Karen Laverdure – Physiotherapist | Saint-Sauveur, QC

Karen Laverdure is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Physio Élite - St-Sauveur in Saint-Sauveur, QC, Karen is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs, aiming to restore optimal function, reduce pain, and promote long-term wellness. Karen’s focus extends beyond immediate injury management to include preventive strategies, empowering her patients with the knowledge and tools necessary for sustained health.

Karen's physiotherapy expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal, neurological, and balance conditions. She addresses a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions, including acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain, arthritis, and post-surgical rehabilitation. She also offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues, aiming to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk. Her patient demographic includes older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring comprehensive care across all ages.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Karen has developed skills and a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, along with Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. She is committed to evidence-based practices, integrating the latest research into her treatments to support her patients' recovery and long-term health. Karen's philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and fostering a proactive approach to health, ensuring her patients are well-informed and actively involved in their rehabilitation process. She is fluent in English and French, facilitating clear communication and personalized care for a diverse patient population.

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

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy for concussion recovery, focusing on symptom management, restoring normal function, and preventing long-term complications through evidence-based interventions.

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Supportive physiotherapy to aid your recovery and help you manage symptoms after back or neck surgery, focusing on education, safe movement strategies, and specific exercises.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Guiding your rehabilitation journey after ACL or other ligament surgery, from early post-operative care to advanced sport-specific training and return-to-play testing.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): The crucial rehabilitation phase following total or partial knee replacement surgery, with physiotherapy focusing on restoring range of motion, building strength, improving balance, managing pain and swelling, and enabling functional mobility (e.g., walking, stairs, getting in/out of a car).

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.
• 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.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Supportive physiotherapy for individuals with psoriatic arthritis, focusing on managing joint pain and swelling, maintaining range of motion and strength, improving function, and providing advice on activity modification and joint protection.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.

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

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Geriatric Physiotherapy & Seniors' Health: Helping older adults stay active, mobile, independent, and confident in their physical abilities through compassionate and evidence-based physiotherapy.
• Rehabilitation for Age-Related Deconditioning & Loss of Autonomy: Comprehensive support for improving performance in activities of daily living (e.g., dressing, bathing, transferring, cooking) and rebuilding physical confidence and independence in older adults.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.

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

• Many find that trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip significantly impacts their ability to driving for longer periods without neck or back pain. Karen helps patients target greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Karen's clinic, common concerns like wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter.
• Rediscover your ability to doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain without the constant burden of managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease. Karen focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to implementing practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Karen practices at Physio Élite - St-Sauveur, situated in a modern clinic located in the heart of Saint-Sauveur. The clinic is conveniently positioned in the central neighborhood, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. The facility is close to local community services, pharmacies, and other essential amenities. It is well-connected by public transit routes, ensuring ease of access for those using buses or other transit options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ, and patients typically 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. For most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics, it is recommended to check with private insurance providers or extended health plans for coverage options. Patients should verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult their insurance plans for the extent of coverage.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally see a Physiothérapeute 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 advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm if a referral is necessary for coverage.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, develop treatment plans, and execute a wide range of interventions independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college-level diploma and works under supervision, assisting with prescribed treatments, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress without diagnosing or establishing independent treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, physiotherapy is effective in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. It helps identify risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor posture, or movement patterns. Through targeted exercises, education, and activity modifications, physiotherapy can reduce the likelihood of injury reoccurrence and assist in managing chronic conditions, promoting ongoing health and activity.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy aims to reduce pain and improve function. Some techniques may cause mild, temporary discomfort, especially if tissues are inflamed or stiff. However, your Physiothérapeute will work within your tolerance, communicating clearly and adjusting treatments as needed to ensure your comfort. If you experience significant pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private insurance plans offer coverage for physiotherapy services. It is recommended to contact your insurer before your first appointment to understand your benefits, including coverage limits, co-payments, and whether a referral is required. Our clinic can often bill your insurance directly if your plan allows, or provide receipts for reimbursement. Please bring your insurance information to your first visit to facilitate the process.

Physio Élite - St-Sauveur
26, Avenue Lafleur S
Saint-Sauveur, QC J0R 1R0

Phone: (579) 887-6768 | Website: Www.physioelite.net

Karen Laverdure 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.