Marylou Bélanger – Physiotherapy Technologist | Rivière-du-Loup, QC

Marylou Bélanger is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées in Rivière-du-Loup, QC, Marylou is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her role involves 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. Marylou’s approach emphasizes personalized care, ensuring each patient receives tailored interventions aimed at restoring mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing overall well-being.

With a strong foundation in physiotherapy technology, Marylou has developed skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Her clinical experience allows her to effectively evaluate patient progress and adapt treatments accordingly. She is especially attentive to the needs of senior patients, helping them regain independence and maintain their quality of life through targeted physiotherapy interventions.

Marylou believes in a philosophy of evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care possible. She strives to empower her patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies, fostering long-term health benefits. Marylou is fluent in French, ensuring effective communication and comfort for her French-speaking patients.

Marylou Bélanger provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Common Msk

• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Common injuries related to physical activity, sports participation, accidental falls, or overuse from daily or work-related tasks.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Injury to muscle tissue that limits your strength, range of motion, and ability to perform specific movements or activities, requiring careful rehabilitation.

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

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• 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.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• 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.
• 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.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: The use of moist heat packs, paraffin wax, or other heat sources by your Physiotherapist to relax muscles, increase local blood flow, reduce stiffness, alleviate chronic pain, and improve tissue extensibility.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Marylou. 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 du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Marylou frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• When feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing playing your musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods, physiotherapy with Marylou can help you work towards being able to climb stairs with ease and confidence once again. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Marylou's clinic, common concerns like widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like playing actively and roughhousing with your young kids or grandkids.
• Many find that one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain significantly impacts their ability to hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter. Marylou helps patients target less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.

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

Marylou practices at the CISSS du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées, situated in a central Rivière-du-Loup clinic in the neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, providing convenient transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally access a Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral might not be legally required to *see* a Phys. T., some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your appointment to ensure coverage.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., RAMQ card), any relevant medical reports such as doctor’s referral notes or recent imaging, a list of current medications, and your insurance information if applicable. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement, and be prepared to discuss your medical history and current concerns with Marylou.

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. Coverage may be available if the treatment occurs within a hospital or CLSC setting and meets specific criteria. Most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics is paid out-of-pocket or through private insurance. It is recommended to verify your coverage details with RAMQ and your insurance provider beforehand.

How can I book an appointment at CISSS du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées?

You can book an appointment by calling the clinic directly at (418) 551-2466 during business hours. Many practitioners also offer online booking via the clinic's website. Our friendly staff will assist in scheduling a suitable time with the appropriate physiotherapist for your needs.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques used by physiotherapists to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This includes joint mobilization and manipulation, soft tissue mobilization such as massage and trigger point release, and neural mobilization techniques. The goal is to reduce pain, restore joint mobility, and promote tissue healing.

What is CISSS du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées's cancellation policy?

We understand schedules can change unexpectedly. To accommodate all patients effectively, we request at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. A fee may be charged for late cancellations or no-shows. Please contact the clinic promptly if you need to make changes.

What is the difference between a Physiotherapist and a Physiotherapy Technologist in Quebec?

A Physiotherapist holds a university master's degree and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnose, and create treatment plans independently. A Physiotherapy Technologist, on the other hand, holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or doctor, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises without diagnosing or establishing independent treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

CISSS du Bas St-Laurent - Installation CHRGP/CLSC Rivières et Marées
75, Rue Saint-Henri
Rivière-du-Loup, QC G5R 2A4

Phone: (418) 551-2466

Marylou Bélanger 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.