Laurie Deschênes – Physiotherapy Technologist | Québec, QC

Laurie Deschênes is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at Clinique de physiothérapie de Lac St-Charles in Québec, QC, Laurie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Laurie’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 functional improvement. She passionately works with a diverse range of patients, including older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring tailored care that respects each individual’s unique needs and goals.

Laurie Deschênes completed her degree as a Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.), gaining valuable clinical experience that continues to shape her approach. She is deeply committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices, which enables her to stay current with the latest techniques and treatment modalities. Laurie has developed particular expertise in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, always aiming to optimize health outcomes through careful assessment and personalized interventions.

Her practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Laurie promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Québec community by fostering a proactive approach to physiotherapy. She actively involves her patients in treatment planning and goal setting, ensuring that their voices are heard and their aspirations are integrated into their care. Laurie is fluent in both French and English, allowing her to communicate effectively and compassionately with a wide range of patients.

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

Common Msk

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Difficulty with activities like reaching for objects, dressing, personal care, or carrying items due to underlying shoulder issues, which physiotherapy can help diagnose and treat.
• 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.
• 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.

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

• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Laurie. 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 Clinique de physiothérapie de Lac St-Charles, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Laurie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Laurie can help you move beyond pain or weakness that's stopping you from enjoying your favorite hobbies. The focus is on reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips.
• Many individuals seek help from Laurie, their physiotherapist, when recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter.
• Rediscover your ability to getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing without the constant burden of one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain. Laurie focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to implementing practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.

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

Laurie's practice is located at the 'Clinique de physiothérapie de Lac St-Charles', situated in a central Québec neighborhood of Québec. This private clinic facility offers a welcoming and accessible environment, conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies. Easily reachable via local public transit routes, the clinic is designed to accommodate patients with varying mobility needs. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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 usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. Patients are advised to verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and to check their private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer substantial physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics.

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 patients, make diagnoses, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. A Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.), on the other hand, holds a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. Laurie, as a Physiotherapy Technologist, plays a vital role in executing treatment plans, assisting patients with exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress to supervising professionals.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access a Physiotherapy Technologist 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 recommended to check with your insurance provider prior to your appointment to understand their specific requirements.

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. It is advisable to contact your insurance provider before your first visit to understand your plan's details. Key points to confirm include your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required, and if the clinic can bill your insurer directly. If direct billing is available and your plan permits, Laurie can often bill your insurer directly for the covered services, with you responsible for any remaining co-payment. Always bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your initial physiotherapy session usually lasts around an hour, allowing ample time for a thorough assessment and discussion of treatment goals. Follow-up appointments typically range from 30 to 45 minutes but can vary based on your individual needs. Laurie will advise you on the appropriate duration for your specific case.

How can I book an appointment at Clinique de physiothérapie de Lac St-Charles?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic at (418) 849-0009 during business hours. Many practitioners also offer online booking via our website. Our friendly staff will assist you in scheduling a convenient time with the appropriate physiotherapist to meet your needs.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your first appointment involves a comprehensive assessment. Laurie will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. A physical examination follows, including evaluation of range of motion, strength, posture, and movement patterns. Based on these findings, Laurie will provide a diagnosis or clinical impression, discuss a personalized treatment plan, and often initiate some initial interventions or provide educational resources and home exercises to start your recovery journey.

Clinique de physiothérapie de Lac St-Charles
1031, Rue Jacques-Bédard
Québec, QC G2N 1E4

Phone: (418) 849-0009

Laurie Deschênes 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.