Nicolas Bélair – Physiotherapist | Jonquière, QC

Nicolas Bélair is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at CIUSSS de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean in Jonquière, QC. He is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Nicolas specializes in addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. His expertise encompasses everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Nicolas offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by issues within the inner ear or central vestibular system. His goal is to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and lower the risk of falls, helping his patients regain confidence in their movement and independence.

With a solid educational foundation, Nicolas Bélair completed his degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels his ongoing commitment to evidence-based practices. He has developed particular skills and interests in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. Nicolas actively pursues continuous professional development, ensuring his treatments incorporate the latest advancements and research in physiotherapy. His approach is tailored to each individual, emphasizing functional improvement and injury prevention to support active, healthy lifestyles.

Promoting preventative care and long-term wellness, Nicolas adopts a proactive, patient-centered approach that actively involves individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. He believes in fostering a collaborative relationship with his patients, working together to achieve their movement and functional objectives. Nicolas is fluent in both French and English, enabling him to effectively communicate with a diverse range of patients and ensure clarity and comfort throughout the rehabilitation process.

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

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Pain, tenderness, swelling, and dysfunction in a tendon (the strong cords that attach muscles to bones) due to overuse, repetitive strain, injury, or degeneration. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon (knee), rotator cuff (shoulder), or elbow (tennis/golfer's elbow).
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.

Neurological

• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Specialized physiotherapy exercises and movement strategies (e.g., LSVT BIG® principles, amplitude-based training, cueing techniques) to improve balance, gait (walking), posture, flexibility, coordination, and overall motor function in individuals with Parkinson's Disease.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Focusing on restoring movement, balance, and independence after a traumatic or acquired brain injury through evidence-based physiotherapy approaches.
• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy aimed at improving mobility (e.g., walking, transfers), balance, strength, coordination, sensation, and daily function (e.g., dressing, self-care) after a stroke (cerebrovascular accident).

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. Nicolas can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Rehabilitation for Age-Related Deconditioning & Loss of Autonomy: Comprehensive support for improving performance in activities of daily living (e.g., dressing, bathing, transferring, cooking) and rebuilding physical confidence and independence in older adults.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Baseline concussion testing (if offered by the clinic/practitioner) and evidence-based post-injury management to ensure a safe and effective recovery from mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI).
• Geriatric Physiotherapy & Seniors' Health: Specialized physiotherapy programs focused on addressing the unique physical needs of older adults, aiming to improve mobility, strength, balance, flexibility, manage age-related conditions (e.g., osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, sarcopenia), and reduce the risk of falls.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Helping you overcome dizziness, vertigo, and unsteadiness with targeted vestibular exercises and strategies, enabling you to return to daily activities with greater stability and comfort.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Nicolas. 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 de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nicolas frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• The path to recovery from trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury and achieving effectively managing chronic pain and reclaiming an active lifestyle for travelling more comfortably on planes, trains, or in cars for longer durations often starts with expert guidance. Nicolas, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Many find that that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity significantly impacts their ability to resuming your weightlifting routine at the gym safely. Nicolas helps patients target running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• The journey to feeling more energetic and less weighed down by physical discomfort when faced with persistent one leg feeling shorter than the other, causing hip or back pain is made smoother and more effective with Nicolas's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun.

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

Nicolas practices at the CIUSSS de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, situated within a modern clinic located in the central Jonquière neighborhood of Jonquière. This Centre de recherche (milieu privé) facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive healthcare in a comfortable environment. The clinic is accessible via local public transit routes, ensuring ease of reach for those using public transportation. 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 cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered under specific circumstances, but private clinic physiotherapy is typically not included. It is essential to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance provider for coverage details.

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 perform assessments, diagnose, and create treatment plans independently. They can also perform certain restricted activities with specific attestations. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises but does not diagnose or independently plan treatments. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

How can I book an appointment at CIUSSS de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean?

You can schedule an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (418) 695-7777 during business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer online booking through our website. Our friendly reception team will assist you in finding a suitable time with the appropriate physiotherapist for your needs.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at CIUSSS de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean treat?

Our physiotherapists treat a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions, including sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, arthritis, balance disorders, and neurological conditions like stroke or Parkinson's disease. They also address issues such as back and neck pain, joint problems, and nerve pain, often utilizing services like balance training, ultrasound therapy, and patient education to help patients achieve their functional goals.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy helps you move better and manage pain effectively. Whether recovering from an injury, managing chronic conditions, or seeking to improve your physical performance, Nicolas develops personalized treatment plans with exercises, manual therapy, and practical advice to support your active lifestyle and well-being.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a physician’s note for reimbursement. It is advisable to check your insurance requirements before your first appointment.

I have private health insurance. How does that work with physiotherapy payments?

Many private insurance plans offer coverage for physiotherapy services. We recommend contacting your insurer before your appointment to understand your coverage limits, co-payments, and whether direct billing is available. If your plan allows, we can often bill your insurer directly, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your first visit.

CIUSSS de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
2230, Rue de l'hôpital
Jonquière, QC G7X 7X2

Phone: (418) 695-7777

Nicolas Bélair 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.