Joelle Rousseau – Physiotherapy Technologist | Chicoutimi, QC

Joelle Rousseau is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSSS SAGUENAY-LAC-ST-JEAN in Chicoutimi, QC, Joelle 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. Joelle’s approach emphasizes personalized care tailored to each patient's unique needs, especially focusing on improving mobility and independence for senior patients.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy technology, Joelle has developed skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. She continuously updates her knowledge through professional development to ensure evidence-based practices in her daily work. Her experience has fostered a compassionate and attentive approach, making her a trusted healthcare provider for individuals seeking rehabilitative support in the Chicoutimi community.

Joelle is passionate about promoting preventative care and long-term wellness. She believes in actively involving her patients in their treatment planning and goal setting, empowering them to take charge of their health. Committed to ongoing learning and excellence in her practice, Joelle speaks fluent French, ensuring clear communication with her diverse patient base.

Joelle Rousseau 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.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort, limited range of motion, and persistent tension in the cervical spine (neck), often related to posture, an injury, stress, or sleeping position.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.

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

• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Developing control, strength, and endurance in your core musculature for improved functional performance, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.

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 CIUSSS SAGUENAY-LAC-ST-JEAN, 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:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis)? Joelle works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder pain.
• The path to recovery from needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity and achieving feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health for playing your musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods often starts with expert guidance. Joelle, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Tired of feeling like my joints are just 'wearing out' and getting harder to move interfering with being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house? Joelle uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Joelle practices at CIUSSS SAGUENAY-LAC-ST-JEAN, situated in a central clinic within the Chicoutimi neighborhood of Chicoutimi. This public sector facility provides essential home support services and is conveniently located near local community resources, including pharmacies and social services. It is easily accessible via multiple public transit routes, making it straightforward for patients to attend appointments. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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, as part of the province's direct access policy. However, while a referral is not legally required to receive treatment, some private or extended health insurance plans may mandate one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

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. Certain care received within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private outpatient physiotherapy typically is not. Patients are encouraged to review their private insurance plans for coverage details.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial physiotherapy sessions usually last around an hour, allowing for comprehensive assessment and goal setting. Follow-up appointments generally range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on individual needs. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will advise on the appropriate duration based on your specific treatment plan.

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

A Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree and can independently assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises but does not diagnose or create treatment plans independently. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy helps you improve movement, reduce pain, and restore function through tailored exercises, manual therapy, and education. It is effective for managing injuries, chronic conditions, and post-surgical recovery, enabling you to live more actively and comfortably.

Does CIUSSS SAGUENAY-LAC-ST-JEAN offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, our clinic offers direct billing for most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, and Blue Cross. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to facilitate the process. If direct billing is not available, we provide detailed receipts that you can submit for reimbursement.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on your condition and recovery progress. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will provide an estimated treatment plan after your initial assessment and adjust it as needed throughout your care.

CIUSSS SAGUENAY-LAC-ST-JEAN
222, Rue Saint-Éphrem
Chicoutimi, QC G7G 2W5

Phone: (418) 543-2221

Joelle Rousseau 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.