Isabelle Marceau – Physiotherapy Technologist | Chicoutimi, QC

Isabelle Marceau is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) practicing at CIUSSS Installation de Chicoutimi in Chicoutimi, QC. With a focus on performance and athletic-oriented care, Isabelle is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered physiotherapy services that align with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach emphasizes helping active individuals and athletes recover from injuries, optimize performance, and prevent future issues through targeted interventions and personalized care plans.

Isabelle'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. She specializes in working with adult patients, including athletes and active adults, aiming to restore strength, mobility, and performance. Whether managing sports injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, or chronic conditions impacting athletic performance, Isabelle tailors her interventions to meet each patient's unique goals and needs.

With a solid educational background and clinical experience, Isabelle completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has developed a particular interest in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. She is committed to ongoing professional development and staying current with evidence-based practices in physiotherapy. Isabelle's philosophy centers on a strong commitment to evidence-based practice, continuous learning, and promoting preventative care to support long-term wellness within the Chicoutimi community. She is fluent in French.

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

Common Msk

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Neck problems that interfere with your sleep quality, ability to work comfortably (especially at a desk), or perform everyday tasks without pain.

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

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Utilizing electrophysical agents as an adjunct to your physiotherapy treatments to aid recovery, improve muscle function, manage pain, or reduce swelling, tailored to your specific condition.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.

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 CIUSSS Installation de Chicoutimi, 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:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of post-operative stiffness and weakness that's slowing down my recovery? Isabelle works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of achieving their specific mobility goals, whether big or small. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain.
• Patients struggling with pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard can find dedicated and compassionate support from Isabelle. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving experiencing significant pain relief, allowing for a more comfortable daily life, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as playing in your competitive volleyball league again.
• Rediscover your ability to engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands without the constant burden of that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder. Isabelle focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Isabelle practices at the CIUSSS Installation de Chicoutimi, situated centrally in the Chicoutimi neighborhood. The clinic is housed within a public healthcare facility, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. The location is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, facilitating seamless integration with your overall health and wellness routine. Accessible via multiple local public transit routes, the clinic ensures that patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Isabelle or your QC healthcare provider directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of physiotherapy sessions required varies greatly from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of your condition, how long you've had the issue (acute vs. chronic), your individual treatment goals, your body's unique response to therapy, and how consistently you are able to follow your prescribed home exercise program and self-management advice. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will discuss a proposed treatment frequency and estimated duration after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress with you.

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

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

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered depending on your eligibility. It is recommended to verify your coverage details with RAMQ and consult your private insurer for potential reimbursement options.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is an essential component of physiotherapy treatment. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will prescribe exercises tailored to your condition and goals, helping you manage symptoms, accelerate recovery, and maintain progress between sessions. Active participation in your home program is vital for achieving optimal results.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master’s degree in university, allowing for autonomous assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. A Physiotherapy Technologist holds a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They work under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, assisting with implementing treatment plans, applying modalities, and monitoring progress.

CIUSSS Installation de Chicoutimi
305, Rue Saint-Vallier
Chicoutimi, QC G7H 5H6

Phone: (418) 549-4003

Isabelle Marceau 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.