Karen Lessard – Physiotherapy Technologist | L’Assomption, QC

Karen Lessard is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CENTRE DE JOUR L'ESCALE in L'Assomption, QC, Karen 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 a physiotherapist or physician, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Karen's focus is especially attentive to the needs of senior patients, ensuring they receive compassionate and effective physiotherapy care tailored to their unique mobility and health challenges.

With a solid educational background and clinical experience, Karen Lessard completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has continually developed her skills through ongoing professional development. She has a particular interest in areas such as therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, which allows her to deliver evidence-based, personalized care. Her approach is rooted in fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered and motivated to achieve their health and mobility goals.

Karen believes in empowering her patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies that promote lasting results. She adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with each individual to develop tailored treatment plans that align with their lifestyles and aspirations. Fluent in French, Karen communicates effectively with her diverse patient population, ensuring understanding and comfort throughout their physiotherapy journey.

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

Common Msk

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Disorders affecting hand and wrist function, making daily tasks such as gripping objects, typing, writing, or fine motor activities difficult and painful.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Knee problems that limit your ability to stay active, perform daily tasks, or enjoy your hobbies, for which physiotherapy offers effective solutions.

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

• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• 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.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
• 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: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.

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 CENTRE DE JOUR L'ESCALE, 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:

• Struggling with the frustration of facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy)? Karen develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities. This is key to helping you get back to doing going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Karen believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If post-operative stiffness and weakness that’s slowing down my recovery is hindering your ability to managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain, a personalized plan focusing on experiencing significant pain relief, allowing for a more comfortable daily life can make all the difference.
• Living with numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs doesn't have to be your norm. Karen applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards the ability to sit for longer periods (e.g., at a desk, in a car) without significant discomfort, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around your neighborhood for fresh air.

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

Karen practices at the CENTRE DE JOUR L'ESCALE, situated in a convenient, centrally located clinic in the L'Assomption neighborhood of L'Assomption, QC. This public healthcare facility is ideally positioned near various community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring that patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 rely on private insurance plans. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC (if meeting their criteria) might be covered. It’s important to verify your specific eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plan for coverage options.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., RAMQ card, if applicable), any relevant medical documents such as a doctor’s referral note, recent imaging reports, and a list of current medications. If you plan to use private insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapy Technologists at CENTRE DE JOUR L'ESCALE treat?

Our Physiotherapy Technologists treat 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 herniated discs or sciatica, and nerve pain. They also have expertise in areas like therapeutic exercise instruction and modality application, including pelvic health. Treatments often involve Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription, Stretching & Flexibility Programs, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Physiotherapy Technologist in QC?

No, in Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a referral, which is known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It’s advisable to check your insurance policy requirements before your first appointment.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, almost always, Karen will provide you with a tailored home exercise program. These exercises are carefully selected to target your specific issues and support your progress between appointments, helping you achieve your goals more effectively.

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 perform assessments, establish diagnoses, and create treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress without diagnosing or independently planning treatments. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

CENTRE DE JOUR L'ESCALE
410, Boulevard de l'Ange-Gardien
L'Assomption, QC J5W 1S7

Phone: (450) 589-2101

Karen Lessard 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.