Melanie Carriere – Physiotherapy Technologist | Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, QC

Melanie Carriere is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS Montérégie - CLSC Valleyfield in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, QC, Melanie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes 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. Melanie's focus is on helping adults and seniors regain strength, mobility, and confidence to participate fully in their active lifestyles.

With a solid educational foundation, Melanie Carriere completed her diploma in Physiotherapy Technology and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her commitment to ongoing professional development. She is dedicated to evidence-based practices, developing specialized skills such as therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Melanie's experience allows her to tailor her interventions to match each patient's unique needs, ensuring effective and efficient progress toward their health and performance goals.

Her practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Melanie believes in empowering her patients through clear education about their conditions and providing practical self-management strategies that promote lasting results. Fluent in French, Melanie communicates effectively with her diverse patient base to foster understanding, motivation, and adherence to their personalized rehabilitation plans.

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

Common Msk

• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Common knee complaints that can affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, squat, run, or participate in sports, addressed through a tailored physiotherapy program.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Hip problems that interfere with your mobility, sleep, and daily comfort, which can be effectively managed with physiotherapy interventions.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.

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

• 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.
• 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 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: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from post-operative stiffness and weakness that's slowing down my recovery and achieved getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations under the skilled care of Melanie. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue or breathlessness with a new lease on life.
• At Melanie's physiotherapy practice, individuals with a noticeable curve in my child's spine or uneven shoulders (scoliosis concerns) are guided towards getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation.
• Don't let difficulty getting out of a chair or bed due to stiffness or pain dictate what you can and cannot do. Melanie offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at better managing flare-ups with personalized strategies and feeling more in control of their symptoms, helping you reclaim spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Melanie practices at CISSS Montérégie - CLSC Valleyfield, a centrally located healthcare facility in the Salaberry-de-Valleyfield neighborhood of Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, QC. The clinic is situated within a public healthcare setting that offers easy access to community services and pharmacies. It is conveniently accessible via local public transit routes, making it simple for patients to reach their appointments. 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 typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) directly without a physician's referral, as part of the province's direct access policy. However, while a referral is not legally required to consult Melanie, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. Patients are advised to verify their insurance policy's specific requirements before their first appointment to ensure coverage.

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 specific treatments (like deep soft tissue work, joint mobilization, or certain exercises) might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if the tissues being treated are sensitive, inflamed, or very stiff. However, Melanie will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform her immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

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 and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, and create treatment plans independently. A Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress without diagnosing or independently planning treatments. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Does CISSS Montérégie - CLSC Valleyfield offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, our clinic offers direct billing for most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, and Blue Cross. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. We recommend confirming coverage specifics, including any annual maximums or deductibles, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary. Patients are responsible for any portion not covered by their insurance.

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 is typically available when care is received directly within a public hospital or CLSC, provided specific eligibility criteria are met. For outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics, patients usually pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. It is important to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance coverage, as many plans offer significant physiotherapy benefits.

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

Some temporary soreness after treatment can be normal, similar to after a workout. However, if pain worsens significantly, if new concerning symptoms develop, or if discomfort persists beyond a couple of days, please contact Melanie promptly. She will advise on appropriate steps and may adjust your treatment plan to ensure your safety and comfort.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your initial session involves a comprehensive assessment. Melanie will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and goals. She will then perform a physical examination, including evaluating your range of motion, strength, posture, and movement patterns. Based on her findings, she will provide a clinical impression, discuss a personalized treatment plan, and often initiate some initial therapy or provide educational resources and exercises to begin your recovery journey.

CISSS Montérégie - CLSC Valleyfield
71, Rue Maden, # 200
Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, QC J6S 3V4

Phone: (450) 371-0143

Melanie Carriere 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.