Émilie Renaud-Lafrance – Physiotherapist | Cap-aux-Meules, QC

Émilie Renaud-Lafrance is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at CISSS DES ILES in Cap-aux-Meules, 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). Émilie approaches each patient with empathy and support, understanding that every individual’s journey to recovery is unique. Her goal is to help clients regain function, improve mobility, and manage symptoms effectively, fostering a positive environment for healing and wellness.

Specializing in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and post-operative conditions, Émilie assists individuals of all ages — from older children (5+) and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her physiotherapy focus includes treating acute injuries such as sprains and strains, managing chronic pain conditions like arthritis, and supporting clients through comprehensive rehabilitation after surgeries or neurological events like stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Émilie's holistic approach ensures that her patients receive personalized care tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Émilie completed her degree in Physiotherapy with a strong foundation in evidence-based practices and ongoing professional development. She has developed particular expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Neurological Physiotherapy, continuously updating her skills to provide the most effective treatments. Her practice philosophy emphasizes empowering patients through education and practical self-management strategies, fostering lasting improvements. Émilie is fluent in French and English, ensuring clear communication and comfort for her diverse clientele.

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

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.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): An inflammatory arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis (a skin condition), causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and sometimes affecting tendons (enthesitis) and ligaments. Can affect small or large joints, often asymmetrically, and sometimes the spine.
• 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.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Physiotherapy to address residual joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and functional loss after an acute gout attack has subsided, or to help manage musculoskeletal impairments and tophi-related issues associated with chronic gout, always in conjunction with appropriate medical management for urate control.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.

Hand & Wrist

• 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.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.

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

• 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.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• 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.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Providing professional physiotherapy assessment, treatment, education, and exercise prescription directly in the comfort and convenience of your home environment, especially for those who have difficulty attending an outpatient clinic due to mobility issues, severe pain, or other constraints.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.

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 CISSS DES ILES, 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:

• Rediscover your ability to engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours without the constant burden of recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches. Émilie focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• It's truly rewarding for Émilie to witness patients conquer my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night and experience feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in getting on and off the floor with ease again.
• Don't let that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity dictate what you can and cannot do. Émilie offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor, helping you reclaim getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Émilie's practice at CISSS DES ILES is situated in a modern clinic located in the central neighborhood of Cap-aux-Meules. This public healthcare facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access care. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring accessible transportation options for a wide range of 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?

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.

Does CISSS DES ILES offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, CISSS DES ILES offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. We will handle the billing process directly with your insurer, making it easier for you to focus on your recovery. However, it is always advisable to confirm your coverage with your insurance provider prior to your appointment, as some plans may have specific requirements or limitations.

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, a process known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm their specific requirements.

What are CISSS DES ILES's operating hours?

CISSS DES ILES 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 day. Please contact the clinic at [Insert Clinic Phone Number] or visit our website for the most current schedule and practitioner availability.

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

Physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ for the majority of patients. However, certain services provided within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered under specific circumstances. Most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics is paid out-of-pocket or through private insurance. It is advisable to verify your coverage directly with RAMQ and your insurance provider.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions required varies depending on your condition and recovery progress. Some issues resolve after a few sessions, while others may require ongoing treatment over weeks or months. Émilie will assess your specific needs and provide an estimated treatment plan after your initial consultation.

What is CISSS DES ILES's appointment cancellation policy?

We kindly ask patients to provide at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the appointment time to other patients. Late cancellations or missed appointments without sufficient notice may incur a fee, typically equivalent to 50% of the service or a set amount such as $XX. Please contact the clinic as soon as possible if you need to modify your appointment.

CISSS DES ILES
430, Chemin Principal
Cap-aux-Meules, QC G4T 1R9

Phone: (418) 986-2121

Émilie Renaud-Lafrance 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.