Eric Samson – Physiotherapist | Lévis, QC

Eric Samson is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CISSS de Chaudière-Appalaches - Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis in Lévis, QC, Eric is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. His role involves providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their overall quality of life. Whether addressing sports injuries, chronic joint issues, or post-surgical recovery, Eric strives to tailor each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of his patients, fostering a supportive environment that encourages healing and wellness.
Eric's approach to physiotherapy is rooted in evidence-based practices combined with a compassionate, community-focused philosophy. He believes in actively involving patients in their recovery journey, emphasizing education, prevention, and empowerment. His dedication extends beyond immediate injury management to promoting long-term wellness and injury prevention, contributing positively to the Lévis community. With ongoing professional development, Eric stays current with the latest physiotherapy techniques and research, ensuring his patients receive the highest standard of care. Fluent in both English and French, Eric communicates effectively with a diverse range of patients, making sure everyone feels understood and supported throughout their rehabilitation process.

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

Sports Injury

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Pain felt around, under, or behind the kneecap (patella), often described as a dull ache that is aggravated by activities like running, jumping, squatting, using stairs (especially going down), or prolonged sitting with the knee bent.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): An overuse injury affecting the lower leg, common in athletes, dancers, and military recruits, characterized by diffuse pain along the tibia.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): Tiny cracks or severe bruising within a bone caused by repetitive force, overuse, or cumulative stress, common in weight-bearing bones of the lower leg (tibia, fibula), foot (metatarsals, navicular), or hip in athletes involved in high-impact sports.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.
• 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.

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.

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 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.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.
• 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: The use of moist heat packs, paraffin wax, or other heat sources by your Physiotherapist to relax muscles, increase local blood flow, reduce stiffness, alleviate chronic pain, and improve tissue extensibility.

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 CISSS de Chaudière-Appalaches - Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis, 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 pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) interfering with engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours? Eric uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a safe and confident return to their favorite sport or recreational activity and regain your freedom of movement.
• The journey to enhanced ability to participate in social and community events when faced with persistent feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort is made smoother and more effective with Eric's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like resuming your weightlifting routine at the gym safely.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain and achieved reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease under the skilled care of Eric. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as setting up and taking down equipment for hobbies or sports with a new lease on 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 CISSS de Chaudière-Appalaches - Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis, situated conveniently in the Lévis Centre within the Lauzon neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is easily accessible via the Major East-West Arterial and is well-served by the Société de transport de Lévis (STLévis). The hospital's central location allows for convenient access for patients across Lévis and surrounding communities. 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).

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This is very individual and depends on many factors. After your comprehensive initial assessment, your Physiothérapeute will be able to give you a better idea of the anticipated number of sessions and the frequency of visits needed to achieve your specific goals. We believe in open communication and will regularly review your progress with you, adjusting the treatment plan as you improve and as needed.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy coverage varies. The Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) typically does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Coverage may be available if the treatment occurs within a public hospital or CLSC and meets specific criteria. Patients often pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance for private clinic services. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private extended health insurance plan for coverage details.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally access physiotherapy services directly without a physician’s referral, known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It’s recommended to check your insurance policy before your appointment.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiothérapeute will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what’s done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you’re not in a session.

What are CISSS de Chaudière-Appalaches - Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis’s operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiothérapeute about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.

CISSS de Chaudière-Appalaches - Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis
143, Rue Wolfe
Lévis, QC G6V 3Z1

Phone: (418) 835-7121

Eric Samson 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.