Emilie Deschenes – Physiotherapist | Gatineau, QC

Emilie Deschenes is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Clinique Neurogym inc. in Gatineau, QC, Emilie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Emilie's approach emphasizes tailored interventions designed to help individuals recover function, regain mobility, and improve their overall quality of life following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Her expertise extends to assessing and managing dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunctions. Emilie aims to reduce symptoms, enhance stability, and decrease fall risk through evidence-based, functional strategies tailored to each patient's unique needs.

Serving a diverse range of clients, Emilie works with older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring a comprehensive approach that respects the individual’s age, condition, and lifestyle. Her clinical practice is grounded in ongoing professional development, with a particular interest in neurological physiotherapy and vestibular rehabilitation, which enables her to offer the latest techniques and interventions. Emilie’s commitment to excellence is reflected in her personalized treatment plans, combining manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and patient education to optimize recovery and foster independence.

Emilie’s practice philosophy revolves around a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous learning. She believes in empowering her patients by providing clear, practical education about their conditions and self-management strategies to promote lasting results. Emilie is fluent in English and French, allowing her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population and ensure understanding and comfort throughout the rehabilitation process.

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

Neurological

• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Comprehensive physiotherapy focusing on improving strength in available muscles, enhancing functional mobility, and promoting health and wellness after a spinal cord injury.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy strategies to help manage common MS symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, spasticity, balance problems, walking difficulties, pain, and bladder dysfunction, aiming to maintain function, improve quality of life, and promote self-management.
• Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: Rehabilitation strategies tailored to the unique and often variable presentation of FND, working collaboratively with the patient to achieve their functional goals.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, resulting in a range of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties (e.g., 'brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

Peripheral Nerve

• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Addressing the physical consequences of nerve damage in the limbs through targeted exercises (e.g., for balance, strength, desensitization), sensory re-education, and advice on appropriate footwear or assistive devices.
• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Addressing conditions affecting nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, aiming to relieve pressure on the nerve, reduce inflammation, and restore normal nerve function.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Comprehensive care for concussion recovery, including initial assessment of symptoms (headache, dizziness, etc.), management of associated neck pain or dysfunction, vestibular and oculomotor (eye movement) rehabilitation, and guided, gradual return-to-learn, work, and sport protocols.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Tailored exercises, hands-on techniques, and functional strategies to manage symptoms (e.g., spasticity, weakness, ataxia) and optimize function in various neurological conditions, promoting participation in daily life.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Bringing expert physiotherapy services to you when clinic visits are challenging, ensuring continuity of care and personalized attention in your familiar surroundings.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Effective virtual physiotherapy care to help you manage your condition, progress your rehabilitation, and receive professional advice when in-person visits are challenging or not preferred.

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

• At Emilie's physiotherapy practice, individuals with that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit are guided towards greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as participating in light recreational activities like bowling or mini-golf.
• Physiotherapy with Emilie can be a transformative turning point for those affected by difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain. The shared goal is achieving being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again, paving the way for you to enjoy keeping up with your team during our weekly soccer match and a more active, vibrant life.
• The path to recovery from general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden and achieving feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities for driving for longer periods without neck or back pain often starts with expert guidance. Emilie, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Emilie practices at Clinique Neurogym inc., located in the Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighborhood of Gatineau. This private clinic facility is conveniently situated near the Hôpital de Gatineau area and is easily accessible by public transportation, including the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), with options like the Rapibus BRT. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, which is known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to begin physiotherapy, some private or extended health insurance plans may mandate one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

What is Clinique Neurogym inc.'s appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee of 50% of the service cost or a set amount (e.g., $50) may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

The initial physiotherapy session, which includes a detailed assessment and treatment planning, usually lasts about 60 minutes. Follow-up sessions are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration depends on your specific needs and treatment plan, as determined by Emilie.

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 and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and perform a wide range of interventions independently. A Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises but cannot diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients often pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered under certain circumstances, but private clinic physiotherapy typically is not. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans, as many offer coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

Clinique Neurogym inc.
209, Rue Gamelin, 200
Gatineau, QC J8Y 1W2

Phone: (819) 777-2500

Emilie Deschenes 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.