Joana Frenette – Physiotherapy Technologist | Trois-Rivières, QC

Joana Frenette is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSSS de la Mauricie-et-Centre-du-Québec in Trois-Rivières, QC, Joana is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her 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. Joana's approach emphasizes personalized care, ensuring each patient receives tailored interventions aimed at restoring mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing overall well-being.

Joana's extensive clinical experience and ongoing professional development enable her to serve a diverse patient population, with a particular focus on senior patients. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and soft tissue conditions. She is dedicated to empowering her patients through education, helping them understand their condition and self-management strategies that foster lasting health improvements. Joana’s compassionate approach and clinical proficiency make her a trusted provider in the Trois-Rivières community.

With a strong commitment to evidence-based practice, Joana continuously updates her skills to incorporate the latest physiotherapy techniques and research. She is fluent in French, facilitating clear communication with her patients and ensuring they are fully informed about their treatment options. Joana's dedication to excellence and patient care makes her an integral part of the healthcare team at CIUSSS de la Mauricie-et-Centre-du-Québec.

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

Common Msk

• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.

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

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: A non-invasive light therapy used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, promote faster healing, reduce pain, and modulate inflammation without generating heat.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• 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.
• 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 Joana. 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 de la Mauricie-et-Centre-du-Québec, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Joana frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of dealing with ongoing pain and stiffness after a car accident, like whiplash? Joana works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand). This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• The path to recovery from difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain and achieving successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery for walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness often starts with expert guidance. Joana, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Living with that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away doesn't have to be your norm. Joana applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of working at your desk all day without developing back or neck stiffness.

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

Joana practices at the CIUSSS de la Mauricie-et-Centre-du-Québec, situated in the Downtown Trois-Rivières neighborhood of Trois-Rivières, QC. This public sector facility is conveniently located near Boréalis Centre and is easily accessible via Société de transport de Trois-Rivières (STTR). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or specific treatments (like deep soft tissue work, joint mobilization, or certain exercises) might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if the tissues being treated are sensitive, inflamed, or very stiff. However, your Physiotherapy Technologist will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

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).

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy coverage varies. A limited amount of physiotherapy services may be covered after hospital discharge or for specific low-income individuals or seniors through certain programs. However, most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics is not directly covered by RAMQ for the general population. Patients are advised to check their private insurance plans for coverage options. It's recommended to verify eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult with your insurance provider for personalized information.

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, known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policies before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapy Technologists at CIUSSS de la Mauricie-et-Centre-du-Québec treat?

Our Physiotherapy Technologists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues like back and neck pain, joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries like ankle sprains, and nerve pain. They also have specialized skills in areas like therapeutic exercise instruction and modality application, including Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation and Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy. Their treatments often involve patient education and modalities aimed at helping you achieve your functional goals.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle within a day or two, please contact us immediately. Your Physiotherapy Technologist would want to know so they can provide guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is essential for a safe and effective recovery.

CIUSSS de la Mauricie-et-Centre-du-Québec
1274, Rue Laviolette
Trois-Rivières, QC G9A 1W4

Phone: (819) 379-5650

Joana Frenette 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.