Michele Auclair – Physiotherapist | Rimouski, QC

Michele Auclair is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CISSS du Bas-St-Laurent (CHR Rimouski) in Rimouski, QC, Michele is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Michele's approach emphasizes understanding each individual's unique needs and tailoring treatment plans to promote optimal recovery and well-being. With a compassionate and community-focused mindset, Michele strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel supported and empowered throughout their healing journey.

As a physiothérapeute, Michele addresses a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Michele also specializes in assisting individuals recovering from neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Serving patients of all ages—from infants and young children to adults and seniors—Michele is dedicated to improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life for everyone in the community.

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

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, resulting in a range of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties (e.g., 'brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

Post Surgical

• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.
• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Comprehensive post-operative recovery guidance following knee replacement, including exercises, manual therapy, and education to ensure you achieve your best possible function.

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Managing a variety of acute and chronic conditions of the hand and wrist, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent long-term disability.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Addressing the inflammation, pain, and restricted movement associated with stenosing tenosynovitis of the finger or thumb.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• 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.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Specific training programs to enhance your sense of body position, improve your reaction times to unexpected balance disturbances, and build confidence in your ability to move safely in various environments.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Michele. 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 (CHR Rimouski), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Michele frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• With Michele's help, managing sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica to achieve increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder pain.
• Tired of recovering my strength and mobility after a knee or hip replacement surgery interfering with spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain? Michele uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement and regain your freedom of movement.
• For those whose pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) has made tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence seem like a distant memory, Michele's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Michele practices at the CISSS du Bas-St-Laurent (CHR Rimouski), situated in a modern clinic located in the heart of the central Rimouski neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access the care they need. The clinic is accessible via various public transit routes, ensuring ease of reach for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiothérapeute can properly examine and treat the area.

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).

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiothérapeute to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly, without a referral from a doctor, thanks to the province's direct access regulations. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It's advisable to check your insurance policy details before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

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

In general, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly in a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private outpatient physiotherapy typically is not covered by RAMQ. Always verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause temporary soreness, it should not be excessively painful. Your Physiothérapeute will tailor treatments to your comfort level and discuss sensations you might experience. Constant communication is important to ensure a safe and effective session.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on techniques performed by your Physiothérapeute to assess and treat joints, muscles, and nerves. These techniques aim to decrease pain, improve mobility, and restore function through joint mobilizations, soft tissue release, and manipulations when appropriate and within their scope of practice.

CISSS du Bas-St-Laurent (CHR Rimouski)
150, Avenue Rouleau
Rimouski, QC G5L 5T1

Phone: (418) 724-3000

Michele Auclair 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.