France Simard – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

France Simard is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CHU DE QUÉBEC PAVILLON CHUL in Québec, QC, France is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. With a compassionate approach, France strives to empower her patients by providing personalized assessments and tailored treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals. Her focus is on facilitating recovery, improving mobility, and enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals facing neurological challenges.

France's role extends to assisting individuals in recovering function, managing symptoms, and regaining independence following neurological events such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. She also provides specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents, addressing developmental delays, congenital conditions like torticollis, orthopedic injuries, and neurological conditions to promote optimal motor development and participation in daily activities.

With a solid educational background and clinical experience, France has developed a particular interest in neurological and pediatric physiotherapy. She is committed to ongoing professional development, integrating evidence-based practices into her care. Fluent in both English and French, France emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with her patients to achieve their movement and functional goals through education, practical strategies, and compassionate support.

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

Sports Injury

• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): Sharp or burning pain on the outer side of the knee that often starts gradually and worsens with continued activity, sometimes radiating up the thigh or down the leg.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue (periosteum) around the tibia, which requires rest, activity modification, and specific physiotherapy interventions for recovery.
• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): An overuse injury where the bone is unable to withstand repetitive mechanical loading, requiring a period of offloading and gradual rehabilitation guided by a physiotherapist for safe return to activity.
• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Stretching or tearing of ligaments (the strong, fibrous bands that connect bones to each other at joints) due to sudden force, twisting, overstretching, or impact. Common in sports involving jumping, cutting, pivoting, or collisions. Examples include ACL/MCL tears in the knee or common ankle sprains.

Vestibular Balance

• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): A common cause of chronic dizziness that can be helped with specific physiotherapy strategies aimed at desensitizing the brain to provocative stimuli and normalizing reliance on sensory inputs.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Comprehensive balance assessment by a Physiotherapist to identify underlying causes of unsteadiness, followed by targeted exercise programs and strategies to help you stay steady on your feet.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): A common cause of vertigo that is highly treatable with specific physiotherapy maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver or Semont maneuver, designed to reposition the displaced inner ear crystals.
• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Individualized exercise programs including gaze stabilization exercises (e.g., VORx1, VORx2), habituation exercises (for motion sensitivity), and balance retraining to improve function when the vestibular system is impaired.

Developmental

• Coordination Challenges / Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) - Supportive Physiotherapy: Marked difficulties with motor coordination that significantly interfere with a child's ability to perform daily living activities (e.g., dressing, using cutlery), achieve academically (e.g., handwriting), or participate in play and sports. These difficulties are not explained by intellectual disability or other primary neurological or sensory conditions.

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

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Customized exercise-based programs (e.g., gaze stabilization, habituation, balance retraining exercises) prescribed by a trained Vestibular Physiotherapist to reduce vestibular symptoms, improve functional balance, decrease fall risk, and enhance confidence in movement.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Comprehensive assessment of your fall risk factors with individualized interventions, including balance exercises, strength training, gait re-training, and home safety advice to help you prevent falls.

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

• If feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems is preventing you from fully enjoying playing a full game of recreational hockey with your friends, France offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from pain or weakness that's stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies and achieved restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks under the skilled care of France. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache with a new lease on life.
• Many individuals seek help from France, their physiotherapist, when swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand), empowering them to joyfully return to activities like tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence.

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

France practices at CHU DE QUÉBEC PAVILLON CHUL, a prominent public healthcare facility situated in the central Québec neighborhood of Québec. The clinic's location offers convenient access for patients residing in the area, with proximity to various community services and pharmacies. The facility is easily reachable via local public transit routes, making it accessible for patients from different parts of the city. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

In Québec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, it is important to note that some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients are advised to verify their insurance requirements prior to their first appointment to ensure coverage.

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

Generally, physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ in Québec. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or utilize private insurance. Some care received directly within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if specific criteria are met. It is recommended to check with RAMQ and private insurers regarding coverage options for physiotherapy services.

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

A Physiothérapeute has completed a master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures with additional qualifications if applicable. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) focused on technical application, assisting physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, guiding exercises, and reporting progress to the supervising professional.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your initial appointment, the Physiothérapeute will conduct a detailed assessment that includes a discussion about your symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. A physical examination will follow to identify the cause of your condition and evaluate your capabilities. The therapist will then explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a tailored plan. You may receive initial exercises, advice, or hands-on treatments to begin your recovery.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment sessions usually last between 45 to 60 minutes to allow for a comprehensive evaluation. Follow-up treatments typically range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your needs and the treatment plan established by your Physiothérapeute.

Is there parking available at or near CHU DE QUÉBEC PAVILLON CHUL?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside the building. Look for designated patient spots. Alternatively, metered street parking is available on nearby streets, and a paid public parkade is located within walking distance. Please check local signage for parking restrictions and time limits.

CHU DE QUÉBEC PAVILLON CHUL
2705, Boulevard Laurier
Québec, QC G1V 4G2

Phone: (418) 525-4444

France Simard 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.