Patricia Boivin – Physiotherapist | Roberval, QC

Patricia Boivin is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CIUSSS Saguenay Lac St-Jean in Roberval, QC, Patricia is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She approaches each patient with empathy and a genuine desire to support their journey toward better health, understanding that each individual’s needs are unique and deserving of personalized attention.

Patricia's expertise encompasses addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and post-surgical conditions. She specializes in helping individuals recover function, improve mobility, manage symptoms, and enhance their quality of life after neurological events such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Her compassionate approach ensures that every patient feels heard, respected, and actively involved in their recovery process, fostering a supportive environment conducive to healing.

With a focus on continuous professional development, Patricia has developed skills and a particular interest in orthopedic, musculoskeletal, and neurological physiotherapy. She remains committed to evidence-based practices and staying current with the latest advancements to provide effective and safe treatments. Fluent in French, Patricia communicates clearly and empathetically, ensuring her patients feel comfortable and confident in their care.

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

Post Surgical

• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal surgery.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Physiotherapy aimed at restoring movement, strength, and function after surgical repair of broken bones (e.g., Open Reduction Internal Fixation - ORIF, intramedullary nailing), once the fracture site is sufficiently healed and cleared for rehabilitation by your surgeon.

Arthritis

• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Supportive physiotherapy for individuals with psoriatic arthritis, focusing on managing joint pain and swelling, maintaining range of motion and strength, improving function, and providing advice on activity modification and joint protection.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Tailored exercise programs (including range of motion, strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercises), pain relief modalities, and education on joint protection techniques and energy conservation for individuals with RA or similar conditions.

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Alleviating symptoms and improving function for individuals with entrapped nerves through conservative physiotherapy management, helping to avoid more invasive interventions.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Addressing the physical consequences of nerve damage in the limbs through targeted exercises (e.g., for balance, strength, desensitization), sensory re-education, and advice on appropriate footwear or assistive devices.

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

• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Providing clear guidance on self-care techniques, activity modifications, and beneficial lifestyle adjustments for long-term well-being and injury prevention.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Comprehensive assessment of your fall risk factors with individualized interventions, including balance exercises, strength training, gait re-training, and home safety advice to help you prevent falls.
• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Providing professional physiotherapy assessment, treatment, education, and exercise prescription directly in the comfort and convenience of your home environment, especially for those who have difficulty attending an outpatient clinic due to mobility issues, severe pain, or other constraints.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.

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

• Many individuals seek help from Patricia, their physiotherapist, when swelling in my arm or leg, possibly lymphedema, after surgery or treatment starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like peacefully paddling your kayak or canoe on the lake for hours.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Patricia can help you move beyond feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older. The focus is on a reduction in nerve-related symptoms like tingling or numbness, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as returning to a specific physical hobby you had to give up due to pain.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches? Patricia works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as comfortably cooking and meal prepping for your family.

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

Patricia practices at CIUSSS Saguenay Lac St-Jean, situated within a modern clinic in the central Roberval neighborhood of Roberval. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access care. The clinic is well connected via local public transit routes, ensuring accessible transportation options for all visitors. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically consult a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, it is important to verify with your private insurance plan, as some may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. While you can see a Physiothérapeute without a referral, obtaining one might be necessary for coverage under certain insurance plans or extended health benefits. It is recommended to check your insurance policies before your appointment.

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

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform patient assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and apply various therapeutic interventions independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) has a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, primarily assisting with prescribed treatments and exercises without making diagnoses or creating independent treatment plans. Both professionals are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

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

Generally, physiotherapy in private clinics is not directly covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Certain services within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if specific criteria are met. It is advisable to verify your eligibility and coverage details directly with RAMQ and your private insurer.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be a painful experience. While some discomfort or a gentle stretching sensation may occur during exercises or manual therapy, it should never be distressing or harmful. Patricia will guide you through each step, adjusting treatments to your comfort level, with the goal of making you feel better, not worse.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, physiotherapy is proactive in preventing future injuries and managing recurring pain. Patricia can assess your movement patterns, identify weaknesses or imbalances, and develop personalized exercise programs and strategies to promote long-term musculoskeletal health and reduce risk.

Does CIUSSS Saguenay Lac St-Jean offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, our clinic offers direct billing with most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, and Blue Cross. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to facilitate billing. If direct billing is not available for your plan, we provide detailed receipts that you can submit for reimbursement. It’s important to confirm your coverage and any limitations with your insurer prior to your appointment.

CIUSSS Saguenay Lac St-Jean
400, Avenue Bergeron, Aile A
Roberval, QC G8H 1K8

Phone: (418) 275-0110

Patricia Boivin 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.