Nicole Bouchard – Physiotherapy Technologist | Montréal, QC

Nicole Bouchard is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CHSLD BIERMANS in Montréal, QC, Nicole 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. Nicole’s approach emphasizes a performance and athletic-oriented perspective, helping active individuals and athletes regain strength, optimize movement, and enhance overall performance.

Nicole completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing professional development. She is dedicated to evidence-based physiotherapy practices and has developed particular skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Her commitment ensures that each patient receives tailored care that respects their unique needs and goals, especially those seeking to improve athletic performance or recover from sports-related injuries.

Her practice philosophy centers on a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Nicole believes in empowering her patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. She is fluent in English and French, allowing her to communicate effectively with a diverse range of patients and ensure comprehensive understanding throughout their rehabilitation journey.

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

Common Msk

• Muscle Strains and Tears: Common injuries in active individuals, athletes, or resulting from accidents, leading to localized pain, swelling, bruising, and weakness in the affected muscle (e.g., hamstring, calf, quadriceps, groin, rotator cuff).
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Aching, burning, sharp pain, or a 'pins and needles' sensation in the wrist, thumb, or hand region, sometimes waking you at night.

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

• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): A common physiotherapy treatment for acute injuries, designed to help numb pain, decrease bleeding into the tissues, and minimize secondary hypoxic injury.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• 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.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Nicole. 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 CHSLD BIERMANS, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nicole frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients often come to Nicole feeling defeated by feeling generally stiff, achy, and less mobile than I used to be. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain and resuming swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• The path to recovery from pain in my shins when I try to run or be active (shin splints) and achieving improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community for participating fully in your martial arts practice, including sparring often starts with expert guidance. Nicole, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• Don't let post-operative stiffness and weakness that’s slowing down my recovery dictate what you can and cannot do. Nicole offers physiotherapy solutions aimed at a more comfortable and physically manageable pregnancy experience, helping you reclaim being able to carry your baby or toddler without straining your back or arms and enjoy a more functional life.

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

Nicole practices at CHSLD BIERMANS, located in the central Montréal neighborhood of Montréal. This public healthcare facility is conveniently situated near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is accessible via local public transit routes, ensuring ease of reach for those using buses or metro services. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is CHSLD BIERMANS's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee equivalent to 50% of the service cost or a set amount like $50 may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments (no-shows) without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, which is known as direct access. However, while a doctor's referral may not be legally required to *see* a Physiotherapy Technologist, some private or extended health insurance plans do require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your insurance policy prior to your first appointment.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can perform certain advanced procedures with additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They assist by implementing treatment plans, guiding exercises, applying modalities, and reporting back to the supervising physiotherapist or physician.

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

Generally, physiotherapy services provided in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ in Quebec. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private outpatient physiotherapy is usually not reimbursed. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans, as many offer coverage for physiotherapy services in private clinics.

How can I book an appointment at CHSLD BIERMANS?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (514) 351-9891 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.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Nicole will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

Is there parking available at or near CHSLD BIERMANS?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Additional street parking is generally available on nearby streets, and a paid public parkade is located within a short walking distance. Please check local signage for any restrictions or time limits.

CHSLD BIERMANS
7905, Rue Sherbrooke E
Montréal, QC H1L 1A4

Phone: (514) 351-9891

Nicole Bouchard 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.