About
Joanie Simard is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean in Chicoutimi, QC, Joanie 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. Joanie takes pride in creating a welcoming environment where patients of all ages, especially children and adolescents (5-17 years), feel supported and empowered on their journey to better health.
With a strong foundation in physiotherapy, Joanie completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has gained valuable clinical experience. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development and adheres to evidence-based practices to ensure her patients receive the most effective care. Joanie has developed particular skills and interest in areas such as therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, enabling her to tailor treatments to each individual's unique needs and goals.
Joanie's practice philosophy centers around a patient-centered and collaborative approach. She actively involves her patients in their treatment planning and goal setting, fostering a sense of ownership and motivation. Her focus is on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Chicoutimi community through proactive physiotherapy. Joanie is fluent in French, which allows her to communicate effectively and compassionately with her diverse patient population.
Joanie Simard 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): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
- Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Hip problems that interfere with your mobility, sleep, and daily comfort, which can be effectively managed with physiotherapy interventions.
- Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.
- Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Pain, weakness, or restricted movement in the shoulder joint, often experienced with overhead activities, lifting, reaching behind your back, or sleeping on the affected side.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Joanie 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.
- 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.
- Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.
- General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
- Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
- Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Joanie. 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 CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Joanie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Dealing with the ongoing challenges of my child walking on their toes most of the time? Joanie works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as keeping up with your team during our weekly soccer match.
- The journey to achieving their specific mobility goals, whether big or small when faced with persistent swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment is made smoother and more effective with Joanie's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like being able to carry your baby or toddler without straining your back or arms.
- Discover how physiotherapy with Joanie can help you move beyond needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity. The focus is on being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Joanie, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Joanie practices at CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, situated within a modern clinic in the central Chicoutimi neighborhood of Chicoutimi. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near numerous community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive healthcare options. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring accessible transportation for all visitors. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapy Technologist in QC?
- In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to receive physiotherapy services, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. Patients are advised to check the specific requirements of their insurance policies before their first appointment.
- 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. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is important for patients to verify their eligibility with RAMQ and consult their private insurance plans for coverage details.
- What types of conditions do Physiotherapy Technologists at CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean treat?
- Joanie treats 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, nerve pain, and conditions like traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation. Her treatments often involve therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, manual therapy, and patient education to support recovery and functional goals.
- What are CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean'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 may vary depending on the practitioner and day. Please call the clinic at (contact number) or visit our website for the most current hours and appointment availability.
- 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 level university education, enabling autonomy to assess patients, diagnose, and develop treatment plans. A Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) holds a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments and assists in implementing treatment plans, guiding exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress under supervision.
CIUSS Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean
930, Rue Jacques-Cartier E
Chicoutimi, QC G7H 7K9
Phone: (418) 541-1039
Joanie Simard 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.