Julie N. LaRocque is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Sault Area Hospital in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, Julie LaRocque is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Julie LaRocque's focus is providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Julie LaRocque serves adults.
Julie N. LaRocque completed their degree in Physiotherapy from University of Ottawa (Graduating Class of 2000). With extensive clinical experience, Julie LaRocque is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Julie LaRocque has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.
Julie LaRocque employs a collaborative approach, working with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Julie LaRocque has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care, and promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Sault Ste. Marie community through proactive physiotherapy. Julie LaRocque offers consultations in English and French.
Julie N. LaRocque provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Sports Injury
- IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): A common cause of lateral knee pain in athletes, often linked to training errors, muscle imbalances (e.g., weak hip abductors), or poor biomechanics, which physiotherapy aims to address.
- Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Damage to ligaments that can range from mild (Grade 1 - overstretched) to moderate (Grade 2 - partial tear) to severe (Grade 3 - complete tear), impacting joint integrity and function.
- Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Dull or aching pain in the front or inner part of the shin that can become sharp with activity, often felt during or after exercise.
Common Musculoskeletal
- 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.
- 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.
- 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: 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.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Julie LaRocque can assess your needs.
- Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
- Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Identifying inefficient or compensatory movement patterns that could be contributing to your pain or hindering your physical performance.
- Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
- Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
- Postural Assessment and Correction: Education on optimal body mechanics and corrective strategies to improve your posture during daily activities, work, and recreation.
Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Julie LaRocque, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.
All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
At Sault Area Hospital, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Julie LaRocque frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- At Julie LaRocque's physiotherapy practice, individuals with needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity are guided towards running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating their back.
- Don't let experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy dictate what you can and cannot do. Julie LaRocque offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at feeling more energetic and less weighed down by physical discomfort, helping you reclaim reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches and enjoy a more functional life.
- Julie LaRocque believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees is hindering your ability to walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness, a personalized plan focusing on a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery can make all the difference.
- For those whose aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk has made being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house seem like a distant memory, Julie LaRocque's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Julie LaRocque, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Julie LaRocque practices at Sault Area Hospital, located in the West End, Steelton neighborhood of Sault Ste. Marie. The clinic enjoys convenient proximity to Highway 17 and is easily accessible via Sault Ste. Marie Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?
- In Ontario, you typically do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist. This is known as "direct access." However, while a referral isn't legally required to see a physiotherapist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider to understand their specific requirements before your first appointment.
- Will I be given exercises to do at home?
- Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.
- How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?
- You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiotherapist will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.
- What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?
- Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiotherapist uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.
- What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?
- The first physiotherapy session is primarily an in-depth assessment. Expect to spend time talking with your Physiotherapist about your specific issue, its history, and your overall health background. Your therapist will then perform various physical tests to assess your movement, strength, and any areas of concern. The main goal of this first visit is to understand your condition fully so that a tailored and effective treatment plan can be developed collaboratively with you. You might also receive your first set of home exercises or some initial hands-on care to start the healing process.
- What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
- Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.
- Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?
- To make your first appointment as smooth and productive as possible, please consider bringing: your health card, any doctor's referral letter (if applicable), results or reports of any imaging tests (X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs) related to your current condition, a list of any medications you are currently taking, and your extended health benefits information (insurance card/policy number) for direct billing if available at our clinic. Wearing comfortable clothes is also a good idea.
- Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Publicly funded physiotherapy is available through specific programs, such as post-hospitalization care for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams, but eligibility criteria are strict and there may be waitlists. It's essential to check your private or extended health insurance plan, as many offer significant coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.
Sault Area Hospital
750 Great Northern Road
Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6B 0A8
Phone: (705) 759-3434
Julie N. LaRocque is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
Registration Number: XXX08
Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=57815acf-8c02-e811-813c-480fcff44541
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.