Marie-Michèle Gravel – Physiotherapy Technologist | Sorel-Tracy, QC

Marie-Michèle Gravel is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS DE LA MONTÉRÉGIE EST (SHEL) in Sorel-Tracy, QC, Marie-Michèle 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 primarily serves adults and seniors, helping them regain mobility, manage pain, and enhance their overall well-being.

Marie-Michèle completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing professional development. She is dedicated to applying evidence-based physiotherapy practices and has developed particular skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Her approach emphasizes personalized care, ensuring that each patient’s unique needs and goals are addressed with compassion and expertise.

With a philosophy rooted in a collaborative approach, Marie-Michèle works closely with her patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. She empowers individuals through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies that promote lasting results. She actively promotes preventative care and long-term wellness within the Sorel-Tracy community. Marie-Michèle is fluent in French, facilitating effective communication and support for her diverse patient population.

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

Common Msk

• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Aching, sharp, or persistent pain located in the lower back, which may sometimes extend into the buttocks or legs, limiting your comfort.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Difficulty with activities like reaching for objects, dressing, personal care, or carrying items due to underlying shoulder issues, which physiotherapy can help diagnose and treat.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Aching, sharp pain, a feeling of the knee 'giving way', or difficulty fully bending or straightening your knee.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Pain affecting the hip joint and surrounding musculature, which can limit activities like walking, standing for long periods, rising from a chair, or lying on the affected side.

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.

• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• 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.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• 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.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.

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 CISSS DE LA MONTÉRÉGIE EST (SHEL), 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:

• For those whose needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity has made reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches seem like a distant memory, Marie-Michèle's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward feeling more stable and confident on their feet, especially on uneven surfaces. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Marie-Michèle frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of experiencing discomfort, back pain, or pelvic girdle pain during or after pregnancy. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets enjoying cycling or swimming regularly without pain or limitation and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event.
• Are you finding that that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees stops you from enjoying tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence? Marie-Michèle is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve being able to play actively with their children or grandchildren again through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

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 CISSS DE LA MONTÉRÉGIE EST (SHEL), situated in a central location within the Sorel-Tracy neighborhood of Sorel-Tracy, QC. This public healthcare facility offers accessible, patient-centered care and is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies. It is easily accessible via various public transit routes, making it convenient for patients to attend their appointments. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiotherapy Technologist can properly examine and treat the area.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to see a Physiotherapy Technologist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance plan before your first appointment.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or treatments, such as deep soft tissue work or joint mobilizations, might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if tissues are sensitive or inflamed. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made.

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 affected by injury, illness, or disability. It also aims to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

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. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if specific criteria are met. It is important to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

It’s common to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after physiotherapy treatments, especially when starting new exercises or in the initial stages. This typically subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant increase in pain, new neurological symptoms, or if soreness persists longer than expected, contact the clinic or your healthcare provider promptly for advice or reassessment.

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, make diagnoses, and develop treatment plans independently. A Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) holds a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They implement treatment plans designed by physiotherapists or physicians, assist with exercises, apply modalities, and report progress back to the supervising professional.

CISSS DE LA MONTÉRÉGIE EST (SHEL)
151, Rue George
Sorel-Tracy, QC J3P 1C8

Phone: (450) 746-5555

Marie-Michèle Gravel 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.