Diane Drouin – Physiotherapist | Gatineau, QC

Diane Drouin is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire in Gatineau, 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). Diane’s approach emphasizes understanding each patient’s unique needs, fostering a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered and confident in their recovery journey.

Specializing in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, Diane offers comprehensive assessment and treatment for issues involving muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Her expertise extends to managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic conditions like arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Diane also provides specialized care for jaw pain (TMJ/TMD), orofacial pain, and various headaches with a musculoskeletal component, helping patients regain comfort and function in their daily lives.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Diane has developed a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as TMJ and headache management. She serves a diverse clientele, including older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors. Her compassionate approach ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their specific goals and circumstances.

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

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal 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 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.
• 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.

Hand & Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Physiotherapy to help you regain optimal use of your hand and wrist after an injury, surgery, or due to a chronic condition, enabling you to return to work, hobbies, and daily tasks.

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

• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.
• 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.
• Acupuncture (Medical or Traditional): Insertion of fine, sterile needles by a certified Physiotherapist at specific acupoints on the body, based on principles of traditional Chinese medicine or medical acupuncture, to promote healing, relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore balance within the body.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Gentle, active manual therapy techniques where you use your own specific muscle contractions against your therapist's controlled resistance to improve joint mobility, lengthen tight tissues, and reduce pain.
• Dry Needling / Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS): A technique aimed at releasing muscle knots (trigger points) that can cause local or referred pain, alleviating persistent myofascial pain syndromes, and improving neuromuscular communication to restore normal muscle activity.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Diane. 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 Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Diane frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• With Diane's help, managing loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury to achieve returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like taking energetic, long walks with your dog every day.
• It's truly rewarding for Diane to witness patients conquer feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older and experience a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in getting back to golfing 18 holes without your back acting up again.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Diane can help you move beyond clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk. The focus is on getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as running your usual 5k route without knee pain.

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

Practicing at the Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire, Diane’s clinic is situated in the Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighborhood of Gatineau. The clinic is conveniently located near the Maison de la culture de Gatineau, making it easily accessible for residents of the area. It is well-served by public transportation, including services from the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO) and the Rapibus BRT system, ensuring comfortable and straightforward access for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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).

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral might not be legally required to see a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider beforehand to confirm their specific requirements for coverage.

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.

Does Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire offers direct billing for most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. If direct billing isn't available for your insurer, we provide official receipts that you can submit directly to your insurer for reimbursement. We recommend confirming your coverage with your insurance provider beforehand, as plans vary and you are responsible for any costs not covered.

What are Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some practitioners offering Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours may vary depending on the practitioner and the day. Please call our office at (819) XXX-XXXX or visit our website for the most current schedule and availability.

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

In Quebec, the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Coverage may be available if the care is received within a public hospital or CLSC under specific circumstances. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for comprehensive coverage options.

Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire
15, Rue Gamelin, # 602
Gatineau, QC J8Y 6N5

Phone: (819) 593-3669

Diane Drouin 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.