Isabelle Viau – Physiotherapist | Gatineau, QC

Isabelle Viau is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CISSS de l'Outaouais (Hôpital de Gatineau) in Gatineau, QC, Isabelle is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She specializes in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and balance-related conditions, ensuring that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs. Her approach emphasizes compassionate listening, thorough assessment, and evidence-based interventions to promote recovery and long-term wellness.

Isabelle's role extends beyond treatment; she actively educates her patients about their conditions and self-management strategies, empowering them to participate actively in their rehabilitation journey. She offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues, aiming to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk. Her focus includes helping adults and seniors regain their independence and improve their quality of life through functional restoration and injury prevention.

With a strong foundation in physiotherapy, Isabelle completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated valuable clinical experience. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development, staying current with the latest research and techniques. Her interests include Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. Isabelle’s practice philosophy is rooted in a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. She is fluent in English and French, ensuring clear communication and support for her diverse patient community.

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

Neurological

• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Movement therapy designed by a Neuro Physiotherapist to address common Parkinson's symptoms like bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity (stiffness), postural instability (balance problems), freezing of gait, and tremors.
• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Supportive physiotherapy care designed to enhance quality of life, manage the physical challenges of various muscle diseases, and promote independence for as long as possible.
• Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: Rehabilitation strategies tailored to the unique and often variable presentation of FND, working collaboratively with the patient to achieve their functional goals.

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): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.

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

• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Specialized assessment and treatment techniques, such as canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - BPPV), to address symptoms of dizziness, vertigo (spinning sensations), and imbalance caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction.
• Rehabilitation for Age-Related Deconditioning & Loss of Autonomy: Helping seniors regain their physical capacity, reduce dependency, and improve their ability to manage at home safely and effectively.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Comprehensive care for concussion recovery, including initial assessment of symptoms (headache, dizziness, etc.), management of associated neck pain or dysfunction, vestibular and oculomotor (eye movement) rehabilitation, and guided, gradual return-to-learn, work, and sport protocols.
• Geriatric Physiotherapy & Seniors' Health: Addressing common concerns in seniors such as difficulty walking, fear of falling, joint pain and stiffness, and deconditioning, to improve their overall quality of life and ability to participate in meaningful activities.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Comprehensive assessment of your fall risk factors with individualized interventions, including balance exercises, strength training, gait re-training, and home safety advice to help you prevent falls.

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 l'Outaouais (Hôpital de Gatineau), 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:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Isabelle can help you move beyond an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak. The focus is on a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain.
• It's truly rewarding for Isabelle to witness patients conquer widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia and experience greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in competing effectively in your curling league games again.
• Struggling with the frustration of recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim)? Isabelle develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment. This is key to helping you get back to doing simply being able to get through a workday without constant pain interruptions with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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 l'Outaouais (Hôpital de Gatineau), situated in the Gatineau Sector East (Pointe-Gatineau, Le Baron) neighborhood of Gatineau. This Home support (public sector) facility is conveniently located near Hôpital de Gatineau and is accessible via Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), including the Rapibus BRT. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions 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, physiotherapy coverage varies. The Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) typically does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. However, some services may be covered if received in public hospitals or CLSCs, depending on eligibility. It's important to verify your coverage directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for additional benefits.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be an ordeal of pain. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation as you work to regain movement or strength, especially in the initial stages of treatment for an acute injury or chronic stiffness, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiothérapeute will guide you through each step, modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance, and ensure that the overall experience is positive. The ultimate aim is to make you feel better, not worse.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiothérapeute will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify with your insurance provider before your appointment to ensure coverage.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The first physiotherapy session primarily involves a detailed assessment. Expect to discuss your medical history, current issues, and treatment goals. Your Physiothérapeute will perform physical tests to evaluate movement, strength, and areas of concern. This initial visit aims to develop a personalized treatment plan and may include immediate interventions such as education, exercises, or gentle manual therapy to initiate your recovery journey.

CISSS de l'Outaouais (Hôpital de Gatineau)
909, boul. de la Vérandrye Ouest
Gatineau, QC J8P 7H2

Phone: (819) 966-6530

Isabelle Viau 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.