Pascale Larouche – Physiotherapy Technologist | Montréal, QC

Pascale Larouche is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSSS CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL in Montréal, QC, Pascale 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. Pascale's approach emphasizes collaborating closely with patients, especially senior individuals, to address their unique needs and promote optimal health outcomes.
Pascale completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that underscores her commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices. She has developed specialized skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, ensuring her interventions are tailored to each patient's condition. Her dedication to continual learning allows her to incorporate the latest physiotherapy techniques and research into her practice, enhancing the quality of care delivered.
Her practice philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness within the Montréal community through proactive physiotherapy. Pascale adopts a collaborative and patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. She believes in empowering her patients to take an active role in their health journey. Pascale is fluent in French and English, facilitating clear communication and fostering a comfortable environment for diverse patients seeking physiotherapy services.

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

Common Msk

• 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.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Discomfort experienced in the hip region, groin, outer hip, or buttock, potentially stemming from joint inflammation (bursitis), muscle strains, tendinopathy, or conservative management of labral tears.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.

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

• 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.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: A non-invasive electrotherapy modality aimed at reducing pain, muscle guarding, or swelling, and sometimes used for muscle strengthening, as part of your physiotherapy treatment.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.

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 CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL, 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:

• For those whose feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort has made engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands seem like a distant memory, Pascale's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to engaging in volunteer work that might have physical demands with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Living with breathing difficulties and shortness of breath with COPD or asthma, especially during activity doesn't have to be your norm. Pascale applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards feeling a substantial improvement in their mobility and range of motion for easier movement, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of feeling unsteady on my feet or experiencing dizziness and balance problems? Pascale works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a significant improvement in their overall quality of life and daily well-being. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as maintaining an upright posture while working on your computer for hours.

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

Pascale practices at CIUSSS CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL, situated in a central Montréal neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is well-connected by public transit routes, ensuring easy and efficient transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can also perform certain advanced procedures if they have the required additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They play a crucial role in delivering care by implementing treatment plans designed by a physiotherapist or physician, assisting patients with their exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising professional.

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. We recommend you contact your insurance provider directly before your first appointment to understand the specifics of your plan. Key things to check are: your annual maximum for physiotherapy, any per-visit limits or co-payments, whether a doctor's referral is required for reimbursement, and if your plan allows for direct billing by the clinic. If our clinic offers direct billing and your plan allows it, we can often bill your insurer directly for the covered portion. You would then be responsible for any co-payment or remaining balance not covered by your plan at the time of service. Please bring your insurance card and all necessary policy details to your first appointment. If direct billing is not possible, we will provide you with an official receipt that you can submit to your insurer.

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 typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC (if meeting their criteria) might be covered, but private clinic physiotherapy is usually not. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance provider for coverage options.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your initial physiotherapy appointment is a comprehensive assessment. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will start by discussing your medical history, the details of your current symptoms or injury, your concerns, and your goals. This is followed by a physical examination evaluating your range of motion, strength, posture, balance, and specific movement patterns. Based on these findings, your therapist will provide a clinical impression, discuss a personalized treatment plan, and often initiate some treatment or education to support your recovery.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically 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 advisable to check your insurance policy details before your appointment.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiotherapy Technologist to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is recommended. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

What is CIUSSS CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL'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 of [e.g., 50% of the service cost / a set amount like $XX] 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.

CIUSSS CENTRE SUD DE L'ÎLE-DE-MONTRÉAL
155, Boulevard Saint-Joseph E
Montréal, QC H2T 1H4

Phone: (514) 521-7663

Pascale Larouche 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.