Olivier Ricard – Physiotherapist | Gatineau, QC

Olivier Ricard is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire in Gatineau, QC. Olivier 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). His approach emphasizes individualized treatment plans, evidence-based practices, and active patient involvement to optimize recovery and functional outcomes.

Specializing in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, Olivier's scope includes managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. He offers expert assessment and treatment for jaw pain (TMJ/TMD), orofacial pain, and various types of headaches, including cervicogenic and tension-type headaches, which often have a musculoskeletal component. His focus is on restoring optimal function and reducing discomfort to improve his patients' quality of life.

With a solid educational background and extensive clinical experience, Olivier has developed particular expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as specialized care for TMJ, headache, and orofacial pain. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development, ensuring his practice remains current with the latest evidence and techniques. Olivier is fluent in French and English, facilitating effective communication with a diverse patient population.

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

Arthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Helping you regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve function in affected joints after a gout episode, as part of your overall gout management plan.

Tmj Headache

• Cervicogenic Headaches: Addressing the neck component of your headaches through specific manual therapy techniques, exercises to improve neck mobility and strength, and postural correction.
• Tension-Type Headaches: Physiotherapy for headaches caused by muscle tightness and trigger points in the neck, shoulders, scalp, and jaw muscles.
• Tinnitus (Musculoskeletal/TMJ-Related): Ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other noises perceived in one or both ears that are not caused by an external sound. In some cases (somatic tinnitus), these symptoms can be influenced by or linked to problems in the jaw (TMJ), neck (cervical spine), or surrounding muscles that physiotherapy can address.

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): Commonly known as 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, this condition affects various joints, often worsening with age, overuse, or previous injury, and can significantly impact daily function.

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

• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Comprehensive strategies developed with your Physiotherapist to help you understand and live better with chronic pain, focusing on improving function, reducing pain's impact, and enhancing self-efficacy rather than solely on pain elimination.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided stretching routines and flexibility exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist, aimed at improving your range of motion, reducing muscle tightness or stiffness, and enhancing overall movement quality.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Development of a tailored therapeutic exercise program by your Physiotherapist, focused on your specific rehabilitation needs, strength goals, flexibility improvements, balance, and overall conditioning.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Olivier. 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 Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Olivier frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• The journey to greater ease with dressing, bathing, and other self-care activities when faced with persistent pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard is made smoother and more effective with Olivier's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older? Olivier works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching your back.
• Living with wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night doesn't have to be your norm. Olivier applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.

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

Olivier practices at the 'Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire', situated in the Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighborhood of Gatineau. This private clinic facility is conveniently located near the Maison de la culture de Gatineau and is easily accessible via the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), including the Rapibus BRT system. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as "direct access." However, while a referral is not legally required to see a Physiothérapeute, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider regarding their specific requirements before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

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, diagnose conditions, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They may perform advanced procedures if qualified. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, holds a college diploma (DEC) focusing on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They assist in delivering care by implementing treatment plans, guiding exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress to the supervising physiotherapist or physician.

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. Some care within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if meeting specific criteria, but private outpatient physiotherapy is typically not reimbursed by RAMQ. It is recommended to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for coverage options.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are an integral part of your rehabilitation process. Olivier will carefully select and teach you exercises tailored to your needs, helping to reinforce treatment, manage your condition, and promote ongoing progress outside of sessions.

What is Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand schedules can change unexpectedly. To accommodate all patients effectively, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for appointment cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or no-shows without adequate notice may incur a fee, typically equivalent to 50% of the service cost or a set amount like $50. Please contact the clinic promptly if you need to modify your appointment.

Clinique de physiothérapie Cranio-Cervicale & Temporo-Mandibulaire
15, Rue Gamelin, # 602
Gatineau, QC J8Y 6N5

Phone: (819) 777-0004 | Website: https://phsysiocct.com/

Olivier Ricard 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.