About
Colette Ducousso is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at CISSS des Laurentides in Saint-Jérôme, 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). Colette’s approach focuses on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and post-surgical conditions, aiming to help her patients recover function, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life. Her practice is rooted in compassion and community engagement, ensuring that each individual receives personalized attention tailored to their unique needs.
In her role, Colette specializes in treating various conditions including joint pain, arthritis, tendinopathies, and recovering from surgeries such as knee, hip, or fracture repairs. She also assists individuals managing neurological conditions like stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and spinal cord injuries. Colette’s goal is to support adults and seniors in regaining mobility, enhancing strength, and maintaining independence through evidence-based physiotherapy interventions and education. Her compassionate and thorough approach fosters a trusting environment where patients feel empowered to participate actively in their recovery journey.
Colette completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated extensive clinical experience, with a particular interest in orthopedic, musculoskeletal, and neurological physiotherapy. She is dedicated to continuous professional development, staying current with the latest research and techniques to ensure her patients benefit from the best possible care. Fluent in both English and French, Colette communicates effectively with her diverse community, making sure that her patients fully understand their treatment plans and feel supported throughout their rehabilitation process.
Colette Ducousso provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Post Surgical
- Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Comprehensive post-operative recovery guidance following knee replacement, including exercises, manual therapy, and education to ensure you achieve your best possible function.
- Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Helping you manage pain, improve scar mobility, and regain optimal strength and range of motion in a limb following fracture fixation surgery.
- Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Guidance on hip precautions (if applicable for your surgical approach), a progressive exercise program, and functional retraining after hip surgery to help you achieve your goals.
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): 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.
Arthritis
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize quality of life.
- 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.
- 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.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Colette can assess your needs.
- Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
- Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Specialized therapeutic interventions provided by a Neuro Physiotherapist to assist individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, balance, coordination, strength, and independence following a neurological event or diagnosis.
- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
- Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
- Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
- 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 Colette. 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 des Laurentides, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Colette frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- It's truly rewarding for Colette to witness patients conquer pain or weakness that's stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies and experience a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain again.
- Many find that one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain significantly impacts their ability to engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours. Colette helps patients target a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
- Discover how physiotherapy with Colette can help you move beyond trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury. The focus is on resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Colette, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Colette practices at CISSS des Laurentides, situated in the Downtown Saint-Jérôme, Saint-Antoine Sector neighborhood of Saint-Jérôme. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Downtown Saint-Jérôme and is accessible via exo (Secteur Laurentides - Bus). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.
- 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 doctor's referral, which is known as direct access. However, it’s important to check with your private insurance provider, as some plans may require a referral for reimbursement. Always verify your insurance requirements before your appointment.
- Is there parking available at or near CISSS des Laurentides?
- Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Additional street parking and paid parkades are also generally accessible nearby. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
- Is physiotherapy covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- Most physiotherapy services at private clinics are not covered by RAMQ in Quebec. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received in hospitals or CLSCs might be covered under certain conditions. It's advisable to verify your specific coverage with RAMQ and your insurance provider.
- What is the difference between a Physiotherapist (Physiothérapeute) and a Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) in Quebec?
- A Physiothérapeute has completed a master's level university education, allowing for autonomous assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma and assists in implementing treatment plans under supervision, focusing on technical aspects of care.
- Will I be given exercises to do at home?
- Yes, almost always. Your Physiothérapeute will develop a customized home exercise program aimed at supporting your progress and helping you maintain your improvements between visits. Performing these exercises regularly is key to your recovery success.
CISSS des Laurentides
1000, Rue Labelle
Saint-Jérôme, QC J7Z 5N6
Phone: (450) 432-2777
Colette Ducousso 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.