Kim Blanchard is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Physiothérapie du Centre du Québec inc. in Drummondville, QC. Kim 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). Her approach emphasizes a performance-oriented and athletic focus, ensuring that patients receive tailored interventions to optimize their movement, strength, and overall physical health. Kim’s expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions, making her a trusted partner for athletes and active individuals seeking to enhance their performance or recover from injuries.
Kim's role extends beyond injury treatment; she specializes in the assessment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, helping athletes of all levels—from recreational enthusiasts to elite competitors—return to their sport safely and efficiently. Her care approach integrates manual therapy, functional movement analysis, and evidence-based practices to promote recovery, prevent future issues, and improve overall functional capacity. Kim serves a diverse clientele, including older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, providing comprehensive physiotherapy solutions that support an active, healthy lifestyle.
With a solid educational foundation and ongoing professional development, Kim has developed extensive skills in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Sports Physiotherapy. Her philosophy is rooted in continuous learning, emphasizing preventative care and wellness strategies that empower her patients. Kim is fluent in French, ensuring clear communication and personalized care for her community in Drummondville and beyond.
Kim Blanchard provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Common Msk
- Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
- Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.
- Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.
Back Neck Pain
- Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Post-traumatic neck pain, restricted movement, and associated issues common after car accidents, which benefit from early and appropriate physiotherapy intervention.
- Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Back or neck pain accompanied by associated limb symptoms (pain, sensory changes, weakness) due to a constricted spinal canal, which physiotherapy can help manage conservatively.
- Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
Arthritis
- 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.
- Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.
- 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.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Kim can assess your needs.
- Custom Foot Orthotic Assessment & Prescription (if offered/certified): Comprehensive evaluation by a qualified Physiotherapist of your foot mechanics, lower limb alignment, and gait pattern to determine the need for custom-made foot orthotics.
- Orthopedic Bracing & Support Consultation/Fitting: Providing customized or appropriately sized bracing solutions to protect injured areas, limit harmful movements, reduce pain, and support your return to function or sport.
- Therapeutic & Athletic Taping (e.g., Kinesio, McConnell, Rigid): Application of various supportive and therapeutic taping techniques (e.g., elastic Kinesio tape for proprioception and muscle facilitation, McConnell taping for patellar tracking, rigid athletic tape for joint support) to protect joints, support muscles, reduce pain, manage swelling, or improve movement patterns.
- Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
- Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Evaluation of your body's basic movements (like squatting, lunging, reaching) to highlight areas for improvement in stability, mobility, and motor control.
- 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.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Kim. 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 Physiothérapie du Centre du Québec inc., physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Kim frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- When managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips, physiotherapy with Kim can help you work towards a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
- Dealing with the ongoing challenges of facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy)? Kim works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of feeling equipped with effective self-management strategies and exercises. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as walking your children to school or the park.
- If recovering my strength and mobility after a knee or hip replacement surgery is preventing you from fully enjoying working at your desk all day without developing back or neck stiffness, Kim offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Kim, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Kim practices at Physiothérapie du Centre du Québec inc., located in the Drummondville West area within the Saint-Charles-de-Drummond neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Les Promenades Drummondville (Mall), making it easy to access for local residents and visitors alike. The facility is accessible via the Société de transport de Drummondville (STD), ensuring a smooth commute for those using public transit. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.
- What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
- It's recommended to wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and provides easy access for your physiotherapist to examine the body part being assessed or treated. For instance, if you have a knee problem, please wear or bring shorts. For shoulder issues, a sleeveless top or a top with loose armholes is often helpful. The goal is to make the assessment and treatment as effective as possible.
- Is physiotherapy covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- In Quebec, most physiotherapy services in private clinics are not directly covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is advisable to verify with RAMQ and your insurance provider for your specific coverage details.
- What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?
- In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiothérapeute may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.
- 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 or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check your insurance policy before your appointment.
- What is Physiothérapie du Centre du Québec inc.'s appointment cancellation policy?
- We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee may be charged for late cancellations or no-shows without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to modify 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 in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, and create treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and monitoring progress without diagnosis authority. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).
- I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?
- Many private insurance plans offer coverage for physiotherapy services. It is advisable to contact your insurer before your appointment to understand your coverage limits, co-payments, and whether a physician’s referral is necessary for reimbursement. We can often bill your insurance directly if your plan allows; otherwise, you will receive an invoice to submit yourself. Please bring your insurance details to your first visit.
Physiothérapie du Centre du Québec inc.
3745, Rue Georges-Couture, # 104
Drummondville, QC J2B 7P4
Phone: (819) 478-1351 | Website: www.physiocentreduquebec.com
Kim Blanchard 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.