Étienne Ménard-Cholette – Physiotherapist | Gatineau, QC

Étienne Ménard-Cholette is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Physio Outaouais / Clinique du coureur in Gatineau, QC, Étienne is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). His approach focuses on understanding each individual's unique needs and fostering a warm, welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable and involved in their recovery journey.

Étienne's expertise encompasses addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. He specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, tailoring care to help athletes of all levels—recreational, amateur, and elite—return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries. Étienne serves a diverse patient population, including older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring that everyone in his community receives attentive, personalized physiotherapy services.

With a solid educational foundation and extensive clinical experience, Étienne completed his degree in Physiotherapy and is dedicated to ongoing professional development. He has cultivated skills and a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Sports Physiotherapy, continually updating his practice with evidence-based techniques. Étienne believes in a collaborative, patient-centered philosophy, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. His approach emphasizes prevention and long-term wellness, promoting proactive physiotherapy to enhance quality of life. Étienne is fluent in both French and English, allowing him to connect effectively with a diverse community of patients and colleagues.

Étienne Ménard-Cholette 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): A common overuse injury in active individuals and athletes, sometimes referred to as 'runner's knee' or 'anterior knee pain', often related to biomechanical issues in how the kneecap tracks.
• Muscle Strains (e.g., Hamstring, Calf, Groin, Quadriceps, Rotator Cuff): Common athletic injuries affecting major muscle groups such as the hamstrings, calves, groin (adductors), quadriceps, or rotator cuff muscles of the shoulder.

Common Msk

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Difficulty with activities like reaching for objects, dressing, personal care, or carrying items due to underlying shoulder issues, which physiotherapy can help diagnose and treat.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.

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.

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

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy to address persistent concussion symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, balance problems, visual disturbances, and difficulty concentrating or tolerating activity.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Specialized and progressive physiotherapy care for athletes of all levels, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, sport-specific exercise, and safe, timely return-to-sport protocols.
• Gait Analysis & Running/Walking Re-training: Helping you move better and reduce injury risk by analyzing and correcting your walking or running technique, addressing issues like overpronation, hip drop, or poor cadence.
• Sports Performance Enhancement & Injury Prevention: Movement analysis, strength and conditioning advice, and targeted exercises designed by your Physiotherapist to enhance your athletic performance, improve biomechanics, optimize movement efficiency, and reduce your risk of sports-related injuries.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Étienne. 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 Physio Outaouais / Clinique du coureur, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Étienne frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work? Étienne works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as carrying a backpack or shoulder bag comfortably.
• If recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) is preventing you from fully enjoying driving for longer periods without neck or back pain, Étienne offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• The path to recovery from feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort and achieving being able to travel more comfortably and with less planning around physical limitations for maintaining an upright posture while working on your computer for hours often starts with expert guidance. Étienne, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.

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

Étienne practices at Physio Outaouais / Clinique du coureur, situated in the vibrant Aylmer Sector Central neighborhood of Gatineau. The clinic is conveniently located near Terminus de la Cité, making it easily accessible for residents in the area. Easily reachable via Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), including the Rapibus BRT system, the clinic offers a straightforward location for many community members. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

How can I book an appointment at Physio Outaouais / Clinique du coureur?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (819) 775-9515 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy coverage through RAMQ is limited. Typically, RAMQ covers physiotherapy services only in specific circumstances, such as post-hospitalization or for certain low-income populations, and most outpatient private clinic physiotherapy is paid out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Patients are advised to verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and check their private extended health plans for coverage options.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session primarily involves a comprehensive assessment. Étienne will discuss your medical history, current concerns, and treatment goals. Following this, he will perform physical tests to evaluate movement, strength, and areas of discomfort. This initial visit aims to establish an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include hands-on therapy, exercises, and home recommendations.

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

No, in Quebec, patients can access physiotherapy directly without a referral, known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check your insurance policy beforehand.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, provided by a qualified Physiothérapeute, is a science-based health profession aimed at restoring movement and function. It employs techniques such as therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, education, and advice to help individuals recover from injury, reduce pain, and prevent future issues. Étienne is dedicated to empowering patients to manage their health effectively.

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

If you experience increased pain, new symptoms, or if discomfort persists beyond a couple of days, contact Étienne or the clinic promptly. While some soreness can be normal, worsening symptoms should be evaluated to adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a university master's degree, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and assists physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, helping with exercises, and providing care under supervision.

Physio Outaouais / Clinique du coureur
406, Boulevard Alexandre-Taché
Gatineau, QC J9A 1M5

Phone: (819) 775-9515

Étienne Ménard-Cholette 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.