Karine Desharnais – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Karine Desharnais is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Kinatex Beauport in Québec, QC. She is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Karine’s approach emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of each patient's unique needs, focusing on restoring optimal function and enhancing athletic performance through tailored physiotherapy interventions.

Specializing in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of a wide range of musculoskeletal and sports injury conditions, Karine works closely with athletes of all levels—from recreational enthusiasts to elite competitors. Her expertise includes managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as addressing chronic pain, arthritis, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Her goal is to help patients return to their active lifestyles safely, improve their strength and flexibility, and prevent future injuries.

Karine’s educational background includes a degree in Physiotherapy, complemented by ongoing professional development in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Sports Physiotherapy. She adopts an evidence-based practice philosophy, continuously updating her skills to provide the most effective treatments. Fluent in French, Karine is dedicated to empowering her patients through clear education and practical strategies for lasting results.

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

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Tailored exercise programs (including range of motion, strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercises), pain relief modalities, and education on joint protection techniques and energy conservation for individuals with RA or similar conditions.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Physiotherapy to address residual joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and functional loss after an acute gout attack has subsided, or to help manage musculoskeletal impairments and tophi-related issues associated with chronic gout, always in conjunction with appropriate medical management for urate control.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Helping to manage the musculoskeletal aspects of psoriatic disease, working in conjunction with medical management to optimize your physical function and comfort.

Post Surgical

• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): A structured physiotherapy program to manage post-operative pain and swelling, improve knee flexibility and strength, and re-educate your gait pattern after a TKA or PKA.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Physiotherapy aimed at restoring movement, strength, and function after surgical repair of broken bones (e.g., Open Reduction Internal Fixation - ORIF, intramedullary nailing), once the fracture site is sufficiently healed and cleared for rehabilitation by your surgeon.

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

• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiothérapeute, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Baseline concussion testing (if offered by the clinic/practitioner) and evidence-based post-injury management to ensure a safe and effective recovery from mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI).
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiothérapeute, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.

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

• The path to recovery from swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment and achieving regaining full function in an injured area, enabling a return to cherished activities for engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands often starts with expert guidance. Karine, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Patients often come to Karine feeling defeated by trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach and resuming managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• It's truly rewarding for Karine to witness patients conquer post-operative stiffness and weakness that’s slowing down my recovery and experience getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain again.

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

Karine practices at Kinatex Beauport, situated in a central Québec neighborhood of Québec. The clinic is housed within a modern private facility conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to combine their physiotherapy sessions with other errands. The location is well-served by local public transit routes, ensuring accessible transportation options for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master’s degree in physiotherapy. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral, a practice known as direct access. However, while a referral is not always legally required to see a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance provider before your appointment.

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance for these services. Some coverage may be available if care is received within a public hospital or CLSC and meets their criteria, but private clinic physiotherapy is typically not covered. It is recommended to verify your coverage directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for details.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, Karine will provide a personalized home exercise program tailored to your specific needs. These exercises are essential for optimizing your recovery, maintaining progress between sessions, and achieving your wellness goals. Performing them consistently as instructed will significantly enhance your results.

Does Kinatex Beauport offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Kinatex Beauport offers direct billing for most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, and others. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointments. If direct billing is not available for your plan, Karine will provide detailed receipts that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. It is advisable to confirm your coverage with your insurer prior to your visits, as plans vary and you are responsible for any remaining balance not covered by your insurance.

Kinatex Beauport
1352, Boulevard des Chutes, Suite 204
Québec, QC G1C 0M5

Phone: (418) 660-0525

Karine Desharnais 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.