Pascale Bernard – Physiotherapy Technologist | Shawinigan, QC

Pascale Bernard is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSSS Mauricie Centre-du-Quebec in Shawinigan, QC, Pascale is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach emphasizes performance enhancement and athletic recovery, helping active individuals and athletes optimize their movement, prevent injuries, and achieve their personal best. Pascale’s focus is on facilitating rapid and effective recovery through tailored interventions that support not only injury management but also long-term performance and wellness.

As a Physiotherapy Technologist, Pascale plays a vital role in assisting with the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians. She guides patients through therapeutic exercises, applies a variety of treatment modalities, and monitors progress to ensure optimal outcomes. Pascale’s expertise is especially beneficial for senior patients, helping them maintain mobility, strength, and independence through proactive physiotherapy strategies designed to improve functional capacity and reduce fall risk. Her approach integrates evidence-based practices with a collaborative mindset, empowering patients to take an active role in their recovery and performance goals.

Pascale completed her diploma in Physiotherapy Technology and has accumulated clinical experience in diverse settings, continually refining her skills through ongoing professional development. She has developed particular strengths in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Pascale’s commitment to evidence-based physiotherapy practices ensures that each patient receives personalized, effective care tailored to their specific performance and rehabilitation needs. Fluent in French, Pascale communicates clearly and effectively with her diverse clientele, fostering a supportive environment for active recovery and athletic achievement.

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

Common Msk

• 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.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort, limited range of motion, and persistent tension in the cervical spine (neck), often related to posture, an injury, stress, or sleeping position.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.

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

• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Using therapeutic cold to manage the initial stages of an injury (e.g., sprains, strains) and control inflammatory responses, helping to limit tissue damage.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
• 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: A non-invasive light therapy used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, promote faster healing, reduce pain, and modulate inflammation without generating heat.
• 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.

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

• With Pascale's help, managing knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run to achieve restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like attending and enjoying your children's or grandchildren's sporting events.
• It's truly rewarding for Pascale to witness patients conquer pain and difficulty with overhead movements like reaching into a cupboard and experience a smooth and confident transition back to their work duties. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in shoveling snow or raking leaves without aggravating your back again.
• Patients struggling with trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain can find dedicated and compassionate support from Pascale. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches.

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

Pascale practices at the CIUSSS Mauricie Centre-du-Quebec, situated within a modern clinic in the heart of Shawinigan’s central neighborhood. The facility is part of a Centre d'hébergement et de soins de longue durée (CHSLD), providing easy access for patients from the local community. Its strategic location near various community services and pharmacies makes it a convenient choice for active individuals and seniors seeking performance-oriented physiotherapy care. The clinic is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Does CIUSSS Mauricie Centre-du-Quebec offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, the CIUSSS Mauricie Centre-du-Quebec offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, and others. Patients are advised to bring their insurance card and policy details to their appointments. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider beforehand to confirm coverage specifics, including any annual maximums or per-visit limits. While direct billing is available, patients are responsible for any portion not covered by their insurance.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ does not typically cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Coverage may be available for care received directly through public hospitals or CLSCs under specific conditions. Most outpatient private physiotherapy treatments are paid out-of-pocket or covered through private insurance. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for comprehensive coverage.

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

Many private health insurance plans offer full or partial coverage for registered physiotherapy services. Patients should contact their insurance provider before their first appointment to understand their coverage details, including any annual maximums, co-payments, and whether a doctor's referral is required. If the clinic offers direct billing and your plan permits, Pascale can bill your insurer directly. Otherwise, you will receive an official receipt to submit for reimbursement. Remember to bring your insurance card and policy information.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician’s referral (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check your insurance policy details before your appointment.

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

A Physiothérapeute holds a university master’s degree and is authorized to diagnose, establish treatment plans, and perform assessments independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress but does not diagnose or create treatment plans independently. Both are regulated by the OPPQ.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on the condition, severity, and individual response to therapy. Pascale will discuss a treatment plan during your initial assessment and adjust it as needed based on your progress.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques such as joint mobilizations, manipulations, soft tissue massage, and neural mobilizations, aimed at reducing pain, improving mobility, and restoring tissue function. Pascale uses these techniques to enhance recovery and optimize movement.

CIUSSS Mauricie Centre-du-Quebec
243, Rue 1re de la Pointe
Shawinigan, QC G9N 1K2

Phone: (819) 388-1500

Pascale Bernard 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.