Isabelle Normand – Physiotherapist | Baie-Comeau, QC

Isabelle Normand is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at CISSS de la Côte-Nord in Baie-Comeau, QC, Isabelle is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her focus is on providing specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions such as torticollis, orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and to promote optimal motor function and participation. Isabelle’s compassionate approach ensures that every young patient receives tailored interventions that support their growth, development, and confidence in movement, fostering a positive and encouraging environment for children and their families.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy, Isabelle completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has since accumulated valuable clinical experience. She is deeply committed to ongoing professional development and stays current with the latest evidence-based practices in pediatric physiotherapy. Her particular interest lies in helping children of all ages, from infants to 17 years old, achieve their developmental milestones and overcome challenges through innovative, family-centered care. Isabelle believes in empowering caregivers with education and practical strategies to support their child's progress at home and in everyday life.

Her practice philosophy emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with children and their families to set realistic, meaningful goals. Isabelle aims to foster independence and confidence in her patients by providing clear education about their conditions and practical self-management techniques. She is fluent in English and French, ensuring she can effectively communicate and connect with diverse families in the community, making her a trusted and approachable provider dedicated to the well-being of her young patients.

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

Common Msk

• 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.
• 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.

Pediatric

• Developmental Delays (Gross Motor Skills): Physiotherapy support and intervention for infants and children with delayed physical development to help them achieve their motor potential through play-based activities and targeted exercises.
• Toe Walking (Idiopathic / Habitual): Addressing habitual toe walking in children when other neurological or orthopedic causes have been ruled out by a medical professional.
• Congenital Muscular Torticollis / Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome): Physiotherapy treatment for infant neck tightness (torticollis) and associated flat head syndrome, involving gentle stretching exercises, specific handling and positioning advice for parents/caregivers, and strategies to encourage symmetrical movement.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

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

• 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.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Tailored exercises, hands-on techniques, and functional strategies to manage symptoms (e.g., spasticity, weakness, ataxia) and optimize function in various neurological conditions, promoting participation in daily life.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Helping you get back in the game quickly and safely with targeted sports physiotherapy, focusing on restoring strength, agility, and confidence.

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 CISSS de la Côte-Nord, 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:

• When numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing working at your desk all day without developing back or neck stiffness, physiotherapy with Isabelle can help you work towards greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Don't let experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy dictate what you can and cannot do. Isabelle offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery, helping you reclaim enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again and enjoy a more functional life.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Isabelle's clinic, common concerns like awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event.

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

Isabelle practices at the CISSS de la Côte-Nord, situated in a central clinic in the Baie-Comeau neighborhood of Baie-Comeau. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near many community services and pharmacies, making it easy for families and individuals to access. The clinic is accessible via local public transit routes, ensuring that transportation options are available for most patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 rely on private insurance. Some care within public hospitals or CLSCs might be covered if specific criteria are met. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer substantial coverage for physiotherapy in private clinics.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiothérapeute, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help reduce the risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

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

It is common to experience some temporary soreness or mild increase in symptoms after physiotherapy, especially when starting new exercises or treatments. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant increase in pain, new neurological symptoms like numbness or weakness, or if soreness persists longer than expected, contact your physiotherapist or clinic promptly. They can assess your condition and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute through direct access without a referral. While a referral is not legally required to be seen, some private insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is recommended to check your individual insurance policy prior to your appointment.

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 them to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma focused on technical treatment delivery, assisting physiotherapists and physicians by implementing treatment plans, supporting exercises, and reporting progress.

CISSS de la Côte-Nord
835, Boulevard Jolliet
Baie-Comeau, QC G5C 1P5

Phone: (418) 589-2038

Isabelle Normand 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.