Louis Allard – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Louis Allard is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Université Laval, Département réadaptation in Québec, QC, Louis is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. His approach emphasizes comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plans designed to address each patient’s unique needs, promoting optimal recovery and functional independence.

Louis's physiotherapy practice covers a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal, neurological, and balance disorders. He specializes in managing conditions such as acute injuries, chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Additionally, Louis offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues, aiming to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk. His patient demographic includes older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring accessible care across all age groups.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, Louis continually updates his skills through ongoing professional development. His clinical expertise includes Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. Louis’s practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning, empowering them with education and practical strategies for lasting results. Louis is fluent in English and French.

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

Back Neck Pain

• 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.
• 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).

Vestibular Balance

• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for inner ear balance problems, involving customized exercises that promote central nervous system compensation and adaptation to the weakened vestibular input.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Brief, often intense, episodes of dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo) triggered by specific changes in head position (e.g., rolling over in bed, looking up, bending down), caused by displaced inner ear crystals (otoconia).
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): A common cause of chronic dizziness that can be helped with specific physiotherapy strategies aimed at desensitizing the brain to provocative stimuli and normalizing reliance on sensory inputs.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Comprehensive balance assessment by a Physiotherapist to identify underlying causes of unsteadiness, followed by targeted exercise programs and strategies to help you stay steady on your feet.

Common Msk

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Pain affecting the hip joint and surrounding musculature, which can limit activities like walking, standing for long periods, rising from a chair, or lying on the affected side.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Common knee complaints that can affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, squat, run, or participate in sports, addressed through a tailored physiotherapy program.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• 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.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.

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

• If managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease is preventing you from fully enjoying returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun, Louis offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from facial weakness or drooping on one side (like Bell's Palsy) and achieved resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort under the skilled care of Louis. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as getting on and off the floor with ease with a new lease on life.
• Physiotherapy with Louis can be a transformative turning point for those affected by recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist. The shared goal is achieving getting their strength back after surgery or a period of inactivity, paving the way for you to enjoy actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back and a more active, vibrant life.

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

Louis practices at 'Université Laval, Département réadaptation,' situated in a central Québec neighborhood of Québec. This modern clinic is housed within a private Maison d'enseignement facility, conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies. Easily accessible via multiple public transit routes, the clinic offers a welcoming environment for all patients. 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?

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.

Does Université Laval, Département réadaptation offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, our clinic offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. Please bring your insurance card and policy details with you to your appointment. We will process your claim directly with your insurer whenever possible. However, it’s recommended that you confirm your coverage and any specific requirements with your insurance provider prior to your visit, as plans can vary. Patients are responsible for any portion not covered by their insurance.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. Nonetheless, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance plan before your first appointment.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It is helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if applicable, and reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing. Wearing comfortable clothing that allows easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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

Generally, physiotherapy services in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ. Some coverage may be available through specific programs or in public hospitals and CLSCs for qualifying individuals. It is best to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans, as many offer coverage for private outpatient physiotherapy services.

Is there parking available at or near Université Laval, Département réadaptation?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Alternatively, metered street parking is generally available on nearby streets, and a paid public parkade is located within walking distance. Please always check signage for restrictions and time limits.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is to reduce pain and improve function. Some techniques or specific treatments might cause mild, temporary discomfort, especially if tissues are inflamed or very stiff. Your Physiothérapeute will work within your tolerance levels, clearly explain what to expect, and encourage feedback. If you experience significant or persistent pain during treatment, inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made for your comfort.

Université Laval, Département réadaptation
1050, Avenue de la Médecine, Local 4431, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry
Québec, QC G1V 0A6

Phone: (418) 656-2874

Louis Allard 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.