Heïdi Labrie – Physiotherapy Technologist | Joliette, QC

Heïdi Labrie is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at Clinique de physiothérapie Joliette in Joliette, QC, Heïdi is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Heïdi's role involves assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by a physiotherapist or physician, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. His focus is on adult patients, helping them regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve their overall well-being through evidence-based physiotherapy practices.

Heïdi Labrie completed his diploma in Physiotherapy Technology, and with valuable clinical experience, he continually strives to advance his skills. He is particularly interested in therapeutic exercise instruction, the application of physiotherapy modalities, and patient monitoring to ensure safe and effective treatment. His ongoing professional development ensures that he remains up-to-date with the latest techniques and best practices in physiotherapy, providing his patients with care that is both current and effective.

Heïdi's practice philosophy centers on empowering his patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. He emphasizes the importance of preventative care and promoting long-term wellness for the Joliette community through proactive physiotherapy interventions. Heïdi is fluent in French, which allows him to communicate effectively with his diverse patient base, ensuring that each individual receives personalized and comprehensible care.

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

Common Msk

• Muscle Strains and Tears: Common injuries in active individuals, athletes, or resulting from accidents, leading to localized pain, swelling, bruising, and weakness in the affected muscle (e.g., hamstring, calf, quadriceps, groin, rotator cuff).
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Aching, burning, sharp pain, or a 'pins and needles' sensation in the wrist, thumb, or hand region, sometimes waking you at night.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Aching, sharp pain, a feeling of the knee 'giving way', or difficulty fully bending or straightening your knee.

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

• 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.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: A non-invasive light therapy used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, promote faster healing, reduce pain, and modulate inflammation without generating heat.
• 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.
• 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.

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

• Are you finding that shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult stops you from enjoying spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain? Heïdi is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Heïdi's clinic, common concerns like trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing.
• Tired of pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard interfering with sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort? Heïdi uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Heïdi practices at Clinique de physiothérapie Joliette, situated in a modern clinic located in the central Joliette neighborhood of Joliette, QC. The clinic is conveniently positioned near various community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to combine their physiotherapy appointments with other errands or healthcare needs. Accessibility is a priority at this private facility, which is easily reachable via local public transit routes. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapy Technologist.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiotherapy Technologist uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.

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 your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If our clinic offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to *see* a Physiotherapy Technologist, some private or extended health insurance plans *do* require one for reimbursement. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your appointment to ensure coverage.

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 and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, and create treatment plans. They are autonomous healthcare professionals. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma and works under the supervision or treatment plan of a physiotherapist or physician. They apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide exercises, and monitor progress but do not diagnose or independently develop treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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 through private insurance. Some public coverage may be available if receiving care within a hospital or CLSC meeting their criteria, but private clinic services are usually not reimbursed. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and to check your private insurance plans, as many offer substantial coverage for physiotherapy in private clinics.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is to reduce pain and improve function. Some treatments or assessments might cause mild, temporary discomfort, especially if tissues are inflamed or stiff. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage feedback. If you experience significant pain during treatment, inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

Clinique de physiothérapie Joliette
586, Rue Almira-S.-Choinière, # 200
Joliette, QC J6E 0K5

Phone: (450) 759-3420

Heïdi Labrie 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.