Marie-Audrey Bourgault – Physiotherapist | Gatineau, QC

Marie-Audrey Bourgault is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Clinique Pelvi-Solutions in Gatineau, QC, Marie-Audrey is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach focuses on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal and pelvic health conditions, ensuring each patient receives personalized attention that respects their unique needs and goals.

Marie-Audrey's physiotherapy practice encompasses everything from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. She provides specialized assessment and treatment for conditions related to the pelvic floor and surrounding regions, serving all genders. Her expertise includes managing issues like incontinence, pelvic pain, prolapse, sexual dysfunction, as well as pre- and post-natal concerns, helping her patients regain confidence and improve their quality of life.

With a strong foundation in clinical practice and ongoing professional development, Marie-Audrey has cultivated skills and a particular interest in Orthopedic, Musculoskeletal, and Pelvic Health Physiotherapy. She emphasizes a holistic, evidence-based, and empathetic approach to care, fostering a welcoming and community-focused environment. Fluent in French and English, Marie-Audrey is dedicated to making her services accessible and supportive for Gatineau’s diverse population.

Marie-Audrey Bourgault provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Pelvic Health

• Prostatitis Symptoms / Chronic Pelvic Pain in Men (Supportive Care): Physiotherapy interventions focusing on pelvic floor muscle relaxation, trigger point release (internal and external), nerve gliding, bladder retraining, and pain management strategies for men experiencing prostatitis-like symptoms such as perineal pain, urinary urgency/frequency, or pain with ejaculation.
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Conservative Management): Conservative management of pelvic organ prolapse symptoms, focusing on pelvic floor muscle strengthening and coordination exercises (Kegels), pessary guidance (if applicable), postural advice, and lifestyle modifications to reduce symptoms and improve support.
• Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia) / Vaginismus / Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: Pelvic or genital pain experienced before, during, or after sexual activity (dyspareunia), often related to pelvic floor muscle overactivity (hypertonicity/guarding), trigger points, scar tissue (e.g., from childbirth or surgery), nerve irritation, or conditions like vulvodynia or vestibulodynia. Vaginismus involves involuntary spasm of pelvic floor muscles making penetration difficult or impossible.

Back Neck Pain

• 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.
• 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.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.

Pregnancy Postpartum

• Diastasis Recti (Abdominal Muscle Separation) Assessment & Rehabilitation: Assessment and targeted exercise programs prescribed by a Physiotherapist to help manage and improve abdominal muscle separation postpartum, focusing on deep core muscle activation, safe movement strategies, and gradual progression.
• Postpartum Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (e.g., Incontinence, Pain, Prolapse): Addressing the physical challenges and changes to the pelvic floor and core that can occur after childbirth, helping you regain confidence and function.
• Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) / Low Back Pain / Sciatica: Musculoskeletal pain commonly experienced during pregnancy affecting the sacroiliac (SI) joints, pubic symphysis (SPD), low back, hips, or causing sciatica-like radiating leg pain due to hormonal changes, increased load, and altered biomechanics.

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

• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Personalized physiotherapy programs designed to reduce the impact of chronic pain on your life, helping you to gradually increase activity levels and re-engage in meaningful activities.
• 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.
• Post-Natal (Postpartum) Rehabilitation: A personalized physiotherapy program to guide your physical recovery after having a baby, whether by vaginal delivery or C-section, focusing on your specific needs and goals.
• Pre-Natal (Pregnancy) Physiotherapy: Addressing the unique physical demands of pregnancy with tailored physiotherapy interventions, helping you prevent issues and optimize your well-being.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: A holistic and supportive physiotherapy approach to managing the diffuse pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms commonly associated with fibromyalgia.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Marie-Audrey. 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 Pelvi-Solutions, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Marie-Audrey frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many patients have found lasting relief from knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run and achieved returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance under the skilled care of Marie-Audrey. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as taking group exercise classes at the community center with a new lease on life.
• Many find that sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica significantly impacts their ability to standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event. Marie-Audrey helps patients target implementing practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Living with swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment doesn't have to be your norm. Marie-Audrey applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain.

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

Marie-Audrey practices at Clinique Pelvi-Solutions, located in the Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighborhood of Gatineau. The clinic is conveniently situated near UQO Campus St-Joseph and is easily accessible via the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), including the Rapibus BRT. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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 might be covered if meeting specific criteria. It’s important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

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 benefits athletes, workers with physically demanding jobs, or anyone wishing 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 see 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 verify the requirements of your individual insurance before your first appointment.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiothérapeute will conduct a detailed evaluation, including a discussion about your symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. A physical assessment will then be performed to identify the cause of your condition and assess your capabilities. The therapist will explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a plan of care. You may also receive initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatments to start your recovery.

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 them to assess patients, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and assists by implementing treatment plans, helping with exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising physiotherapist or physician.

Clinique Pelvi-Solutions
150, Boulevard Saint-Raymond
Gatineau, QC J8Y 1T3

Phone: (819) 412-0995

Marie-Audrey Bourgault 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.