Marie-Claire Holland – Physiotherapist | Gatineau, QC

Marie-Claire Holland is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at MédiSport Physio in Gatineau, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that adheres to the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs, aiming to optimize recovery and enhance athletic performance. Marie-Claire's focus encompasses addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including issues involving muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation.

Specializing in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, Marie-Claire is passionate about helping athletes of all levels—from recreational participants to elite competitors—return safely to their sport, improve performance, and prevent future injuries. Her care extends to children, adolescents, and adults, ensuring a holistic approach that supports active lifestyles across the lifespan. By combining evidence-based practices with a performance-oriented mindset, Marie-Claire strives to empower her patients to achieve their wellness and athletic goals.

Marie-Claire completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing professional development. She continuously updates her skills and knowledge in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Sports Physiotherapy. Her practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. She believes in empowering her patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Fluent in English and French, Marie-Claire is dedicated to providing accessible, effective care to her diverse patient community.

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

Common Msk

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Pain, swelling, clicking, locking, or instability in or around the knee joint from various causes like ligament sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL), meniscal tears (managed conservatively), or patellofemoral (kneecap) pain.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Common ankle injuries causing acute pain, persistent swelling, and instability, significantly affecting your ability to walk, run, or participate in sports.

Sports Injury

• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome): An overuse injury resulting from repetitive friction of the IT band over the lateral femoral epicondyle (at the knee) or greater trochanter (at the hip).
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Pain and tenderness along the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia), often resulting from running, jumping, or other repetitive impact activities, especially with sudden increases in training intensity or volume.

Post Surgical

• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Physiotherapy aimed at restoring movement, strength, and function after surgical repair of broken bones (e.g., Open Reduction Internal Fixation - ORIF, intramedullary nailing), once the fracture site is sufficiently healed and cleared for rehabilitation by your surgeon.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Gentle and progressive physiotherapy rehabilitation following spinal surgery (e.g., for disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or spinal fusion), initiated once cleared by your surgeon, to improve mobility, core strength, posture, reduce pain, and safely return to daily activities.

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

• 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.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.

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

• Rediscover your ability to getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing without the constant burden of pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard. Marie-Claire focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
• It's truly rewarding for Marie-Claire to witness patients conquer loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury and experience feeling more energetic and less weighed down by physical discomfort. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play again.
• Many find that clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk significantly impacts their ability to walking your children to school or the park. Marie-Claire helps patients target developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Marie-Claire practices at MédiSport Physio, situated in the Gatineau Sector Central (Mont-Luc, Tecumseh) neighborhood of Gatineau. This private clinic is conveniently located near Federal Government Buildings, including Place du Portage, making it easily accessible for clients working or living in the area. The clinic is well-connected via the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO) system, including the Rapibus BRT, ensuring straightforward transit options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

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

In Quebec, most physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are not directly covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance to cover these costs. Some publicly funded physiotherapy may be available through certain programs or in hospital settings, but eligibility is limited. It is essential to verify your specific coverage with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for reimbursement options.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a practice known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the requirements of your insurance provider before your appointment.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your initial appointment, which includes a thorough assessment and treatment planning, typically lasts about 60 minutes. Follow-up sessions usually range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your specific needs and treatment plan.

What is the difference between a Physiotherapist (Physiothérapeute) and a Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) in Quebec?

A Physiothérapeute has completed a master's level university education, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma (DEC) and plays a vital role in implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, and applying modalities under supervision.

Does MédiSport Physio offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, MédiSport Physio offers direct billing for most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, and Blue Cross. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. If direct billing is not available for your plan, we provide detailed receipts that you can submit to your insurer for reimbursement. It is recommended to verify your coverage with your insurance provider before your appointment.

MédiSport Physio
444, Boulevard de l'Hôpital, suite 130
Gatineau, QC J8T 7X6

Phone: (819) 282-7095 | Website: www.medisportphysio.ca

Marie-Claire Holland 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.