Mélissa Lacoursière – Physiotherapist | Terrebonne, QC

Mélissa Lacoursière is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Polyclinique médicale Pierre-Legardeur in Terrebonne, QC. Mélissa is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach emphasizes a compassionate understanding of each individual's unique needs, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered throughout their healing journey.

Specializing in addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions, Mélissa's expertise encompasses everything from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. She also assists individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing their quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Mélissa's holistic approach ensures that patients of all ages, from infants and young children to adults and seniors, receive tailored interventions designed to promote optimal recovery and well-being.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Mélissa has developed skills and a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Neurological Physiotherapy. Her practice philosophy is rooted in evidence-based techniques, continuous learning, and empowering patients through education about their conditions and self-management strategies. Mélissa is fluent in both French and English, enabling her to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations in the Terrebonne community.

Mélissa Lacoursière 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): Pain, swelling, clicking, locking, or instability in or around the knee joint from various causes like ligament sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL), meniscal tears (managed conservatively), or patellofemoral (kneecap) pain.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Aching, soreness, or sharp pain experienced in the neck, which may include muscle spasms, trigger points, or reduced flexibility.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.

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.

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort, often accompanied by headaches or 'brain fog', after a sudden jerking motion of the head, such as in a rear-end collision.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Symptoms of nerve compression originating from the spine, such as a 'slipped disc' or 'pinched nerve', causing radiating pain, altered sensation, or muscle weakness in a limb.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Often age-related changes leading to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs with walking (neurogenic claudication in lumbar stenosis) or in the arms/hands (cervical stenosis).

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Mélissa 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
• 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.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Effective therapy for various inner ear and balance disorders, including BPPV, vestibular neuritis/labyrinthitis, unilateral or bilateral vestibular hypofunction, Meniere's disease (symptom management), and persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD).

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

• Patients struggling with that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit can find dedicated and compassionate support from Mélissa. The therapeutic focus is squarely on developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as playing your musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods.
• Mélissa believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If recovering from a burn and needing help with scar mobility and movement is hindering your ability to maintain your balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails, a personalized plan focusing on a smoother and stronger postpartum recovery can make all the difference.
• Struggling with the frustration of sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica? Mélissa develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved ability to lift and carry objects correctly and safely. This is key to helping you get back to doing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching your back with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Mélissa practices at Polyclinique médicale Pierre-Legardeur, situated in the Terrebonne West (Near Laval border) neighborhood of Terrebonne. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Théâtre du Vieux-Terrebonne and is accessible via exo (Secteur Terrebonne-Mascouche). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Mélissa may use techniques such as joint mobilizations, soft tissue massage, sustained pressures, and joint manipulations to help reduce pain, increase joint mobility, relax tight muscles, and improve nerve function. These approaches are essential for restoring optimal movement and alleviating discomfort.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a vital role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Mélissa can identify underlying risk factors like muscle imbalances, poor posture, or movement patterns. Through targeted exercises, education on proper biomechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modifications, physiotherapy helps reduce your risk of initial injury, re-injury, and chronic conditions, supporting your long-term health.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. It is recommended that you contact your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand your specific coverage, including annual maximums, per-visit limits, co-payments, and whether a referral is required. We can often bill your insurer directly if your plan permits, or provide official receipts for you to submit for reimbursement. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment.

What is the difference between a Physiotherapist (Physiothérapeute) and a Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) in Quebec?

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec holds a master's level university degree, granting autonomy to assess, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments, assisting physiotherapists or physicians by implementing treatment plans, supporting exercises, and reporting progress.

Does Polyclinique médicale Pierre-Legardeur offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, the 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. If direct billing is not available for your plan, we will provide detailed receipts for you to submit for reimbursement. We recommend confirming your coverage specifics with your insurer before your appointment.

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

No, in Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a referral (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes, so it is advisable to check your insurance policy beforehand.

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

Generally, physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Limited coverage may be available through specific programs for certain populations, such as seniors or low-income individuals, but most outpatient physiotherapy in private clinics is not covered. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

Polyclinique médicale Pierre-Legardeur
1000, Montée des Pionniers, # 300
Terrebonne, QC J6V 1S8

Phone: (450) 657-1313

Mélissa Lacoursière 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.