Laurence Bilodeau – Physiotherapy Technologist | Québec, QC

Laurence Bilodeau is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at PCN Ste-Foy in Québec, 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 physiotherapists or physicians, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and enhance functional mobility. Laurence primarily serves adult patients, helping them regain strength, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life through personalized physiotherapy interventions.

Laurence completed their degree in Physiotherapy Technology and has accumulated valuable clinical experience. Committed to ongoing professional development, Laurence stays current with evidence-based practices and advances in physiotherapy. Laurence has developed particular skills and interest in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, ensuring each individual receives tailored care that promotes healing and long-term wellness.

With a compassionate and empathetic approach, Laurence emphasizes a patient-centered philosophy, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Laurence believes in empowering patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies to achieve lasting health improvements. Laurence is fluent in French, facilitating effective communication and compassionate care for the diverse community in Québec.

Laurence Bilodeau 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.
• 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.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Aching, sharp, or persistent pain located in the lower back, which may sometimes extend into the buttocks or legs, limiting your comfort.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Discomfort experienced in the hip region, groin, outer hip, or buttock, potentially stemming from joint inflammation (bursitis), muscle strains, tendinopathy, or conservative management of labral tears.

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

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: The use of moist heat packs, paraffin wax, or other heat sources by your Physiotherapist to relax muscles, increase local blood flow, reduce stiffness, alleviate chronic pain, and improve tissue extensibility.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving 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 PCN Ste-Foy, 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:

• Many individuals seek help from Laurence, their physiotherapist, when pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again.
• Physiotherapy with Laurence can be a transformative turning point for those affected by managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease. The shared goal is achieving improved balance and coordination, leading to safer and more confident mobility in seniors, paving the way for you to enjoy pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty and a more active, vibrant life.
• When swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing operating machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work, physiotherapy with Laurence can help you work towards sleeping more soundly through the night due to reduced pain and discomfort. 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 Laurence, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Laurence practices at PCN Ste-Foy, situated in a centrally located clinic in the Québec neighborhood of Québec. The facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to combine their physiotherapy appointments with other errands. Accessible via local public transit routes, the clinic ensures that patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapy Technologist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

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).

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

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Laurence or your Québec healthcare provider directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapy Technologist 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.

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 utilize private insurance for these services. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if specific criteria are met, but private clinic physiotherapy is typically not included. It’s advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

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 Laurence’s clinic offers direct billing and your plan permits 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, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not required to *see* a Physiotherapy Technologist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first visit to ensure smooth coverage.

PCN Ste-Foy
3211, Chemin Sainte-Foy
Québec, QC G1X 1R3

Phone: (418) 653-1930

Laurence Bilodeau 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.