Nicole Lynne Vaillancourt – Physiotherapist | Kingston, ON

Nicole Vaillancourt is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Summit Physiotherapy in Kingston, ON, Nicole Vaillancourt is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Nicole Vaillancourt addresses a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains, to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Nicole Vaillancourt serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Nicole Vaillancourt completed their degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University (Graduating Class of 2009). With extensive clinical experience, Nicole Vaillancourt is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Nicole Vaillancourt has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

Nicole Vaillancourt empowers patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Nicole Vaillancourt maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional learning to provide the best care. Nicole Vaillancourt offers consultations in English and French.

Nicole Vaillancourt provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): An inflammatory arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis (a skin condition), causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and sometimes affecting tendons (enthesitis) and ligaments. Can affect small or large joints, often asymmetrically, and sometimes the spine.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Inflammation (tendinitis) or, more commonly, degeneration (tendinosis/tendinopathy) of tendons, leading to localized pain that typically worsens with activity or loading of the tendon.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.

Common Musculoskeletal

• 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: Injuries to ankle ligaments, typically from twisting or 'rolling' motions, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Can result in recurrent sprains and chronic instability if not properly rehabilitated.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Nicole Vaillancourt can assess your needs.

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Hands-on physiotherapy focused on mobilizing restricted joints and soft tissues to promote healing, restore normal biomechanics, and alleviate pain.
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Targeted shockwave application to promote tissue regeneration, modulate pain, and improve function in chronic injuries, often with lasting results.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• 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. For a full list of therapies offered by Nicole Vaillancourt, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

At Summit Physiotherapy, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Nicole Vaillancourt frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery? Nicole Vaillancourt works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as participating fully in their martial arts practice, including sparring.
• When recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing competing effectively in their curling league games, physiotherapy with Nicole Vaillancourt can help you work towards restoring normal movement patterns essential for everyday tasks. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Nicole Vaillancourt frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.
• Tired of soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise interfering with engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours? Nicole Vaillancourt uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Nicole Vaillancourt practices at Summit Physiotherapy, situated in the Kingscourt, Rideau Heights neighborhood of Kingston. The clinic is conveniently located near Kingston Centre (redeveloping) and is accessible via Kingston Transit. Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is Summit Physiotherapy'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 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.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapist may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiotherapist, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is generally to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting pain. Some assessment techniques or specific treatments (like deep soft tissue work, joint mobilization, or certain exercises) might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if the tissues being treated are sensitive, inflamed, or very stiff. However, your Physiotherapist will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics for most of the population. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility criteria are strict and there may be waitlists. It is strongly recommended to check your private insurance for private clinic coverage.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?

Patients in ON can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your first appointment will be an in-depth assessment. Expect to discuss your issue, its history, and your overall health. Nicole Vaillancourt will perform physical tests to assess your movement and strength. The goal is to understand your condition to develop a tailored treatment plan. You might receive home exercises or initial hands-on care.

Summit Physiotherapy
1-677 Innovation Drive
Kingston, ON, K7K 7E6

Phone: (613) 893-3498

Nicole Lynne Vaillancourt is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

Registration Number: XXX04

Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=ea39812b-9002-e811-8136-480fcfeae051

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.