Lucie Labenski Blench – Physiotherapist | Ottawa, ON

Lucie Labenski Blench is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Queensway Carleton Hospital in Ottawa, ON, Lucie Labenski Blench is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Lucie Labenski Blench's focus is providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries, pain conditions, and movement dysfunctions to help patients of all ages restore function, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Lucie Labenski Blench serves adults.

Lucie Labenski Blench completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Université de Montréal (Graduating Class of 1967). With extensive clinical experience, Lucie Labenski Blench is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Lucie Labenski Blench has a particular interest and further training in areas such as General Physiotherapy Practice and general physiotherapy.

Lucie Labenski Blench's practice philosophy centers around a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care; a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; and empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Lucie Labenski Blench offers consultations in English, French.

Lucie Labenski Blench provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Sports Injury

• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): Localized bone pain that typically worsens with activity and is relieved by rest, often accompanied by tenderness to touch over the affected bone.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Pain felt around, under, or behind the kneecap (patella), often described as a dull ache that is aggravated by activities like running, jumping, squatting, using stairs (especially going down), or prolonged sitting with the knee bent.

Back Neck Pain

• 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).
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Post-traumatic neck pain, restricted movement, and associated issues common after car accidents, which benefit from early and appropriate physiotherapy intervention.
• 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.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Lucie Labenski Blench can assess your needs.

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Targeted manual methods performed by your Physiotherapist to release tight or overactive muscles, address fascial restrictions, and alleviate pain arising from soft tissue dysfunction.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Lucie Labenski Blench, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

At Queensway Carleton Hospital, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Lucie Labenski Blench frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Are you finding that dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women) stops you from enjoying getting back to their regular, consistent gym workouts? Lucie Labenski Blench is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Lucie Labenski Blench can help you move beyond numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs. The focus is on a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again.
• Rediscover your ability to getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing without the constant burden of feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems. Lucie Labenski Blench focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Lucie Labenski Blench's clinic, common concerns like recurrent dislocations or a feeling of instability in my shoulder or knee are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again.

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

Lucie Labenski Blench practices at Queensway Carleton Hospital, situated in the Bells Corners, Lynwood Village neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Embassy Row and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Our clinic is accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

In Ontario, you typically do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist. This is known as direct access. However, while a referral isn't legally required for your appointment, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is strongly recommended that you check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific coverage requirements.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by OHIP. OHIP may cover physiotherapy in specific situations, such as post-hospitalization for certain conditions or for some individuals through community programs. However, eligibility criteria are strict, and waitlists may exist. To determine your eligibility for publicly funded physiotherapy, please contact OHIP directly. Most people utilize private insurance plans to cover the cost of physiotherapy in private clinics. It's essential to check your private insurance policy for coverage details.

What is Queensway Carleton Hospital's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

Is there parking available at or near Queensway Carleton Hospital?

Paid parking is available in a parkade near Queensway Carleton Hospital. There may also be some limited street parking available; however, please be sure to check local signage for any restrictions or time limits.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiotherapist.

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

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It's difficult to say exactly how many sessions you'll need without a thorough assessment, as everyone's situation and recovery path is unique. Some acute conditions might resolve in just a few sessions, while more chronic, complex, or significant issues may require a longer period of care to achieve lasting results. Your Physiotherapist will provide an estimated treatment timeline and plan after your first visit, and this will be revisited as your treatment progresses.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Essentially, physiotherapy helps you get moving and stay moving effectively and comfortably. Whether you're dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a condition affecting your physical abilities, your Physiotherapist will work with you. They'll use their expertise in body mechanics, rehabilitation, and pain management to create a personalized treatment plan involving exercises, hands-on techniques, and practical advice to help you achieve your functional goals and live a more active, fulfilling life.

Queensway Carleton Hospital
3045 Baseline Rd.
Ottawa, ON, K2H 8P4

Phone: (613) 721-2000

Lucie Labenski Blench is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Registration Number: XXX44

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=682f73c9-8902-e811-8134-480fcff4f671

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.