Nicholas Willett – Physiotherapist | Maria, QC

Nicholas Willett is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CISSS de la Gaspésie-RLS de la Baie des Chaleurs in Maria, QC, Nicholas is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. His practice emphasizes a comprehensive approach to physiotherapy, addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions with evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual. Nicholas’s goal is to facilitate recovery, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being for his patients through personalized treatment plans that respect their unique needs and lifestyles.

Nicholas's role extends beyond immediate injury management to include injury prevention and long-term wellness strategies. He works closely with adults and seniors, helping them regain function after injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their quality of life. Whether dealing with post-operative rehabilitation, arthritis, neurological conditions such as stroke or Parkinson’s Disease, or general musculoskeletal issues, Nicholas aims to empower his patients with the knowledge and tools needed for sustained health and activity. His compassionate approach ensures that patients feel supported and informed throughout their rehabilitation journey.

Educated with a strong foundation in physiotherapy principles, Nicholas completed his degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience across various settings. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development, staying current with the latest research and techniques, particularly in Orthopedic, Musculoskeletal, and Neurological Physiotherapy. Nicholas’s practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care, evidence-based treatments, and empowering patients through education and self-management strategies. Fluent in both English and French, Nicholas is able to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population, ensuring clear understanding and personalized care.

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

Vestibular Balance

• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): A chronic functional dizziness disorder characterized by persistent sensations of dizziness, unsteadiness, or non-spinning vertigo (often lasting for 3 months or more), typically exacerbated by upright posture, active or passive motion, or exposure to complex or moving visual environments (e.g., busy supermarkets, scrolling on a screen). Often follows an acute vestibular event, medical illness, or period of psychological distress.
• General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk: Physiotherapy aimed at improving your balance, coordination, lower limb strength, reaction time, and confidence to reduce your risk of falling and enhance safe mobility in your home and community.
• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for inner ear balance problems, involving customized exercises that promote central nervous system compensation and adaptation to the weakened vestibular input.
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Resolving the spinning sensations caused by BPPV quickly and effectively through targeted canalith repositioning techniques, often providing immediate relief.

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.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.

Peripheral Nerve

• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Physiotherapy focuses on improving balance, strength, sensation (where possible), reducing fall risk, managing pain, and providing education on foot care (especially for diabetic neuropathy) and adaptive strategies.
• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Addressing conditions affecting nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, aiming to relieve pressure on the nerve, reduce inflammation, restore normal nerve function, and alleviate symptoms.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Nicholas 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.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Targeted exercises and strategies designed by your Physiotherapist to improve your stability, coordination, lower limb strength, and body awareness (proprioception), thereby reducing your risk of falls, particularly beneficial for older adults or individuals with balance impairments.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: Detailed physical assessment of your joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of your symptoms and guide your treatment.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Detailed analysis of your static and dynamic posture, with tailored exercises, stretches, and advice to help you improve alignment and reduce strain on your body.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Teaching you essential strategies and exercises to manage your symptoms independently, accelerate recovery, and prevent future problems.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Nicholas. 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 la Gaspésie-RLS de la Baie des Chaleurs, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nicholas frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Discover how physiotherapy with Nicholas can help you move beyond needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity. The focus is on reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as dancing the night away at social events and family celebrations.
• Many find that trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain significantly impacts their ability to sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort. Nicholas helps patients target a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• Don't let general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden dictate what you can and cannot do. Nicholas offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at improved circulation and tissue healing, helping you reclaim attending and enjoying your children's or grandchildren's sporting events and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Nicholas practices at the CISSS de la Gaspésie-RLS de la Baie des Chaleurs, situated in a modern clinic located in the central part of Maria, QC. The clinic is conveniently positioned within the Maria community, allowing easy access for residents and visitors alike. The facility is part of a public healthcare network, ensuring that patients benefit from comprehensive and accessible services. It is close to various community resources, including local pharmacies and other health services, making it a convenient choice for ongoing care. The clinic is accessible via local public transit routes, providing reliable transportation options for patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not provide coverage for physiotherapy services performed in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance for coverage. Some care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is important to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans, as many extended health benefits include physiotherapy coverage.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly through a process called 'direct access,' meaning a referral from a doctor is not legally required to see a physiotherapist. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a physician's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession focused on restoring and maintaining movement, function, and overall well-being. It involves personalized assessments and treatments, including exercises, manual therapy, and education, aimed at alleviating pain, improving mobility, and preventing future injuries. Whether you are recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or seeking to optimize your physical health, physiotherapy can support you in achieving your goals.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec holds a university master's degree and is authorized to diagnose, assess, and create treatment plans. They are autonomous healthcare professionals. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, primarily applying treatments and guiding exercises without diagnosing or creating treatment plans independently. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, physiotherapy plays a vital role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain by identifying risk factors such as muscle imbalances or poor movement patterns. Targeted exercises, education on body mechanics, and activity modifications can reduce your risk of injury and help maintain long-term musculoskeletal health.

CISSS de la Gaspésie-RLS de la Baie des Chaleurs
419, Boulevard Perron
Maria, QC G0C 1Y0

Phone: (418) 759-3443

Nicholas Willett 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.