Claudia Lavoie – Physiotherapist | Rivière-du-Loup, QC

Claudia Lavoie is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at CISSS du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées in Rivière-du-Loup, QC, Claudia is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her practice emphasizes providing specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions such as torticollis, orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and to promote optimal motor function and participation. Claudia’s approach involves comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plans designed to support each child's unique needs, fostering healthy growth, mobility, and participation in daily activities.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, Claudia has developed expertise in managing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. Her services extend from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and post-operative rehabilitation. She is passionate about supporting children of all ages, from infants to 17 years, ensuring their physical development progresses smoothly and safely. Her goal is to empower families with knowledge and strategies that promote long-term health and activity for their children.

Claudia completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing professional development. She has cultivated a particular interest in Pediatric Physiotherapy and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal physiotherapy, continuously refining her skills through courses and practical application. Her practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, emphasizing evidence-based interventions, continuous learning, and patient empowerment. Claudia is fluent in English and French, allowing her to effectively communicate with a diverse patient population and provide culturally sensitive care.

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

Sports Injury

• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): An overuse injury affecting the lower leg, common in athletes, dancers, and military recruits, characterized by diffuse pain along the tibia.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): A common overuse injury in active individuals and athletes, sometimes referred to as 'runner's knee' or 'anterior knee pain', often related to biomechanical issues in how the kneecap tracks.
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): Sharp or burning pain on the outer side of the knee that often starts gradually and worsens with continued activity, sometimes radiating up the thigh or down the leg.

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Gentle and progressive physiotherapy rehabilitation following spinal surgery (e.g., for disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or spinal fusion), initiated once cleared by your surgeon, to improve mobility, core strength, posture, reduce pain, and safely return to daily activities.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Specialized physiotherapy focused on regaining shoulder movement, strength, stability, and function after various types of shoulder surgeries, such as rotator cuff repair, labral tear repair, shoulder stabilization procedures (e.g., Bankart repair), or shoulder joint replacement (arthroplasty).
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): A progressive rehabilitation program after surgery to fix a broken bone, helping you regain full use of your arm or leg and return to your normal activities.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

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

• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Congenital Muscular Torticollis & Plagiocephaly (Flat Head) Treatment: Early intervention physiotherapy crucial for correcting infant neck posture, promoting symmetrical head and neck movement, and improving head shape, often preventing the need for helmet therapy or more invasive measures.
• 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.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• 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.
• Pediatric Physiotherapy (Infants, Children & Adolescents): Expert physiotherapy care for a wide range of pediatric physical challenges, promoting healthy movement and lifelong activity.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Claudia. 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 du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Claudia frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• When working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching your back, physiotherapy with Claudia can help you work towards restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Living with post-operative stiffness and weakness that's slowing down my recovery doesn't have to be your norm. Claudia applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards regaining full function in an injured area, enabling a return to cherished activities, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of playing a full game of recreational hockey with your friends.
• The path to recovery from breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity and achieving feeling more like their 'old self' before their injury or condition began for reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches often starts with expert guidance. Claudia, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Claudia practices at the CISSS du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées, situated in a central Rivière-du-Loup neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easily accessible for patients. The clinic is accessible via multiple local public transit routes, ensuring a smooth and convenient visit. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiothérapeute will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Essentially, physiotherapy helps you get moving and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you're dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiothérapeute will work with you. They’ll use their expertise in body mechanics, rehabilitation, and pain management to create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and practical advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active, fulfilling life.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master’s degree in physiotherapy. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Is there parking available at or near CISSS du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Limited street parking is generally available on nearby streets, and a paid public parkade is located a short walk away. Please check local signage for restrictions and time limits.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally access a Physiothérapeute directly (known as direct access) without a physician's referral. However, some private health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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

Generally, physiotherapy services in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Coverage may be available if the physiotherapy is provided within a hospital or CLSC setting and meets specific criteria. Always check with RAMQ and your insurance provider for details.

CISSS du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées
75, Rue Saint-Henri
Rivière-du-Loup, QC G5R 2A4

Phone: (418) 868-1000

Claudia Lavoie 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.