Joëlle Richer – Physiotherapist | Saint-Jérôme, QC

Joëlle Richer is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Kinatex Saint-Jérôme in Saint-Jérôme, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Joëlle's approach emphasizes thorough assessment, individualized treatment planning, and evidence-based interventions to optimize recovery and functional outcomes for her patients.

Joëlle's scope of practice encompasses addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. She also specializes in assisting individuals recovering from neurological events or conditions, such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Her goal is to help patients of all ages—ranging from infants and young children to adults and seniors—regain mobility, reduce symptoms, and improve their quality of life through tailored physiotherapy programs.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Joëlle has developed expertise in Orthopedic, Musculoskeletal, and Neurological Physiotherapy. Her practice philosophy centers on evidence-based practice, continuous learning, and a collaborative approach that actively involves patients in their recovery process. She is fluent in both French and English, facilitating clear communication and personalized care for a diverse patient population.

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

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Helping you live well with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies through targeted physiotherapy interventions designed to manage symptoms, preserve function, and promote overall well-being.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.

Peripheral Nerve

• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Physiotherapy focuses on improving balance, strength, sensation (where possible), reducing fall risk, managing pain, and providing education on foot care (especially for diabetic neuropathy) and adaptive strategies.
• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Alleviating symptoms and improving function for individuals with entrapped nerves through conservative physiotherapy management, helping to avoid more invasive interventions.

Common Msk

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Common back problems that can impact your posture, ability to perform daily activities, and overall mobility, addressed with targeted physiotherapy.
• 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.

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

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Receiving personalized physiotherapy care online through secure and interactive video sessions with your qualified Physiotherapist, including real-time exercise correction and tailored advice.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Providing professional physiotherapy assessment, treatment, education, and exercise prescription directly in the comfort and convenience of your home environment, especially for those who have difficulty attending an outpatient clinic due to mobility issues, severe pain, or other constraints.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Joëlle. 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 Kinatex Saint-Jérôme, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Joëlle frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Tired of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older interfering with walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness? Joëlle uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort and regain your freedom of movement.
• Living with needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity doesn't have to be your norm. Joëlle applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of participating in water aerobics or other pool-based exercises.
• Joëlle believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort is hindering your ability to returning to a specific physical hobby you had to give up due to pain, a personalized plan focusing on being able to climb stairs with ease and confidence once again can make all the difference.

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

Joëlle practices at Kinatex Saint-Jérôme, situated in the Downtown Saint-Jérôme, within the Saint-Antoine Sector neighborhood. This private clinic facility is conveniently located near Cégep de Saint-Jérôme and is easily accessible via exo (Secteur Laurentides - Bus). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy refers to specialized hands-on techniques used by a Physiothérapeute to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This can include joint mobilization (gentle, rhythmic gliding movements), joint manipulation (skilled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, where appropriate and within the therapist's scope and with your consent), various soft tissue mobilization techniques (like massage, myofascial release, trigger point release), and neural mobilization (gentle techniques to improve nerve movement). The primary goals are to reduce pain, improve range of motion, restore optimal joint mechanics, reduce muscle tension, and enhance tissue repair and function.

What is the difference between a Physiotherapist (Physiothérapeute) and a Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) in Quebec?

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master’s level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can also perform certain advanced procedures if they have the required additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They play a crucial role in delivering care by implementing treatment plans designed by a physiotherapist or physician, assisting patients with their exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising professional.

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

In Quebec, most physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are not covered directly by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. However, care received through public hospitals or CLSC may be covered if specific criteria are met. It's important to verify your coverage with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for reimbursement options.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access physiotherapy services through direct access, meaning no referral from a physician is required to see a Physiothérapeute. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor’s referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the requirements of your insurance provider prior to your first appointment.

How can I book an appointment at Kinatex Saint-Jérôme?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (450) 431-6363 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

Kinatex Saint-Jérôme
256, Rue de Montigny
Saint-Jérôme, QC J7Z 5P9

Phone: (450) 431-6363

Joëlle Richer 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.