Joelle Leclerc is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS ABITIBI-TÉMISCAMINGUE in Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Joelle is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach focuses on 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. Joelle primarily serves adult and senior populations, addressing their unique physiotherapy needs with professionalism and compassion.
Joelle's educational background includes completing a college diploma in physiotherapy technology. With clinical experience and ongoing professional development, she has developed specialized skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Her commitment to evidence-based practices ensures that patients receive effective and current physiotherapy interventions tailored to their specific conditions. Her expertise allows her to adapt treatments dynamically, always prioritizing patient safety and optimal outcomes.
Joelle's practice philosophy revolves around empowering patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. She emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Joelle is fluent in French, ensuring effective communication with her diverse patient base and providing care in their preferred language.
Joelle Leclerc provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Common Msk
- Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.
- Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.
- Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Symptoms in your hand or wrist that impact your ability to perform your job, hobbies, or essential self-care tasks, addressed by specialized hand physiotherapy.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Joelle can assess your needs.
- 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.
- 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): A common physiotherapy treatment for acute injuries, designed to help numb pain, decrease bleeding into the tissues, and minimize secondary hypoxic injury.
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
- Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
- Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Joelle. 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 ABITIBI-TÉMISCAMINGUE, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Joelle frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Discover how physiotherapy with Joelle can help you move beyond an awkward gait or limping when I walk. The focus is on greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as handling your job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending.
- It's truly rewarding for Joelle to witness patients conquer knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run and experience improved performance in work-related physical demands. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in getting back to golfing 18 holes without your back acting up again.
- Rediscover your ability to shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating your back without the constant burden of trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury. Joelle focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Joelle, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Joelle practices at CISSS ABITIBI-TÉMISCAMINGUE, situated within a central clinic in the Rouyn-Noranda neighborhood of Rouyn-Noranda. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making access straightforward for patients. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring ease of reach for individuals relying on public transportation. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.
- 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).
- Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?
- Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapy Technologist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.
- What are CISSS ABITIBI-TÉMISCAMINGUE's operating hours?
- Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office at (819) 762-1234 or check our website/online booking portal for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.
- Is physiotherapy covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- In Quebec, physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if it meets specific criteria. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for coverage details.
- What types of conditions do Physiotherapy Technologists at CISSS ABITIBI-TÉMISCAMINGUE treat?
- Joelle 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 like IT Band Syndrome, nerve pain, and pelvic health concerns. Treatments often involve therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application such as therapeutic ultrasound, and electrotherapy like NMES or FES. The goal is to help patients regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall function.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapy Technologist in QC?
- In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services 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 recommended to check your insurance policy before your appointment.
- What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?
- Some temporary soreness is normal, similar to after a workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if discomfort persists beyond a day or two, please contact us. Your Physiotherapy Technologist would want to know so they can adjust your treatment plan accordingly. Open communication is essential for a safe and effective recovery.
CISSS ABITIBI-TÉMISCAMINGUE
4, Rue 9e
Rouyn-Noranda, QC J9X 2B2
Phone: (819) 764-5131
Joelle Leclerc 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.