Cindy Fortin – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Cindy Fortin is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at PCN Ste-Foy in Québec, 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). With a focus on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, Cindy's approach involves comprehensive assessments, personalized treatment plans, and evidence-based interventions designed to optimize recovery and function.

Cindy's expertise encompasses the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of various conditions affecting muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Her practice includes managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, chronic pain conditions, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. She also specializes in sports physiotherapy, tailoring care to help athletes of all levels—from recreational to elite—return safely to their sport, improve performance, and prevent future injuries. Her approach is holistic, emphasizing patient education and self-management strategies to promote long-term health.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Cindy has cultivated skills in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Sports Physiotherapy. She serves older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring accessible and effective physiotherapy services for diverse patient populations. Her philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear communication, collaborative goal setting, and practical strategies to achieve lasting improvements in mobility and well-being.

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

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.

Sports Injury

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Pain felt around, under, or behind the kneecap (patella), often described as a dull ache that is aggravated by activities like running, jumping, squatting, using stairs (especially going down), or prolonged sitting with the knee bent.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Pain and tenderness along the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia), often resulting from running, jumping, or other repetitive impact activities, especially with sudden increases in training intensity or volume.
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): Pain, typically sharp or burning, located on the outside (lateral aspect) of the knee, or sometimes the hip. Common in runners, cyclists, and other endurance athletes, caused by irritation or inflammation of the iliotibial (IT) band as it rubs over bony prominences.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy for concussion recovery, focusing on symptom management, restoring normal function, and preventing long-term complications through evidence-based interventions.

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

• Sports Performance Enhancement & Injury Prevention: Strategies and training programs to fine-tune your physical capabilities, improve sport-specific skills, and ensure you are well-prepared for the demands of your sport.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Helping you get back in the game quickly and safely with targeted sports physiotherapy, focusing on restoring strength, agility, and confidence.
• Gait Analysis & Running/Walking Re-training: Detailed biomechanical assessment of your walking or running patterns, often using video analysis, to identify inefficiencies, asymmetries, or faulty mechanics that may contribute to pain or injury.
• Orthopedic Bracing & Support Consultation/Fitting: Expert guidance on the appropriate selection, use, and care of braces and supports for various musculoskeletal conditions affecting the knee, ankle, wrist, back, or other joints.
• Therapeutic & Athletic Taping (e.g., Kinesio, McConnell, Rigid): Utilizing different taping methods, chosen by your therapist based on your specific needs, to assist with pain relief, support injured areas, reduce swelling, or improve proprioceptive feedback.
• Custom Foot Orthotic Assessment & Prescription (if offered/certified): Comprehensive evaluation by a qualified Physiotherapist of your foot mechanics, lower limb alignment, and gait pattern to determine the need for custom-made foot orthotics.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Cindy. 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 PCN Ste-Foy, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Cindy frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• It's truly rewarding for Cindy to witness patients conquer frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders and experience successfully integrating safe movement strategies into their daily routines. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence again.
• Cindy believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke is hindering your ability to taking energetic, long walks with your dog every day, a personalized plan focusing on developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns can make all the difference.
• Struggling with the frustration of that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder? Cindy develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved performance in work-related physical demands. This is key to helping you get back to doing being able to carry your baby or toddler without straining your back or arms with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Cindy practices at PCN Ste-Foy, located in the central neighborhood of Québec, QC. The clinic is situated within a modern facility that is easily accessible by public transit, with nearby community services and pharmacies making it convenient for patients. The practice is committed to providing accessible care in a welcoming environment. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at PCN Ste-Foy treat?

Our Physiothérapeutes treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain, joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries like ligament sprains or tendinopathies, and nerve pain. We also have therapists with specialized skills in areas like Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Sports Physiotherapy. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, exercise prescription, patient education, and injury prevention strategies to help you achieve your functional goals.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you’ll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone’s situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more complex or chronic issues may require longer-term care. Your Physiothérapeute will provide an estimated treatment timeline after your initial assessment, which will be adjusted as needed throughout your care plan.

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

Some temporary soreness after treatment can be normal. However, if your pain significantly worsens, or if you experience new or concerning symptoms, please contact us promptly. Your Physiothérapeute would want to know so they can assess your condition and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is essential for a safe and effective recovery.

What is the difference between a Physiothérapeute and a Technologue en physiothérapie in Quebec?

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments and works under the supervision of a Physiothérapeute or physician to implement treatment plans, assist with exercises, and report progress.

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

In general, physiotherapy services performed in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ in Quebec. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is advisable to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans, as many offer substantial coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques used by your Physiothérapeute to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, relax tight muscles, and enhance nerve mobility. Common methods include joint mobilizations, soft tissue massage, joint manipulations, and sustained pressures, all aimed at restoring optimal movement and function.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check your insurance policy beforehand to understand any specific requirements.

PCN Ste-Foy
3211, Chemin Sainte-Foy
Québec, QC G1X 1R3

Phone: (418) 653-1930

Cindy Fortin 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.