Isabel Michou Judith Diane Courchesne – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Isabel Michou Judith Diane Courchesne is a dedicated Physiotherapist (Sports Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at Canadian Forces Health Services in Ottawa, ON, isabel courchesne is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. isabel courchesne specializes in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries. Care is tailored to help athletes of all levels, from recreational to elite, return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries. isabel courchesne serves adults.

Isabel Michou Judith Diane Courchesne completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 2004). With clinical experience, isabel courchesne is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. isabel courchesne has a particular interest or further training in areas such as Sports Physiotherapy.

isabel courchesne demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Ottawa community through proactive physiotherapy; a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. isabel courchesne offers consultations in English, French.

Isabel Michou Judith Diane Courchesne provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal surgery.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): A progressive rehabilitation program after surgery to fix a broken bone, helping you regain full use of your arm or leg and return to your normal activities.

Sports Injury

• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): A bone injury resulting from an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation due to repetitive mechanical loading, often seen in runners or athletes who rapidly increase their training.
• 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.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Pain and tenderness along the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia), often resulting from running, jumping, or other repetitive impact activities, especially with sudden increases in training intensity or volume.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. isabel courchesne can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Sports Performance Enhancement & Injury Prevention: Strategies and training programs to fine-tune your physical capabilities, improve sport-specific skills, and ensure you are well-prepared for the demands of your sport.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by isabel courchesne, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

At Canadian Forces Health Services, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. isabel courchesne frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• At isabel courchesne's physiotherapy practice, individuals with trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury are guided towards improved circulation and tissue healing. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain.
• With isabel courchesne's help, managing recovering my strength and mobility after a knee or hip replacement surgery to achieve being able to climb stairs with ease and confidence once again becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like managing the physical demands of their job without constant pain.
• Patients often come to isabel courchesne feeling defeated by numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving feeling more like their 'old self' before their injury or condition began and resuming painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• The journey to understanding how to prevent future flare-ups and manage their condition long-term when faced with persistent feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older is made smoother and more effective with isabel courchesne's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching their back.

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

isabel courchesne practices at Canadian Forces Health Services, situated in the Federal Government Buildings (Parliamentary Precinct, Tunney's Pasture) neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near University of Ottawa and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

In Ontario, you can typically see a physiotherapist directly without a doctor's referral. This is known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for coverage. It is crucial to check your insurance policy before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapist may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization, for certain demographics) but eligibility is strict, and waitlists may exist. Check your private insurance for coverage, as many plans offer significant benefits for physiotherapy in private clinics.

Does Canadian Forces Health Services offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment and confirm your coverage with your provider beforehand.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapists at Canadian Forces Health Services treat?

Our Physiotherapists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and sports-related conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, back and neck pain, joint problems, sports injuries, and nerve pain. Our treatments often involve manual therapy, soft tissue mobilization, and exercise prescription.

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 Physiotherapist 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.

Is there parking available at or near Canadian Forces Health Services?

Paid parking is available in the parkade adjacent to our building. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity, but please check local signage for restrictions.

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 your plan's specifics. Key things to check include your annual maximum, per-visit limits, co-payments, referral requirements, and direct billing options. We will provide you with an official receipt to submit to your insurer for reimbursement if direct billing is not possible.

Canadian Forces Health Services
101 Colonel By Drive
Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K2

Phone: (613) 945-1582

Isabel Michou Judith Diane Courchesne is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Registration Number: XXX02

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=2271dea5-8e02-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.