Marie-Michèle Gagnon – Physiotherapist | Chicoutimi, QC

Marie-Michèle Gagnon is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CIUSSS Saguenay Lac-St-Jean, hôpital Chicoutimi in Chicoutimi, QC, Marie-Michèle is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes restoring function, improving mobility, and managing symptoms for individuals recovering from neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. She also specializes in managing acute and chronic cardiopulmonary conditions like COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, post-operative cardiac or respiratory recovery, and post-COVID symptoms through breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques, exercise prescription, and patient education.

Marie-Michèle's role involves working closely with adults and seniors, tailoring individualized treatment plans that promote optimal recovery and enhance quality of life. Her focus on evidence-based practices and continuous professional development ensures that her patients benefit from the latest physiotherapy advancements. Her commitment to empowering patients through education and practical strategies helps foster independence and confidence in managing their health conditions.

With a comprehensive educational background and clinical experience, Marie-Michèle has developed a particular interest in neurological and cardiorespiratory physiotherapy. She is fluent in French and English, enabling her to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations. Her practice philosophy centers on a proactive, holistic approach that encourages patients to actively participate in their recovery journey, leading to sustainable health improvements.

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

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Physiotherapy for common nerve compression syndromes, including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist), Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (neck/shoulder), Sciatica (low back/buttock), or Meralgia Paresthetica (outer thigh). Treatment often includes manual therapy, nerve gliding exercises (neural mobilization), postural correction, ergonomic advice, and activity modification.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Management of symptoms such as pain (neuropathic pain), numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness, typically in the hands or feet, resulting from damage to peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord).

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach for individuals recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury, guiding a safe and gradual return to school, work, and sport activities.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Persistent tendon pain that can interfere with your sports, work, or daily activities, often requiring specific loading programs and advice from a physiotherapist for effective management.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.

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

• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Marie-Michèle. 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 Saguenay Lac-St-Jean, hôpital Chicoutimi, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Marie-Michèle frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Marie-Michèle believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If recovering my strength and mobility after a knee or hip replacement surgery is hindering your ability to dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations, a personalized plan focusing on improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain can make all the difference.
• Rediscover your ability to going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again without the constant burden of a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck. Marie-Michèle 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.
• Living with sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica doesn't have to be your norm. Marie-Michèle applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards improved joint health and a slowing of degenerative processes through better biomechanics, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches.

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

Marie-Michèle practices at the CIUSSS Saguenay Lac-St-Jean, hôpital Chicoutimi, situated in a central Chicoutimi neighborhood. The clinic is located within a public healthcare facility that offers convenient access to local community services and pharmacies. Easily reachable via local public transit routes, the facility is designed to accommodate all patients comfortably. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 Physiothérapeute 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.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Care received within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private outpatient physiotherapy is usually not covered by RAMQ. It's recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

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, granting them autonomy to assess patients, diagnose, and develop treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures with additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and implements treatment plans designed by physiotherapists or physicians, assisting with exercises, modalities, and reporting progress.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy encompasses hands-on interventions such as joint glides, soft tissue massage, joint manipulations, and sustained pressures. Your Physiothérapeute uses these techniques to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, relax muscles, and enhance nerve mobility, helping your body move more efficiently.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment sessions usually last between 45 to 60 minutes to allow for a comprehensive evaluation. Follow-up treatments are generally shorter, around 30 to 45 minutes. Duration may vary based on your specific needs and treatment plan.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a referral, known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy's requirements before scheduling your appointment.

CIUSSS Saguenay Lac-St-Jean, hôpital Chicoutimi
305, Rue Saint-Vallier
Chicoutimi, QC G7H 5H6

Phone: (418) 541-1000

Marie-Michèle 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.