Isabelle Bouchard – Physiotherapist | Baie-Comeau, QC

Isabelle Bouchard is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Clinique de physiothérapie Baie-Comeau Inc. in Baie-Comeau, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Isabelle's approach focuses on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and functional conditions with compassion and professionalism, ensuring each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs.

Throughout her career, Isabelle has developed expertise in several specialized areas. She offers comprehensive assessment and treatment for conditions such as jaw pain (TMJ/TMD), orofacial pain, headaches (including cervicogenic and tension-type), and other musculoskeletal issues affecting children, adolescents, and adults. Her holistic approach emphasizes not only symptom relief but also long-term wellness through education, self-management strategies, and functional improvements.

Isabelle holds a degree in Physiotherapy and is dedicated to continuous professional development, integrating evidence-based practices into her treatments. She has cultivated skills in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as in TMJ, headache, and orofacial pain management. Her practice philosophy is rooted in collaboration, empowering patients to actively participate in their recovery, and she is fluent in French, ensuring clear and compassionate communication with her community.

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

Common Msk

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Disorders affecting hand and wrist function, making daily tasks such as gripping objects, typing, writing, or fine motor activities difficult and painful.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Aching, sharp, or persistent pain located in the lower back, which may sometimes extend into the buttocks or legs, limiting your comfort.
• 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.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Pain, swelling, clicking, locking, or instability in or around the knee joint from various causes like ligament sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL), meniscal tears (managed conservatively), or patellofemoral (kneecap) pain.

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis focuses on maintaining spinal mobility and flexibility (especially extension), improving posture, strengthening core and back muscles, managing pain, and providing education on self-management and regular exercise.

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Specialized physiotherapy for conditions affecting the intricate structures of the hand and wrist, such as fractures (e.g., Colles', scaphoid), tendon lacerations or ruptures (e.g., flexor/extensor tendon repairs), ligament sprains/tears (e.g., skier's thumb, TFCC injuries), repetitive strain injuries, or arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis). Includes both conservative management and post-operative rehabilitation.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.

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

• Many individuals seek help from Isabelle, their physiotherapist, when recovering my strength and mobility after a knee or hip replacement surgery starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve improved circulation and tissue healing, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• When that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions, physiotherapy with Isabelle can help you work towards increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• It's truly rewarding for Isabelle to witness patients conquer persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady and experience a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back again.

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

Isabelle practices at Clinique de physiothérapie Baie-Comeau Inc., situated in the heart of Baie-Comeau in a convenient central neighborhood. The clinic is easily accessible within the community, located near local services and pharmacies, making it simple for patients to reach their appointments. The facility is well-connected by public transit routes, ensuring accessible transportation options for everyone. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible, and street parking as well as nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. While a referral is not legally required to see a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

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

It’s not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or mild symptom flare-ups after physiotherapy treatments, especially during initial stages or when starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you notice a significant increase in pain, new neurological symptoms like numbness or weakness, or if soreness persists longer than expected, it’s important to contact Clinique de physiothérapie Baie-Comeau Inc. or your Quebec healthcare provider for further advice and possible reassessment.

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

In general, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some coverage may be available if physiotherapy is received in a hospital or CLSC meeting specific criteria. For most outpatient private physiotherapy services, individuals are encouraged to verify their private insurance plans for coverage details.

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

A Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy, allowing them to perform assessments, diagnose, and create treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under supervision, applying treatments and guiding exercises based on a plan established by a physiotherapist or physician. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What are Clinique de physiothérapie Baie-Comeau Inc.'s operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some practitioners offering Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours can vary depending on the practitioner and day. Please call our office at (your contact number) or visit our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

Clinique de physiothérapie Baie-Comeau Inc.
1305, Boulevard Blanche
Baie-Comeau, QC G5C 3J3

Phone: (418) 589-8887

Isabelle Bouchard 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.