Marie Laurence Gagnon – Physiotherapist | La Prairie, QC

Marie Laurence Gagnon is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Accès Physio - La Prairie in La Prairie, 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). Marie takes a comprehensive approach to physiotherapy, addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including those affecting muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Her expertise encompasses acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain management, arthritis care, and post-operative rehabilitation, ensuring her patients regain optimal function and mobility.

In addition to general musculoskeletal care, Marie offers specialized assessment and treatment for complex issues such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ/TMD) disorders, orofacial pain, and various types of headaches with a musculoskeletal component. Her approach is tailored to adult patients, focusing on individualized treatment plans that promote healing, reduce pain, and restore movement. Marie’s dedication to ongoing professional development ensures she remains current with the latest evidence-based practices, enhancing her ability to deliver effective physiotherapy interventions.

Marie’s practice philosophy centers on empowering her patients through education and practical self-management strategies, fostering long-term wellness and injury prevention. She believes in promoting proactive health care, encouraging patients to take an active role in their recovery and ongoing health. Fluent in both French and English, Marie communicates clearly and compassionately, ensuring her patients fully understand their conditions and treatment options.

Marie Laurence Gagnon provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Tmj Headache

• Tension-Type Headaches: Managing and preventing tension-type headaches with physiotherapy, addressing the underlying musculoskeletal factors that contribute to their occurrence.
• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction / TMD: Restoring normal function and reducing pain in your temporomandibular joint and associated structures through targeted physiotherapy interventions.

Back Neck Pain

• 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.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Back or neck pain accompanied by associated limb symptoms (pain, sensory changes, weakness) due to a constricted spinal canal, which physiotherapy can help manage conservatively.
• 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.

Post Surgical

• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Comprehensive physiotherapy for knee ligament injuries post-operatively, focusing on restoring full knee function, power, and agility to meet your specific athletic or lifestyle demands.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A tailored physiotherapy program following hip joint replacement to optimize your recovery, manage pain, ensure adherence to any precautions, and facilitate a return to an active lifestyle.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal surgery.

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

• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Helping you manage fibromyalgia symptoms through targeted exercise, education on pain mechanisms, and self-care strategies to improve daily function and overall quality of life.
• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: A holistic and active approach to managing long-standing pain, empowering you with tools and knowledge for better daily living, increased activity tolerance, and improved mood.
• 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.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Specialized manual techniques aimed at restoring normal movement and function to peripheral nerves that may be compressed, adhered, or under tension.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.

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

• At Marie's physiotherapy practice, individuals with pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) are guided towards feeling equipped with effective self-management strategies and exercises. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
• Struggling with the frustration of that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away? Marie develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving a significantly reduced risk of falling, enhancing safety and independence. This is key to helping you get back to doing reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Are you finding that sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica stops you from enjoying maintaining your balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails? Marie is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve improved coordination for complex movements and fine motor tasks through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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

Marie practices at Accès Physio - La Prairie, situated in a conveniently located clinic in the heart of La Prairie's central neighborhood. The clinic is part of a modern facility that is easily accessible to residents and visitors alike. It is positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to integrate their physiotherapy appointments into their daily routines. The clinic is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring convenient access for those relying on transit. 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?

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Does Accès Physio - La Prairie offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Accès Physio - La Prairie offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, etc. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to facilitate the process. While we do not guarantee coverage for all plans, our team will assist in submitting claims directly whenever possible. Patients should always verify their specific coverage, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductibles, directly with their insurance provider. Any portion not covered by insurance remains the patient's responsibility.

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 check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm their requirements.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy encompasses a range of hands-on interventions used by Physiothérapeutes to help reduce pain, improve joint mobility, relax tight muscles, and restore nerve mobility. Techniques include joint glides, soft tissue massage, sustained pressures, and joint manipulations when appropriate. It is a key component of effective physiotherapy care aimed at improving movement and reducing discomfort.

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

Generally, physiotherapy services in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ in Quebec. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Certain services received within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if specific criteria are met, but private outpatient physiotherapy usually is not subsidized by RAMQ. Patients are encouraged to verify their private insurance coverage for physiotherapy services.

Accès Physio - La Prairie
675, Chemin de Saint-Jean, # 101
La Prairie, QC J5R 2L2

Phone: (450) 444-2536

Marie Laurence Gagnon 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.