Elise Marchand – Physiotherapist | Lévis, QC

Elise Marchand is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Lymphedema Management Focus). Practicing at Centre régional intégré en cancérologie in Lévis, QC, Elise is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She specializes in managing primary and secondary lymphedema using evidence-based techniques such as Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which includes manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), compression bandaging and garments, therapeutic exercises, and skin care strategies. Elise’s approach is holistic, addressing physical impairments and functional limitations resulting from cancer treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, with the goal of improving quality of life, reducing fatigue, alleviating pain, and managing swelling.

Serving adults and seniors, Elise’s physiotherapy services are tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs and goals. She strives to empower her patients through education, helping them understand their condition and adopt practical self-management techniques that foster long-term wellness. Her compassionate approach emphasizes restoring mobility, reducing discomfort, and supporting overall health, enabling her patients to regain confidence in their daily activities and maintain independence.

Elise completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience in oncology rehabilitation and lymphedema management. She is committed to ongoing professional development, staying current with the latest research and treatment modalities to ensure her patients receive the most effective care. Fluent in French, Elise actively involves her patients in their treatment planning, promoting a collaborative, patient-centered approach that prioritizes their safety, comfort, and progress.

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

Oncology Related

• Cancer-Related Fatigue, Weakness & Deconditioning: Physiotherapy to combat weakness, fatigue, and loss of fitness that can occur as a side effect of cancer or treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
• Post-Mastectomy/Lumpectomy & Axillary Surgery Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy aimed at restoring shoulder, arm, and chest wall range of motion, strength, and function after breast cancer surgery (e.g., mastectomy, lumpectomy, axillary lymph node dissection, sentinel lymph node biopsy).

Lymphedema

• Lymphedema Management (Primary or Secondary): Chronic swelling, typically in an arm or leg (but can affect other body parts), caused by a compromised or damaged lymphatic system. Primary lymphedema is due to congenital factors; secondary lymphedema often occurs after cancer treatment (e.g., lymph node removal or radiation), surgery, infection, or trauma.

Chronic Pain

• Persistent Post-Surgical Pain (Chronic): Physiotherapy for managing pain that lingers long after surgical recovery, employing strategies such as graded motor imagery, desensitization techniques, specific exercises, manual therapy (if appropriate), and pain education to address complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or other chronic post-operative pain states.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) - Activity Management: Supporting individuals with CFS/ME to manage their symptoms, avoid PEM, and find sustainable ways to engage in activity, often in collaboration with other healthcare providers.
• Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory and mood issues (often called 'fibro fog'), and tender points.
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) - Supportive Care: Physiotherapy for CRPS aims to manage severe pain, improve mobility and function, desensitize the affected limb, and promote normal use, often using techniques like graded motor imagery, mirror therapy, sensory discrimination training, and gentle graded exercise.

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

• Oncology (Cancer) Rehabilitation Physiotherapy: Individualized exercise and rehabilitation programs tailored by a Physiotherapist with oncology training to meet the unique needs and goals of individuals living with or recovering from cancer.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Post-Mastectomy / Lumpectomy / Breast Cancer Surgery Rehabilitation: Supporting your physical and functional recovery after breast cancer treatment, helping you regain optimal arm and shoulder function and manage potential side effects.
• 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: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.

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

• Many find that managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease significantly impacts their ability to giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture. Elise helps patients target improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Physiotherapy with Elise can be a transformative turning point for those affected by difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain. The shared goal is achieving greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching, paving the way for you to enjoy reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain and a more active, vibrant life.
• Many individuals seek help from Elise, their physiotherapist, when feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence.

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

Elise practices at the Centre régional intégré en cancérologie, situated in the Lévis Centre in the Lauzon neighborhood of Lévis. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Les Galeries Chagnon shopping mall and is easily accessible via the Société de transport de Lévis (STLévis) bus network. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Additionally, free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby, making your visit comfortable and convenient.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can also perform certain advanced procedures if they have the required additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They play a crucial role in delivering care by implementing treatment plans designed by a physiotherapist or physician, assisting patients with their exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising professional.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiothérapeute to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

To make your first appointment as smooth and productive as possible, please consider bringing: your health card, any doctor's referral letter (if applicable), results or reports of any imaging tests (X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs) related to your current condition, a list of any medications you are currently taking, and your extended health benefits information (insurance card/policy number) for direct billing if available at our clinic. Wearing comfortable clothes is also a good idea.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiothérapeute will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy coverage varies. Generally, RAMQ does not cover private outpatient physiotherapy services, but some exceptions exist for specific populations or circumstances, such as post-hospitalization or certain low-income groups. Most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics is paid out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Patients are advised to verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult their private extended health insurance plans for coverage details.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, as direct access is permitted. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check the requirements of your insurance plan before your appointment to ensure coverage.

Centre régional intégré en cancérologie
101, Rue Mont-Marie
Lévis, QC G6V 5C2

Phone: (418) 830-7474

Elise Marchand 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.