Nicolas St-Germain – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Nicolas St-Germain is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at PCN Lebourgneuf in Québec, QC. Nicolas is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). With a compassionate approach, Nicolas works closely with each individual to understand their unique needs, conditions, and goals, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel valued and empowered in their recovery journey.

Specializing in addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions, Nicolas’s practice encompasses everything from acute injuries such as sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. He has a particular focus on the assessment, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, tailoring care plans to help athletes of all levels—recreational or elite—return to their sport safely, optimize performance, and prevent future injuries. Nicolas’s care extends to patients across all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults, emphasizing holistic well-being and functional restoration.

Nicolas completed his degree in Physiotherapy and has gained valuable clinical experience, which he continuously enhances through ongoing professional development. His commitment to evidence-based practices ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments. With a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Sports Physiotherapy, Nicolas is dedicated to helping his community achieve better health outcomes through proactive and personalized physiotherapy care.

Nicolas St-Germain 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): Joint pain, aching, and functional limitation due to the progressive loss of cartilage, which physiotherapy can help manage through exercise, education, and pain relief strategies.

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize quality of life.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Physiotherapy to address residual joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and functional loss after an acute gout attack has subsided, or to help manage musculoskeletal impairments and tophi-related issues associated with chronic gout, always in conjunction with appropriate medical management for urate control.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Helping to manage the musculoskeletal aspects of psoriatic disease, working in conjunction with medical management to optimize your physical function and comfort.

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Muscular pain, trigger points, and tension headaches resulting from habitual poor posture, which can be addressed with postural re-education, exercises, and ergonomic advice.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Symptoms resulting from a whiplash injury, which can vary in severity (WAD Grades I-III) and duration, requiring a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for recovery.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Back or neck pain that often radiates into an arm or leg, potentially with numbness, tingling, weakness, or burning sensations, due to a spinal disc problem (herniation, protrusion, or bulge) compressing or irritating a nearby nerve root (radiculopathy). Sciatica specifically refers to radicular pain down the leg.

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

• Gait Analysis & Running/Walking Re-training: Evaluation of how you walk or run, with tailored advice from your Physiotherapist on footwear, technique modifications, and exercises to improve your form and prevent injury.
• Sports Performance Enhancement & Injury Prevention: Strategies and training programs to fine-tune your physical capabilities, improve sport-specific skills, and ensure you are well-prepared for the demands of your sport.
• Therapeutic & Athletic Taping (e.g., Kinesio, McConnell, Rigid): Utilizing different taping methods, chosen by your therapist based on your specific needs, to assist with pain relief, support injured areas, reduce swelling, or improve proprioceptive feedback.
• Orthopedic Bracing & Support Consultation/Fitting: Assessment by your Physiotherapist for and fitting of orthopedic braces or supports (custom or off-the-shelf) to stabilize joints, manage injuries (e.g., ligament tears, osteoarthritis, instability), protect healing tissues, and facilitate safe activity participation.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation & Management: Specialized and progressive physiotherapy care for athletes of all levels, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, sport-specific exercise, and safe, timely return-to-sport protocols.
• Custom Foot Orthotic Assessment & Prescription (if offered/certified): Providing individualized foot supports created from a precise mold of your feet to improve comfort, alignment, reduce pain, and enhance function during walking, running, or standing.

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 PCN Lebourgneuf, 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:

• It's truly rewarding for Nicolas to witness patients conquer clicking, popping, or pain in my jaw (TMJ issues) when I eat or talk and experience increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in simply enjoying leisurely daily walks around your neighborhood for fresh air again.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Nicolas's clinic, common concerns like an awkward gait or limping when I walk are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like playing your musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods.
• Living with my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly) doesn't have to be your norm. Nicolas applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards returning to their workout routine with greater confidence and better performance, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of working at your desk all day without developing back or neck stiffness.

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

Nicolas practices at PCN Lebourgneuf, situated in the heart of Québec's central neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near various community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care in a familiar and friendly environment. The facility is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring that patients from different parts of the city can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ typically does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients are usually responsible for payment or can use private insurance. However, certain services received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered, depending on eligibility. It is important for patients to verify their specific coverage with RAMQ and consult their private insurance plans, as many offer substantial coverage for physiotherapy in private clinics.

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 and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, and create treatment plans independently. They can also perform certain restricted activities if certified. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) has a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a Physiothérapeute or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises without diagnosing or creating treatment plans independently. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The required number of sessions varies based on individual factors such as the condition’s severity, duration, your treatment goals, and how well you adhere to home exercises. Nicolas will discuss an estimated treatment plan after your initial assessment and will continually re-evaluate your progress to adjust the plan as needed.

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

Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for ease of movement is recommended. For lower-body issues, shorts are helpful, while for upper-body concerns, a tank top or loose T-shirt is suitable so that Nicolas can properly examine and treat the affected area.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, most patients will receive a personalized home exercise program tailored to their specific needs. Consistently performing these exercises enhances progress and helps maintain improvements achieved during clinic visits.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy services directly without a referral, known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy requirements before your appointment.

What is PCN Lebourgneuf'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 without sufficient notice may incur a fee, such as 50% of the session cost or a set fee, to ensure fairness for all. Please contact the clinic as soon as possible if you need to modify your appointment.

PCN Lebourgneuf
777, Boulevard Lebourgneuf, suite 180
Québec, QC G2J 1C3

Phone: (418) 622-8555

Nicolas St-Germain 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.