Marie-Claude Begin – Physiotherapy Technologist | East Angus, QC

Marie-Claude Begin is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSSS DE L'ESTRIE in East Angus, QC, Marie-Claude is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her focus is on assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. She serves adults and seniors, ensuring they receive personalized care tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Marie-Claude has completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has gained valuable clinical experience that fuels her ongoing professional development. She is dedicated to evidence-based physiotherapy practices, continually updating her skills in areas such as therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Her approach emphasizes a collaborative, respectful relationship with her patients, fostering a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered in their healing journey.

Her practice philosophy centers on a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Marie-Claude is committed to evidence-based practice and continuous learning to provide the best care possible. She is fluent in English and French, ensuring clear communication and a welcoming experience for diverse patients in her community.

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

Common Msk

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Aching, burning, sharp pain, or a 'pins and needles' sensation in the wrist, thumb, or hand region, sometimes waking you at night.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.

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

• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• 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.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: A non-invasive electrotherapy modality aimed at reducing pain, muscle guarding, or swelling, and sometimes used for muscle strengthening, as part of your physiotherapy treatment.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: A non-invasive light therapy used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, promote faster healing, reduce pain, and modulate inflammation without generating heat.

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

• Living with swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment doesn't have to be your norm. Marie-Claude applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of attending your favorite yoga and pilates classes without limitation.
• Struggling with the frustration of awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I’m walking on glass (plantar fasciitis)? Marie-Claude develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress. This is key to helping you get back to doing getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Many individuals seek help from Marie-Claude, their physiotherapist, when my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly) starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve enjoying family vacations and outings with more energy and less pain, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around your neighborhood for fresh air.

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

Marie-Claude practices at the CIUSSS DE L'ESTRIE, situated in a central East Angus neighborhood of East Angus. The clinic is housed within a public healthcare facility that is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies. Easily accessible via local public transit routes, the clinic offers a welcoming environment for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, which is known as direct access. However, while a referral may not be legally required to *see* the professional, some private or extended health insurance plans do require a doctor’s referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm their specific requirements.

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 through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if specific criteria are met. It is important to verify your coverage with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for reimbursement options.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapy Technologist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

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 Physiotherapy Technologist 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.

CIUSSS DE L'ESTRIE
110, Rue Lafontaine
East Angus, QC J0B 1R0

Phone: (819) 821-4000

Marie-Claude Begin 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.