Kate Baker – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Kate Baker is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Geriatric Physiotherapy Focus / Seniors' Health). Practicing at CHU de Québec in Québec, QC, Kate is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her practice is centered on serving adults and seniors, focusing on the unique health needs of older adults. Kate aims to improve and maintain mobility, strength, and balance, while managing age-related conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis. Her goal is to help her patients reduce fall risk, enhance their overall quality of life, and foster independence through tailored physiotherapy interventions.
Kate's expertise extends to specialized assessments and treatments for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. Her approach is comprehensive and compassionate, emphasizing early intervention and personalized strategies to address each patient's specific concerns. By integrating evidence-based practices, Kate strives to support her patients in achieving optimal health outcomes and maintaining their autonomy in daily life.
With a robust educational background and ongoing professional development, Kate Baker holds a degree in Physiotherapy and has cultivated significant experience in geriatrics, vestibular rehabilitation, and balance therapy. She is committed to continuous learning to stay current with the latest advancements in physiotherapy and to providing the best possible care. Kate champions a holistic, preventative approach, actively involving her patients in their treatment plans to promote long-term wellness. Fluent in French, she is able to communicate effectively with her diverse patient population, ensuring clarity and comfort throughout the therapeutic process.

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

Geriatric

• Mobility Issues & Gait Disturbances in Seniors: Supporting seniors to maintain or improve their ability to move around effectively and independently in their home and community through targeted physiotherapy.
• Age-Related Deconditioning / Frailty / Sarcopenia Management: A decline in physical function, muscle mass and strength (sarcopenia), and endurance commonly associated with aging or inactivity, sometimes leading to frailty, increased fall risk, and reduced ability to perform daily tasks independently.

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Helping you regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve function in affected joints after a gout episode, as part of your overall gout management plan.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Individualized exercise programs and pain management strategies tailored for psoriatic arthritis to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.

Common Msk

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Difficulty with activities like reaching for objects, dressing, personal care, or carrying items due to underlying shoulder issues, which physiotherapy can help diagnose and treat.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.

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

• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Targeted therapy to alleviate symptoms such as shooting pain, pins and needles, or weakness arising from neural tension or entrapment.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Receiving personalized physiotherapy care online through secure and interactive video sessions with your qualified Physiotherapist, including real-time exercise correction and tailored advice.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Providing professional physiotherapy assessment, treatment, education, and exercise prescription directly in the comfort and convenience of your home environment, especially for those who have difficulty attending an outpatient clinic due to mobility issues, severe pain, or other constraints.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.

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

• With Kate's help, managing recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee to achieve getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• The journey to greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities when faced with persistent pain or weakness that's stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies is made smoother and more effective with Kate's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like being able to carry your baby or toddler without straining your back or arms.
• When recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing keeping up with your team during our weekly soccer match, physiotherapy with Kate can help you work towards achieving their specific mobility goals, whether big or small. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.

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

Kate's practice at CHU de Québec is situated within a modern, accessible clinic in the central Québec neighborhood of Québec. Located within the public healthcare facility, her clinic is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive healthcare support. The location is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring convenient travel for those relying on public transportation. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiothérapeute.

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. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance to cover these services. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It’s difficult to say exactly how many sessions you’ll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone’s situation and recovery path is unique. Some conditions may resolve in just a few sessions, while others could require longer-term care. Your Physiothérapeute will provide an estimated treatment timeline after your initial assessment, and this plan will be adjusted as you progress.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy to confirm specific requirements before your first appointment.

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

Many private health insurance plans offer coverage for physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurer before your first visit to understand your coverage limits, co-payments, and whether a referral is needed. If your plan allows, our clinic can often bill your insurer directly, simplifying the payment process. Please bring your insurance details to your appointment.

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 and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnose, and create treatment plans independently. They can also perform certain restricted activities if certified. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and assisting with exercises but does not diagnose or independently plan treatments. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

CHU de Québec
11, Côte du Palais
Québec, QC G1R 2J6

Phone: (418) 525-4444

Kate Baker 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.