Nathalie Thibault – Physiotherapy Technologist | Matane, QC

Nathalie Thibault is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS DE MATANE in Matane, QC, Nathalie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She specializes 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. Nathalie's approach emphasizes a performance-oriented, active methodology designed to help adults and seniors regain strength, mobility, and confidence in their daily activities.

With a solid background in physiotherapy technology, Nathalie has developed a keen expertise in areas such as therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. She continually updates her skills through professional development to incorporate evidence-based practices into her care. Nathalie’s clinical experience enables her to adapt treatments to each individual's unique needs, focusing on optimizing outcomes and promoting long-term health and performance.

Her practice philosophy revolves around a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Nathalie is dedicated to a patient-centered model of care, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and setting realistic, motivating goals. She is fluent in French, ensuring clear communication and personalized support for her diverse patient community.

Nathalie Thibault 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.
• 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.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.

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: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Graded exercise programs designed to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, strength, and functional capacity, especially beneficial after illness, surgery, or periods of prolonged inactivity.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.

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 CISSS DE MATANE, 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:

• Patients struggling with an awkward gait or limping when I walk can find dedicated and compassionate support from Nathalie. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving moving more freely and with greater agility than they have in years, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation.
• Are you finding that awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I’m walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) stops you from enjoying getting back to your regular, consistent gym workouts? Nathalie is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.
• Nathalie frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets achieving personal fitness goals that once seemed out of reach and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.

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

Nathalie practices at CISSS DE MATANE, situated in a modern clinic in the central Matane neighborhood of Matane, QC. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services, pharmacies, and other essential amenities. It is easily accessible via multiple public transit routes, making it simple for patients to reach their appointments. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

How can I book an appointment at CISSS DE MATANE?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (418) 562-3135 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

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

Patients in QC can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, which is known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to *see* a Physiotherapy Technologist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first visit.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or mild symptoms after physiotherapy, especially at the beginning or when starting new exercises. Usually, this subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience severe or persistent pain, new neurological symptoms, or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, contact Nathalie or the clinic promptly. They can provide guidance, adjust your treatment plan, or arrange further assessment if necessary.

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

In QC, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Some coverage may be available if the physiotherapy is received in a hospital or CLSC meeting specific criteria. It is important to verify your coverage with RAMQ and your private insurer prior to treatment.

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

A Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnose, and establish treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises without diagnosing or creating treatment plans independently. Both are regulated by the OPPQ.

What is CISSS DE MATANE's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand schedules can change unexpectedly. To accommodate all patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur a fee, typically 50% of the service cost or a set amount. Please contact the clinic as soon as possible if you need to modify your appointment.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapy Technologists at CISSS DE MATANE treat?

Our Physiotherapy Technologists 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, and nerve pain. They also handle conditions requiring therapeutic modalities like ultrasound and manual therapy, as well as patients needing strength and conditioning programs to support rehabilitation or performance enhancement.

CISSS DE MATANE
333, Rue Thibault
Matane, QC G4W 2W5

Phone: (418) 562-3135

Nathalie Thibault 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.