Laurence Beaulieu-Boire – Physiotherapist | Sherbrooke, QC

Laurence Beaulieu-Boire is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CIUSSS de L'Estrie CHUS in Sherbrooke, 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). With a focus on assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing their overall quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease, Laurence provides compassionate and personalized physiotherapy care. She also addresses a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including acute injuries like sprains and strains, chronic pain management, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation, ensuring each patient receives tailored strategies that promote healing and wellness.

Laurence completed her degree in Physiotherapy with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and continuous professional development. With extensive clinical experience, she has cultivated expertise in Neurological Physiotherapy and Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Laurence is passionate about empowering her patients through education, fostering self-management strategies, and guiding them on their journey to recovery. Her approach combines the latest research with practical techniques, which allows her to deliver effective treatments that meet her patients' unique needs and goals.

Her practice philosophy revolves around patient empowerment, active participation, and a holistic view of health. Laurence believes that clear communication and education are vital to successful rehabilitation, and she is dedicated to involving her patients in every step of their treatment planning. Fluent in both English and French, Laurence ensures that language is never a barrier to compassionate, comprehensive care, and she fosters a warm, community-oriented environment where everyone feels supported and understood.

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

Neurological

• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Comprehensive physiotherapy focusing on improving strength in available muscles, enhancing functional mobility, and promoting health and wellness after a spinal cord injury.
• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Physiotherapy aimed at maintaining optimal function, managing contractures (joint stiffness), optimizing mobility (including prescription of mobility aids), adapting activities, and managing respiratory function (if applicable) for individuals with progressive muscle weakness due to muscular dystrophy or other myopathies.
• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation for facial nerve disorders to help restore facial expression, improve function (e.g., eating, speaking, eye closure), and enhance overall facial appearance and confidence.
• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Physiotherapy interventions focusing on large-amplitude movements, rhythmic activities, and strategies to overcome movement difficulties associated with Parkinson's.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
• 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.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy management of acute and persistent symptoms of a concussion, including addressing associated neck pain/dysfunction (cervicogenic component), vestibular (balance/dizziness) issues, oculomotor (eye movement) problems, and exertional intolerance.

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

• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Specialized therapeutic interventions provided by a Neuro Physiotherapist to assist individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, balance, coordination, strength, and independence following a neurological event or diagnosis.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Educating you about your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline (prognosis), and the reasons behind your treatment plan to encourage active participation in your healing.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• 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.

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 CIUSSS de L'Estrie CHUS, 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:

• Patients often come to Laurence feeling defeated by difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke. 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.
• When loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing peacefully paddling your kayak or canoe on the lake for hours, physiotherapy with Laurence can help you work towards resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Are you finding that needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity stops you from enjoying getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing? Laurence is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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

Laurence practices at the CIUSSS de L'Estrie CHUS, situated in the Fleurimont West (Hospital Area) neighborhood of Sherbrooke. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Théâtre Granada and is easily accessible via the Société de transport de Sherbrooke (STS). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiothérapeute has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Some care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if specific criteria are met. It’s important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private or extended health insurance plan for coverage details.

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

No, in Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private insurance plans or extended health benefits may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy before your appointment.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

It is common to experience some soreness or mild symptoms after physiotherapy, especially when starting new exercises. This usually resolves within 24-48 hours. If you experience severe pain, new neurological symptoms, or if symptoms persist longer than expected, contact Laurence or your healthcare provider for guidance. They can help determine if further assessment is needed.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and plays a supportive role in implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising physiotherapist or physician.

CIUSSS de L'Estrie CHUS
1036, Rue Belvédère S, Pavillon D'Youville
Sherbrooke, QC J1H 4C4

Phone: (819) 780-2220

Laurence Beaulieu-Boire 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.