Frédérique Chavanel-Deschênes – Physiotherapy Technologist | Québec, QC

Frédérique Chavanel-Deschênes is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at Axo Physio Val-Bélair in Québec, QC, Frédérique is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. With a compassionate approach, she strives to support each individual’s journey towards improved mobility, pain relief, and overall well-being. Frédérique’s role involves assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement.

Frédérique's educational background includes completing her college diploma in physiotherapy technology, complemented by clinical experience that has deepened her skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development and stays current with evidence-based physiotherapy practices to ensure her patients receive the most effective care. Her commitment to excellence and community health is evident in her attentive, personalized approach to each patient's needs.

Her practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Frédérique promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Québec community through proactive physiotherapy. She believes in empowering her patients by providing clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies to foster lasting results. Frédérique is fluent in French and English, enabling her to communicate effectively with a diverse range of patients and foster a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Frédérique Chavanel-Deschênes provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Common Msk

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.

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

• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• 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.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• 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: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.

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

• Many individuals seek help from Frédérique, their physiotherapist, when frequent headaches that seem to start from tension in my neck or shoulders starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Frédérique's clinic, common concerns like that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips.
• At Frédérique's physiotherapy practice, individuals with difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain are guided towards enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions). The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun.

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

Frédérique practices at Axo Physio Val-Bélair, situated in a modern clinic located in the central Québec neighborhood of Québec. The facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is well-connected by public transit routes, ensuring easy reach for those utilizing transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

It's recommended to wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and provides easy access for your physiotherapist to examine the body part being assessed or treated. For instance, if you have a knee problem, please wear or bring shorts. For shoulder issues, a sleeveless top or a top with loose armholes is often helpful. The goal is to make the assessment and treatment as effective as possible.

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).

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

Patients in Québec can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a doctor's referral is not legally required to *see* a Physiotherapy Technologist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private clinic physiotherapy is usually not. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if the clinic can bill your insurer directly. If direct billing is available and your plan permits, we can often handle the billing process, and you would be responsible only for any remaining co-payment at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment.

Axo Physio Val-Bélair
1930, Rue de l'Interlude, suite 302
Québec, QC G3K 0R6

Phone: (418) 843-5555

Frédérique Chavanel-Deschênes 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.