Émilie Ducharme

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

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Helping you live well with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies through targeted physiotherapy interventions designed to manage symptoms, preserve function, and promote overall well-being.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Individualized exercise programs and pain management strategies tailored for psoriatic arthritis to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Common Msk

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Discomfort felt around the shoulder blade, at the top of the shoulder, or radiating down the arm, making simple tasks challenging.

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

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• 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: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.

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

• It's truly rewarding for Émilie to witness patients conquer childhood complaints of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night and see their children reach developmental milestones more easily (for pediatric physiotherapy). A tailored approach focusing on your specific needs can make a substantial difference in your ability to participate confidently in activities like public speaking or maintaining good posture during work.
• The journey to regaining strength after surgery or inactivity, especially when dealing with persistent issues like tennis or golfer's elbow, is made more effective through Émilie's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling return to activities and restful sleep free from pain.
• Through personalized physiotherapy, common concerns such as pain or difficulty with overhead movements—like reaching into a high cabinet—are thoroughly assessed and addressed, often improving pelvic floor function and control for relevant conditions. This includes in-clinic treatments, education, and self-management strategies, helping patients enjoy activities like reading comfortably without headaches or neck pain.

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

Émilie's practice at CMI Contrecoeur is situated in a modern clinic located in the central neighborhood of Contrecoeur. The clinic is conveniently positioned within the community, close to local services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access care. The facility is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring convenient transportation options for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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).

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

[State that AHCIP provides limited coverage for some physiotherapy services, typically after hospital discharge or for specific low-income individuals/seniors through particular programs. Most outpatient private clinic physiotherapy is NOT directly covered by AHCIP for the general population. Most patients will rely on private insurance or pay out-of-pocket. For BC (MSP): Explain that MSP provides partial coverage (a set amount per visit) for a limited number of physiotherapy visits (currently 10 combined per year for supplementary benefits including physio, chiro, massage, etc.) ONLY for eligible individuals with lower incomes (e.g., those on Premium Assistance). Most patients will have a co-payment and will rely on private insurance for full coverage. For ON (OHIP): State clearly that OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics for most of the population. Public physiotherapy services are available in specific circumstances, such as post-hospitalization, children, seniors, or through community clinics, but with eligibility restrictions. For QC (RAMQ): Explain that RAMQ generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Always verify individual eligibility with RAMQ and check private insurance policies.

What are CMI Contrecoeur's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some practitioners also offering Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours may vary depending on the practitioner and day. Please call the clinic at (xxx) xxx-xxxx or visit our website for up-to-date scheduling and availability.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiothérapeute will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. A physical examination will follow to identify the source of your condition and evaluate your movement and strength. The therapist will then explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a tailored plan of care. You may receive initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to support your recovery.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy directly without a referral (known as direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify your insurance policy to confirm their requirements before your appointment.

Is there parking available at or near CMI Contrecoeur?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside the building. Look for designated patient spots. Additional street parking may be available on nearby streets, and paid parking options are also accessible if needed. Always check local signage for restrictions.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiothérapeute, is a science-based health profession focused on restoring movement, reducing pain, and improving function. It employs techniques like therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, education, and lifestyle advice to help you recover from injury or illness and prevent future problems. Émilie will work with you to develop a personalized plan tailored to your needs and goals.

CMI Contrecoeur
4900, Rue des Patriotes
Contrecoeur, QC J0L 1C0

Phone: (450) 587-8882 | Website: https://www.physiocmi.net/

Émilie Ducharme 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.