Kristina Vachon – Physiotherapy Technologist | Sherbrooke, QC

Kristina Vachon is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS (Hôpital Fleurimont) in Sherbrooke, QC, Kristina is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her role focuses on assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Kristina primarily serves adult patients, helping them regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being through personalized care.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy technology, Kristina completed her college-level diploma in physiotherapy technology. Her clinical experience has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development, ensuring her practices are evidence-based and tailored to each individual's needs. Kristina’s approach is rooted in empowering her patients through education and practical strategies, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages active participation in recovery.

Kristina values a patient-centered philosophy, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. She believes in clear communication, practical education, and self-management strategies that promote lasting health benefits. Kristina is fluent in French, which allows her to provide accessible and personalized care to a diverse community of patients in Sherbrooke and surrounding areas.

Kristina Vachon 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): Symptoms in your hand or wrist that impact your ability to perform your job, hobbies, or essential self-care tasks, addressed by specialized hand physiotherapy.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.

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

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
• 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.
• 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: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Kristina. 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 CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS (Hôpital Fleurimont), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Kristina frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Through personalized physiotherapy at Kristina's clinic, common concerns like one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like operating machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Kristina can help you move beyond recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim). The focus is on improved circulation and tissue healing, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun.
• For those whose post-operative stiffness and weakness that's slowing down my recovery has made painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache seem like a distant memory, Kristina's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Kristina practices at CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS (Hôpital Fleurimont), situated in the Fleurimont West (Hospital Area) neighborhood of Sherbrooke. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Bishop's University and is accessible via Société de transport de Sherbrooke (STS). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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).

Is there parking available at or near CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS (Hôpital Fleurimont)?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Metered street parking is generally available on nearby streets, and there is also a paid public parkade located a short walk east of our clinic. Please always check signage for restrictions or time limits.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) directly without a physician's referral, a practice known as direct access. However, while a referral may not be legally required to *see* Kristina, some private or extended health insurance plans do require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It's advisable to verify the requirements of your insurance plan before your appointment.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Kristina will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what’s done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you’re not in a session.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if it meets specific criteria. Always check with your insurance provider and RAMQ for your eligibility and coverage details.

CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS (Hôpital Fleurimont)
3001, 12e Avenue N
Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4

Phone: (819) 346-1110

Kristina Vachon 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.