Louise Watters – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Louise Watters is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at Centre d'Hébergement Sacré-Coeur in Québec, QC, Louise 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 quality of life, Louise specializes in neurological rehabilitation. Her approach involves a comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plans to support patients recovering from neurological events such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. In addition, she addresses a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including acute injuries like sprains and strains, chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation, ensuring a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Louise completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated extensive clinical experience. Her ongoing commitment to professional development ensures she stays current with evidence-based practices. Louise has developed particular expertise in neurological physiotherapy and orthopedic and musculoskeletal care, allowing her to deliver specialized interventions that meet the unique needs of her patients. Her clinical approach emphasizes a patient-centered philosophy, involving individuals actively in their treatment planning and goal setting, which fosters empowerment and promotes lasting results.

Communicating fluently in French, Louise values clear and compassionate patient interaction. Her philosophy centers on empowering patients through education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies. This approach aims to improve not only physical outcomes but also to enhance overall confidence and independence, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and effective care tailored to their specific health goals.

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

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Physiotherapy to help you regain optimal use of your hand and wrist after an injury, surgery, or due to a chronic condition, enabling you to return to work, hobbies, and daily tasks.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.

Neurological

• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Gentle exercises, stretching programs, and strategies to preserve strength and function, and to manage secondary complications associated with muscular dystrophies.
• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy aimed at improving mobility (e.g., walking, transfers), balance, strength, coordination, sensation, and daily function (e.g., dressing, self-care) after a stroke (cerebrovascular accident).
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with MS stay active, manage symptoms effectively, maintain independence for as long as possible, and adapt to changes in their condition.

Post Surgical

• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: A structured, progressive, and goal-oriented physiotherapy rehabilitation program crucial for restoring knee stability, strength, range of motion, and proprioception (joint position sense) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or other knee ligament (e.g., PCL, MCL, LCL) reconstructive surgery.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Helping you manage pain, improve scar mobility, and regain optimal strength and range of motion in a limb following fracture fixation surgery.

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

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): A form of manual therapy that actively involves you in your treatment, utilizing your body's muscular effort to achieve specific therapeutic effects on restricted joints and shortened soft tissues.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Application of skilled soft tissue techniques to manage pain, stiffness, and improve function in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Improving the mobility and health of your nervous system to reduce pain, restore sensation, and enhance overall function.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Customized exercise-based programs (e.g., gaze stabilization, habituation, balance retraining exercises) prescribed by a trained Vestibular Physiotherapist to reduce vestibular symptoms, improve functional balance, decrease fall risk, and enhance confidence in movement.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Baseline concussion testing (if offered by the clinic/practitioner) and evidence-based post-injury management to ensure a safe and effective recovery from mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI).

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Louise. 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 Centre d'Hébergement Sacré-Coeur, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Louise frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• The journey to enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications when faced with persistent recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee is made smoother and more effective with Louise's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like operating machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist? Louise works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as playing actively and roughhousing with your young kids or grandkids.
• Patients struggling with trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip can find dedicated and compassionate support from Louise. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving a better ability to cope with the physical stresses of daily life, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating your back.

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

Louise practices at Centre d'Hébergement Sacré-Coeur, situated in a central Québec neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it accessible for patients in the region. The clinic is easily reachable via local public transit routes, supporting accessible care for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What are Centre d'Hébergement Sacré-Coeur's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and some practitioners offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, hours can vary by practitioner and day, so please call our office at (418) 555-1234 or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

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

In Québec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or utilize private insurance. Care received directly in public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered under certain conditions. It is recommended to verify eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance provider for coverage details.

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, allowing autonomous assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma (DEC) focused on technical application, assisting physiotherapists and physicians with implementing treatment plans, guiding exercises, and reporting progress.

Is there parking available at or near Centre d'Hébergement Sacré-Coeur?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Metered street parking is generally available on nearby streets, and a paid public parkade is located one block east of our clinic. Limited street parking may also be available in the vicinity; please check local signage for restrictions.

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

In Québec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your specific insurance policy before your appointment.

Centre d'Hébergement Sacré-Coeur
1, Avenue du Sacré-Coeur
Québec, QC G1N 2W1

Phone: (418) 529-4777

Louise Watters 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.