothérapeute will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated duration after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some services, such as those received within public hospitals or CLSCs under specific criteria, may be covered. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private extended health insurance plans, as many offer substantial coverage for physiotherapy in private clinics.

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

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you’re being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiothérapeute can properly examine and treat the area.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy to confirm specific requirements before your first visit.

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 degree in university, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma (DEC) focused on technical application, assisting physiotherapists in implementing treatment plans, helping with exercises, and applying modalities under supervision.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary soreness after treatment is normal. However, if your pain worsens significantly, or you develop new symptoms, or if discomfort persists beyond a couple of days, please contact us. Your Physiothérapeute will want to assess your condition and adjust your care plan as necessary. Open communication ensures the best possible recovery outcome.

Espace Physio L'Épiphanie
16, Rue Leblanc, #104
L'Épiphanie, QC J5X 4R9

Phone: (450) 588-5698 | Website: www.espace-physio.com

Charlie Fougères 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.