Melanie Hamel – Physiotherapy Technologist | Sherbrooke, QC

Melanie Hamel is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at Centre de réadaptation Estrie in Sherbrooke, QC, Melanie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She plays a vital role in assisting with 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 primarily serves adult patients, helping them regain mobility, reduce pain, and enhance their overall well-being through personalized physiotherapy interventions.

With a solid educational background and practical experience, Melanie Hamel completed her degree in Physiotherapy. She has developed a strong skill set in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Melanie is committed to ongoing professional development and staying current with evidence-based physiotherapy practices, ensuring her patients receive the most effective and safe treatments tailored to their individual needs.

Melanie's practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. She emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice and continuous learning to provide the highest standard of care. Melanie believes in empowering her patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies, fostering lasting results. She is fluent in French, facilitating effective communication with her diverse patient population.

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

Common Msk

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Common ankle injuries causing acute pain, persistent swelling, and instability, significantly affecting your ability to walk, run, or participate in sports.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): A broad term for common injuries affecting muscles, tendons (tendinitis/tendinopathy), ligaments (sprains), joint capsules (capsulitis), and bursae (bursitis), leading to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Neck problems that interfere with your sleep quality, ability to work comfortably (especially at a desk), or perform everyday tasks without pain.
• 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.

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: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): A common physiotherapy treatment for acute injuries, designed to help numb pain, decrease bleeding into the tissues, and minimize secondary hypoxic injury.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.

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 Centre de réadaptation Estrie, 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:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit? Melanie works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of seeing their child achieve developmental milestones with greater ease (for pediatric physio). This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• It's truly rewarding for Melanie to witness patients conquer my baby/child having trouble with their motor skills, like delayed rolling, sitting or walking and experience increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in getting back to golfing 18 holes without your back acting up again.
• Tired of general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden interfering with getting on and off the floor with ease? Melanie uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a reduction in nerve-related symptoms like tingling or numbness and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Melanie practices at the Centre de réadaptation Estrie, situated in the Fleurimont East neighborhood of Sherbrooke. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Downtown Sherbrooke and is easily accessible via the Société de transport de Sherbrooke (STS). 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 access a Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) directly without a physician's referral, as part of the public healthcare system's emphasis on direct access physiotherapy. While a referral is not usually required to *see* a Phys. T., some private or extended health insurance plans may still require a doctor’s note for reimbursement purposes. Patients are advised to verify the specific requirements of their insurance plans before their first appointment.

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).

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

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

Is there parking available at or near Centre de réadaptation Estrie?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Alternatively, metered street parking is generally available on nearby streets, and there is a paid public parkade located one block east of the clinic. Always check signage for time restrictions and parking rules.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. Physiotherapy not only addresses current injuries but also emphasizes prevention. Melanie can assess your movement patterns, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances, and develop a personalized exercise and education plan to reduce the risk of future injuries or pain episodes. This proactive approach benefits athletes, active individuals, and those with physically demanding jobs.

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 typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Some care within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if specific criteria are met, but private outpatient physiotherapy usually is not. Patients are encouraged to verify their coverage with RAMQ and their private insurance providers, as many plans offer substantial physiotherapy benefits.

Centre de réadaptation Estrie
300, Rue King E, # 200
Sherbrooke, QC J1G 1B1

Phone: (819) 346-8411

Melanie Hamel 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.