Michael Desrosiers – Physiotherapist | Rimouski, QC

Michael Desrosiers is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Clinique physio-ergo Sylvain Trudel in Rimouski, QC. He is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Michael’s approach emphasizes comprehensive assessment, personalized treatment plans, and evidence-based interventions to promote optimal recovery and functional improvement. His focus encompasses addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions, from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and post-operative rehabilitation. Michael has developed specialized expertise in the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, tailoring care to help athletes of all levels—recreational to elite—return safely to their sport, enhance performance, and prevent future issues.

With a solid educational background and extensive clinical experience, Michael completed his degree in Physiotherapy. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development, staying current with the latest evidence-based practices. His particular interests lie in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Sports Physiotherapy, allowing him to offer targeted and effective interventions for diverse patient needs. Michael’s commitment to excellence is reflected in his personalized, collaborative approach, working closely with patients to set realistic goals and achieve meaningful outcomes.

Michael believes in fostering a collaborative relationship with his patients, emphasizing education and preventative care to support long-term wellness. He promotes a proactive approach to physiotherapy, empowering individuals through clear communication and practical strategies for self-management. Fluent in both English and French, Michael is able to effectively communicate with a diverse patient population, ensuring a comfortable and understanding environment for all.

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

Post Surgical

• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): The crucial rehabilitation phase following total or partial knee replacement surgery, with physiotherapy focusing on restoring range of motion, building strength, improving balance, managing pain and swelling, and enabling functional mobility (e.g., walking, stairs, getting in/out of a car).
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Helping you manage pain, improve scar mobility, and regain optimal strength and range of motion in a limb following fracture fixation surgery.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

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.

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

• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Therapeutic & Athletic Taping (e.g., Kinesio, McConnell, Rigid): Application of various supportive and therapeutic taping techniques (e.g., elastic Kinesio tape for proprioception and muscle facilitation, McConnell taping for patellar tracking, rigid athletic tape for joint support) to protect joints, support muscles, reduce pain, manage swelling, or improve movement patterns.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Using controlled isometric and isotonic muscle contractions, as directed by your Physiotherapist, to address joint restrictions and muscle imbalances effectively.
• Orthopedic Bracing & Support Consultation/Fitting: Assessment by your Physiotherapist for and fitting of orthopedic braces or supports (custom or off-the-shelf) to stabilize joints, manage injuries (e.g., ligament tears, osteoarthritis, instability), protect healing tissues, and facilitate safe activity participation.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
• Custom Foot Orthotic Assessment & Prescription (if offered/certified): Prescription, casting or 3D scanning, and fitting of custom orthotics designed to correct biomechanical faults, provide support, improve shock absorption, and address foot, ankle, knee, hip, or back pain related to your foot posture and function.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Michael. 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 Clinique physio-ergo Sylvain Trudel, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Michael frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Michael believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk is hindering your ability to operate machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work, a personalized plan focusing on feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities can make all the difference.
• Patients often come to Michael feeling defeated by soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations and resuming hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Living with working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery doesn't have to be your norm. Michael applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards achieving their specific mobility goals, whether big or small, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun.

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

Michael practices at Clinique physio-ergo Sylvain Trudel, situated in a central neighborhood of Rimouski. The clinic is conveniently located within a modern facility that is easily accessible to the local community, with proximity to various community services and pharmacies. The clinic is well-connected via local public transit routes, making it easy for patients to attend their appointments. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiothérapeute uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services performed in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC (if meeting their criteria) might be covered, but private clinic physiotherapy is usually not. It is advisable to verify eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for coverage details.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at Clinique physio-ergo Sylvain Trudel treat?

Our Physiothérapeutes treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues like back and neck pain, joint problems such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery, sports injuries like tendinitis, bursitis, and ligament sprains, as well as nerve pain. They also address conditions like concussions, TMJ disorders, and pelvic health concerns. Treatments often involve manual therapy, therapeutic taping, exercise prescription, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a physician's referral, known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider before your appointment to confirm their requirements.

Clinique physio-ergo Sylvain Trudel
333, Avenue de la Cathédrale
Rimouski, QC G5L 5J5

Phone: (418) 721-0027

Michael Desrosiers 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.