Laurence Ethier – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Laurence Ethier is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at PCN La Capitale in Québec, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Laurence’s approach emphasizes a performance and athletic-oriented focus, addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions to optimize functional movement, enhance athletic performance, and facilitate safe return to activity. Her practice encompasses the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, ensuring that individuals of all levels—from recreational athletes to elite competitors—can recover effectively and achieve their performance goals.
Laurence specializes in evaluating and managing conditions affecting muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Her expertise includes acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain management, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. She tailors her care plans to meet the unique needs of each patient, with a particular focus on helping athletes and active individuals regain strength, flexibility, and confidence in their movements. Laurence serves a diverse patient population that includes older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring comprehensive care for the entire community.
With a background grounded in evidence-based physiotherapy practices, Laurence has developed a keen interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as Sports Physiotherapy. She holds a degree in Physiotherapy and continually advances her skills through ongoing professional development. Her practice philosophy revolves around proactive injury prevention, patient education, and empowering individuals to maintain their wellness long-term. Laurence is fluent in English and French, facilitating clear communication and personalized care for her diverse clientele.

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

Common Msk

• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Pain, swelling, clicking, locking, or instability in or around the knee joint from various causes like ligament sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL), meniscal tears (managed conservatively), or patellofemoral (kneecap) pain.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Disorders affecting hand and wrist function, making daily tasks such as gripping objects, typing, writing, or fine motor activities difficult and painful.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.
• 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.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy for concussion recovery, focusing on symptom management, restoring normal function, and preventing long-term complications through evidence-based interventions.

Back Neck Pain

• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Discomfort, aching, stiffness, or muscle fatigue in the back or neck arising from sustained or awkward postures during daily activities, prolonged work (e.g., desk work, computer use), or sleep.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.
• 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: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Orthopedic Bracing & Support Consultation/Fitting: Helping you choose and correctly use the best brace or support for your specific needs, ensuring proper fit and optimal benefit for your condition.
• Therapeutic & Athletic Taping (e.g., Kinesio, McConnell, Rigid): Taping strategies implemented by your Physiotherapist to aid in injury management, provide stability during activity, offload sensitive tissues, and promote optimal biomechanics.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: An in-depth examination to fully understand your specific condition, allowing your Physiotherapist to create an effective and personalized rehabilitation plan.

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 La Capitale, 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 find that difficulty coordinating my movements, feeling clumsy significantly impacts their ability to playing a full game of recreational hockey with your friends. Laurence helps patients target moving more freely and with greater agility than they have in years with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Laurence frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets effectively managing chronic pain and reclaiming an active lifestyle and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like attending and enjoying your children's or grandchildren's sporting events.
• It's truly rewarding for Laurence to witness patients conquer recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches and experience enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in going on birdwatching outings in various terrains again.

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

Laurence practices at PCN La Capitale, situated in a modern clinic located in the central Québec neighborhood of Québec. The clinic is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access post-appointment essentials. Public transit routes serve the area well, ensuring that patients can reach the clinic via bus or other transit options with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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).

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiothérapeute can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically consult a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. 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 prior to your first appointment.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your initial assessment and treatment planning appointment generally lasts about 60 minutes. Follow-up sessions are usually between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your specific needs and treatment plan.

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 often pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Coverage may be available if receiving care in a hospital or CLSC meeting specific criteria. It is recommended to verify your insurance coverage and eligibility with RAMQ or your provider.

How can I book an appointment at PCN La Capitale?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (418) 627-1410 during business hours. Many practitioners also offer online booking through our website. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in scheduling a suitable appointment with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

PCN La Capitale
4205, 4e Avenue O, bureau 103
Québec, QC G1H 7A6

Phone: (418) 627-1410

Laurence Ethier 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.