Debbie Skitt – Physiotherapist | Kirkland, QC

Debbie Skitt is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Debbie Physiothérapie in Kirkland, QC, Debbie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach focuses on understanding each patient's unique needs and tailoring treatments to facilitate recovery, improve function, and promote overall wellness. Debbie's compassionate and supportive attitude ensures that her patients feel valued, informed, and empowered throughout their rehabilitation journey.

Debbie's physiotherapy practice involves 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. She specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, providing care tailored to athletes of all levels—from recreational enthusiasts to elite competitors—helping them return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, Debbie continually updates her skills through ongoing professional development. Her focus on personalized care, combined with her expertise in orthopedic and musculoskeletal physiotherapy and sports physiotherapy, allows her to deliver effective treatments that restore function and improve quality of life for her adult patients.

Debbie Skitt 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): 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.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.

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.

Common Msk

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Aching, sharp, or persistent pain located in the lower back, which may sometimes extend into the buttocks or legs, limiting your comfort.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Common injuries in active individuals, athletes, or resulting from accidents, leading to localized pain, swelling, bruising, and weakness in the affected muscle (e.g., hamstring, calf, quadriceps, groin, rotator cuff).
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.

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

• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Baseline concussion testing (if offered by the clinic/practitioner) and evidence-based post-injury management to ensure a safe and effective recovery from mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI).

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

• Are you finding that pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) stops you from enjoying joining in on pickup basketball games at the local court? Debbie is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain and achieved decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues under the skilled care of Debbie. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches with a new lease on life.
• Struggling with the frustration of needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity? Debbie develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications. This is key to helping you get back to doing running your usual 5k route without knee pain with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Debbie's practice at Debbie Physiothérapie is situated in a modern, welcoming clinic located in the central neighborhood of Kirkland. The clinic is conveniently positioned within the community, close to local services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access their appointments. The facility is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring that patients from various parts of the region can reach us with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair 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?

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Debbie or your {province_title} directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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

In Quebec, most physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are not covered directly by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance plans. Some publicly funded physiotherapy services may be available within hospitals or CLSCs for specific populations or conditions. It is advisable to verify your eligibility and coverage with RAMQ and consult your private insurance provider for potential reimbursement options.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows Debbie to easily access and assess the area being treated. For example, shorts for knee or hip issues, a tank top or loose t-shirt for shoulder or neck problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally suitable. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Debbie can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. Through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modifications, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

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

In Quebec, patients 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 with your insurance provider beforehand. Regardless, Debbie is happy to see patients directly and will guide you through your treatment options.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your initial appointment involves a comprehensive assessment. Debbie will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and goals. This is followed by a physical examination, including assessing your range of motion, strength, posture, and movement patterns. Based on the findings, Debbie will provide a diagnosis or clinical impression, explain your personalized treatment plan, and often initiate some treatment or provide education and exercises to start your recovery.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute holds a university master’s degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiothérapeute or physician. They assist with prescribed treatments, guide exercises, and monitor progress but do not diagnose or independently plan treatment. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Debbie Physiothérapie
46-A, Rue de Lacey Green
Kirkland, QC H9H 3H2

Phone: (514) 349-2366 | Website: Debbie Physiotherapie

Debbie Skitt 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.