Pauline Patou – Physiotherapy Technologist | Laval, QC

Pauline Patou is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS de Laval (Hôpital Cité de la santé) in Laval, QC, Pauline 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 a physiotherapist or physician, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Pauline primarily serves adults and seniors, focusing on improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing overall well-being.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy practices, Pauline completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that underscores her commitment to evidence-based care. She has developed specialized skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, ensuring tailored interventions for each individual. Pauline continuously pursues professional development opportunities to stay updated with the latest physiotherapy techniques and research, maintaining a high standard of care for her patients.

Her practice philosophy centers around empowering patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Pauline adopts a collaborative approach, working closely with her patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. She emphasizes preventative care and long-term wellness, promoting proactive physiotherapy to support the Laval community's health. Pauline is fluent in French, facilitating effective communication with her diverse patient base.

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

Common Msk

• Muscle Strains and Tears: Common injuries in active individuals, athletes, or resulting from accidents, leading to localized pain, swelling, bruising, and weakness in the affected muscle (e.g., hamstring, calf, quadriceps, groin, rotator cuff).
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Common knee complaints that can affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, squat, run, or participate in sports, addressed through a tailored physiotherapy program.
• 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. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Pauline can assess your needs.

• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Pauline. 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 CISSS de Laval (Hôpital Cité de la santé), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Pauline frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of feeling 'off-balance' and worried about falling, especially as I get older? Pauline works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of decreased frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck or postural issues. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as joining in on pickup basketball games at the local court.
• It's truly rewarding for Pauline to witness patients conquer my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night and experience increased flexibility throughout their body, particularly in their back and major joints. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in competing effectively in your curling league games again.
• Tired of recovering my strength and energy after being very sick (like with pneumonia or Long COVID) interfering with handling your job that involves frequent standing, walking, or bending? Pauline uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Pauline practices at the CISSS de Laval (Hôpital Cité de la santé), situated in the Chomedey North neighborhood of Laval. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near the Major East-West Arterial, making it easily accessible for residents in the area. The clinic can be reached via the Société de transport de Laval (STL), facilitating convenient transit options for patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

This is very individual and depends on many factors. After your comprehensive initial assessment, your Physiotherapy Technologist will be able to give you a better idea of the anticipated number of sessions and the frequency of visits needed to achieve your specific goals. We believe in open communication and will regularly review your progress with you, adjusting the treatment plan as you improve and as needed.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally access a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, which is known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to see a Physiotherapy Technologist, some private or extended health insurance plans do require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurer prior to your first appointment to ensure coverage.

Is there parking available at or near CISSS de Laval (Hôpital Cité de la santé)?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Additionally, metered street parking is generally available on nearby streets, and there is a paid public parkade located a short distance away. Always check signs for parking restrictions and time limits.

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 might cause mild, temporary discomfort, especially if tissues are inflamed or very stiff. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will always work within your tolerance, explain what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain, inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made for your comfort.

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 through private insurance. Certain public services, such as physiotherapy within hospitals or CLSCs for eligible patients, may be covered. It is important to verify coverage with RAMQ and your private insurer before scheduling treatments.

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 assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and perform restricted activities. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician. Technologists assist in implementing treatment plans, guiding exercises, and monitoring progress but do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

CISSS de Laval (Hôpital Cité de la santé)
1755, Boulevard René-Laennec
Laval, QC H7M 3L9

Phone: (450) 668-1010

Pauline Patou 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.