Laurence Auclair – Physiotherapy Technologist | Thetford Mines, QC

Laurence Auclair is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at Ergophysio des Appalaches in Thetford Mines, QC, Laurence is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Laurence's 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. She serves adult patients, helping them regain mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being through personalized physiotherapy interventions.

Laurence completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing commitment to professional development. She continually updates her skills and knowledge base, with particular interests in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Laurence’s approach emphasizes evidence-based practices, ensuring her patients receive effective and safe treatments tailored to their individual needs.

Her philosophy centers on a patient-focused, collaborative approach—actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Laurence believes in promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Thetford Mines community through proactive physiotherapy. She is fluent in both French and English, enabling her to communicate effectively and compassionately with diverse patients.

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

Common Msk

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Discomfort felt around the shoulder blade, at the top of the shoulder, or radiating down the arm, making simple tasks challenging.
• 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.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.

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

• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): A common physiotherapy treatment for acute injuries, designed to help numb pain, decrease bleeding into the tissues, and minimize secondary hypoxic injury.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.

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

• It's truly rewarding for Laurence to witness patients conquer difficulty coordinating their movements, feeling clumsy, and experiencing a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in and safely meet the lifting requirements at your workplace again.
• Don't let recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches dictate what you can and cannot do. Laurence offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at achieving your mobility goals, whether big or small, helping you reclaim performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and dexterity with ease and enjoy a more functional life.
• Struggling with the frustration of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as you get older? Laurence develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks. This is key to helping you get back to doing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching your back with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Laurence practices at Ergophysio des Appalaches, situated in a modern clinic located in the heart of the Thetford Mines neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently positioned within the central area of Thetford Mines, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. It is close to various community services and pharmacies, providing a seamless healthcare experience. The clinic is accessible via local public transit routes, ensuring many patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can also perform certain advanced procedures if they have the required additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They play a crucial role in delivering care by implementing treatment plans designed by a physiotherapist or physician, assisting patients with their exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising professional.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

You can expect your initial physiotherapy visit to be around an hour long. This extended time allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a collaborative discussion about your treatment goals. Subsequent follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on your individual requirements. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will advise on the appropriate appointment length for your specific care.

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

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If Ergophysio des Appalaches offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, as part of the direct access system. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy 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 provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC (if meeting their criteria) might be covered, but private outpatient physiotherapy in clinics is typically not. Always verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

Ergophysio des Appalaches
922, Boulevard Frontenac E
Thetford Mines, QC G6G 6H1

Phone: (418) 335-3746

Laurence Auclair 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.