Nathalie Bourque – Physiotherapy Technologist | Verdun, QC

Nathalie Bourque is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal in Verdun, QC, Nathalie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role involves 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. Nathalie primarily serves adult patients, addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal and functional concerns with empathy and professionalism.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy techniques, Nathalie has developed expertise in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Her clinical experience is complemented by her ongoing commitment to professional development and evidence-based practices, ensuring that her patients receive the most effective and safe interventions tailored to their individual needs.

Nathalie’s practice philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. She emphasizes the importance of preventative care and promotes long-term wellness through proactive physiotherapy strategies. Nathalie is fluent in both English and French, enabling her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population and provide compassionate support throughout the recovery journey.

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

Common Msk

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Difficulty with activities like reaching for objects, dressing, personal care, or carrying items due to underlying shoulder issues, which physiotherapy can help diagnose and treat.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Knee problems that limit your ability to stay active, perform daily tasks, or enjoy your hobbies, for which physiotherapy offers effective solutions.

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

• 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): 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: The use of moist heat packs, paraffin wax, or other heat sources by your Physiotherapist to relax muscles, increase local blood flow, reduce stiffness, alleviate chronic pain, and improve tissue extensibility.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Nathalie. 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 CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nathalie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Don't let loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury dictate what you can and cannot do. Nathalie offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at enhanced recovery from post-surgical procedures with fewer complications, helping you reclaim reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain and enjoy a more functional life.
• Living with managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease doesn't have to be your norm. Nathalie applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards effectively managing chronic pain and reclaiming an active lifestyle, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event.
• At Nathalie's physiotherapy practice, individuals with my child walking on their toes most of the time are guided towards successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as returning to a specific physical hobby you had to give up due to pain.

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

Nathalie practices at CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, situated in a central clinic within the Verdun neighborhood of Montreal. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access a comprehensive range of health resources. The clinic is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring that patients from the surrounding areas can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Nathalie may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It’s a key part of helping your body move better.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your initial physiotherapy appointment is a comprehensive assessment. Nathalie will start by discussing your medical history, current symptoms or injury details, your concerns, and your goals for therapy. This is followed by a thorough physical examination, evaluating your range of motion, strength, posture, balance, and movement patterns, along with special tests relevant to your condition. Based on these findings, she will provide a diagnosis, discuss a personalized treatment plan, and often initiate some initial treatment or provide education and a home exercise program to get you started.

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

To ensure your first appointment runs smoothly, consider bringing your health card, any doctor’s referral letter (if applicable), results of relevant imaging tests, a list of current medications, and your extended health benefits information (insurance card/policy number) if available for direct billing. Wearing comfortable clothes is also recommended.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is advisable to verify eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage of private physiotherapy services.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It’s recommended to check your insurance policy before your appointment.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute holds a university master’s degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and perform certain restricted activities. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress without diagnosing or independently creating treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-L'Île-de-Montréal
4000, Boulevard Lasalle
Verdun, QC H4G 2A3

Phone: (514) 362-1000

Nathalie Bourque 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.