Eric Fortin – Physiotherapist | Rimouski, QC

Eric Fortin is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Clinique de physiothérapie de Rimouski in Rimouski, QC. He 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). Eric’s approach emphasizes a thorough assessment and personalized treatment plans designed to address each patient’s unique needs, especially those seeking to optimize their performance and return to athletic activity quickly and safely.

Eric's expertise encompasses a broad range of musculoskeletal conditions, including acute injuries such as sprains and strains, chronic pain management, arthritis care, and post-operative rehabilitation. He specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, working closely with athletes of all levels—from recreational enthusiasts to elite competitors. His goal is to help athletes improve performance, prevent future injuries, and return to their sport with confidence and resilience.

With a solid foundation in orthopedic and musculoskeletal physiotherapy and sports physiotherapy, Eric completed his degree in Physiotherapy and continually advances his skills through ongoing professional development. His practice philosophy is rooted in a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Eric is fluent in both English and French, ensuring clear communication and personalized care for his diverse patient community.

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

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Helping to alleviate the symptoms of a catching, locking, or painful finger/thumb through targeted physiotherapy interventions, potentially avoiding the need for injections or surgery in some cases.

Common Msk

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Common ankle injuries causing acute pain, persistent swelling, and instability, significantly affecting your ability to walk, run, or participate in sports.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).
• 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.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.

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

• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Utilizing electrophysical agents as an adjunct to your physiotherapy treatments to aid recovery, improve muscle function, manage pain, or reduce swelling, tailored to your specific condition.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.

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

• Tired of hip pain when I walk, climb stairs, or try to sleep on my side interfering with easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips? Eric uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings and regain your freedom of movement.
• If recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches is preventing you from fully enjoying going on birdwatching outings in various terrains, Eric offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Don't let recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee dictate what you can and cannot do. Eric offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions), helping you reclaim dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Eric practices at the Clinique de physiothérapie de Rimouski, situated in the heart of Rimouski in a modern clinic within the central Rimouski neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near various community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access care. It is well connected by local public transit routes, ensuring that patients can travel with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services provided within private clinics are typically not covered by RAMQ, and patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. However, certain care received directly within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private extended health insurance plans for coverage details.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make diagnoses, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and focuses on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments, assisting physiotherapists or physicians with implementing treatment plans, guiding exercises, and reporting progress.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access 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 advisable to check your insurance policy details before your first appointment.

How can I book an appointment at Clinique de physiothérapie de Rimouski?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (418) 722-9595 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer online booking through our website at www.cliniquephysiotherapierimouski.com. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in scheduling a suitable time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, similar to after a workout. However, if your pain worsens significantly, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if discomfort persists beyond a couple of days, please contact us. Your Physiothérapeute would want to know so they can advise and adjust your care plan accordingly. Open communication is essential for your recovery.

Clinique de physiothérapie de Rimouski
176, Avenue Rouleau, # 206
Rimouski, QC G5L 8W1

Phone: (418) 722-9595 | Website: www.cliniquephysiotherapierimouski.com

Eric Fortin 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.