Claire Lajeunesse – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Claire Lajeunesse is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Moveo Sports and Manual Physiotherapy in Ottawa, ON, Claire Lajeunesse is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Claire Lajeunesse's focus is addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains, to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Claire Lajeunesse serves adults.

Claire Lajeunesse completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 1996). With extensive clinical experience, Claire Lajeunesse is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Claire Lajeunesse has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Claire Lajeunesse's practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy. Claire Lajeunesse employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Claire Lajeunesse offers consultations in English, French.

Claire Lajeunesse provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, 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): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Physiotherapy to address residual joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and functional loss after an acute gout attack has subsided, or to help manage musculoskeletal impairments and tophi-related issues associated with chronic gout, always in conjunction with appropriate medical management for urate control.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Helping to manage the musculoskeletal aspects of psoriatic disease, working in conjunction with medical management to optimize your physical function and comfort.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Claire Lajeunesse can assess your needs.

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• 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): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Claire Lajeunesse, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

At Moveo Sports and Manual Physiotherapy, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Claire Lajeunesse frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many patients have found lasting relief from experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy and achieved greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching under the skilled care of Claire Lajeunesse. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache with a new lease on life.
• The path to recovery from dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women) and achieving feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health for driving for longer periods without neck or back pain often starts with expert guidance. Claire Lajeunesse, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Struggling with the frustration of recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim)? Claire Lajeunesse develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving building the necessary muscle support for their joints, reducing the risk of re-injury. This is key to helping you get back to doing easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• For those whose a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) has made being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms seem like a distant memory, Claire Lajeunesse's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to being able to carry their baby or toddler without straining their back or arms with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Claire Lajeunesse practices at Moveo Sports and Manual Physiotherapy, located in the Orleans (Fallingbrook, Queenswood Heights) neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near CF Rideau Centre and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics for most Ontarians. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility criteria are strict and waitlists may exist. Always check your private insurance coverage, as many plans offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand your plan's specifics. Key things to check include your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If our clinic offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

Patients in ON can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to discuss your issue's history and overall health with your Physiotherapist, who will then perform physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and areas of concern. The goal is to understand your condition fully to develop a tailored treatment plan. You might also receive initial home exercises or hands-on care.

How can I book an appointment at Moveo Sports and Manual Physiotherapy?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (613) 424-6683 during business hours. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

Moveo Sports and Manual Physiotherapy
Unit D - 2003 Saint Joseph Boulevard
Ottawa, ON, K1C 1E5

Phone: (613) 424-6683

Claire Lajeunesse is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Registration Number: XXX95

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=f3e89edc-8b02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.