Raphaelle Lemay – Physiotherapist | Laval, QC

Raphaelle Lemay is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at Physio Élite - Laval in Laval, QC, Raphaelle is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. With a focus on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, Raphaelle provides tailored assessments and treatments for conditions affecting muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Additionally, Raphaelle offers specialized care for jaw pain (TMJ/TMD), orofacial pain, and various headaches that have a musculoskeletal component, serving patients of all ages, from infants and young children through to adults and seniors.

Raphaelle completed her degree in Physiotherapy with a strong foundation in evidence-based practices. She continually updates her skills through ongoing professional development, with particular expertise and interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as TMJ, Headache, and Orofacial Pain Physiotherapy. Her clinical experience has enabled her to develop a nuanced understanding of complex musculoskeletal conditions, ensuring her approach is both thorough and effective, with a focus on achieving optimal patient outcomes.

Her practice philosophy centers on a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to reach their movement and functional goals. Raphaelle is dedicated to integrating the latest evidence into her treatments and promoting preventative care and long-term wellness within the Laval community. She is fluent in French and English, facilitating clear communication and personalized care for diverse patient populations.

Raphaelle Lemay 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): Symptoms in your hand or wrist that impact your ability to perform your job, hobbies, or essential self-care tasks, addressed by specialized hand physiotherapy.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Discomfort felt around the shoulder blade, at the top of the shoulder, or radiating down the arm, making simple tasks challenging.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Aching, sharp pain, a feeling of the knee 'giving way', or difficulty fully bending or straightening your knee.

Joint Pain

• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A chronic condition causing joint discomfort, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), and impacting your ability to perform daily activities, walk, or engage in hobbies.
• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.

Hand Wrist

• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Managing a variety of acute and chronic conditions of the hand and wrist, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent long-term disability.
• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Helping to alleviate the symptoms of a catching, locking, or painful finger/thumb through targeted physiotherapy interventions, potentially avoiding the need for injections or surgery in some cases.

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

• 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.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing future issues.
• 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.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.
• 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.

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

• Living with general muscle strains and pulls from overdoing it at the gym or in the garden doesn't have to be your norm. Raphaelle applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards feeling significantly stronger and more capable in their physical abilities, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort.
• At Raphaelle's physiotherapy practice, individuals with that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder are guided towards a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as taking energetic, long walks with your dog every day.
• For those whose that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away has made peacefully paddling your kayak or canoe on the lake for hours seem like a distant memory, Raphaelle's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward a more comfortable and physically manageable pregnancy experience. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to peacefully paddling your kayak or canoe on the lake for hours with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Raphaelle practices at Physio Élite - Laval, situated in the Fabreville West neighborhood of Laval. The clinic is conveniently located near Place Bell (Arena/Theatre) and is easily accessible via Société de transport de Laval (STL). The facility is a private clinic that provides a welcoming environment for patients seeking professional physiotherapy services. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy, delivered by a qualified Physiothérapeute, is a science-based profession that focuses on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of future problems. Your physiotherapist will use techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (hands-on treatment), education, and advice, empowering you to manage your health independently and achieve your physical goals.

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

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiothérapeute can properly examine and treat the area.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be an ordeal of pain. While you might feel some discomfort or a stretching sensation as you work to regain movement or strength, especially in the initial stages of treatment for an acute injury or chronic stiffness, it's rarely 'painful' in a distressing or harmful way. Your Physiothérapeute will guide you through each step, modify treatments to suit your comfort and tolerance, and ensure that the overall experience is positive. The ultimate aim is to make you feel better, not worse.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Definitely. A key aspect of physiotherapy is not just treating current problems but also preventing future ones. A Physiothérapeute can assess your movement, identify potential weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to injury, and provide you with a personalized program of exercises and strategies. This proactive approach is beneficial for athletes, individuals with physically demanding jobs, or anyone looking to maintain long-term musculoskeletal health and avoid recurring pain.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Certain services within public hospitals or CLSCs may be covered if they meet specific criteria. It is advisable to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for coverage details.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a practice 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 before your appointment.

What is the difference between a Physiothérapeute and a Technologue en physiothérapie in Quebec?

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master’s degree and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, create treatment plans, and apply therapeutic interventions. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises but does not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Physio Élite - Laval
3625, Boulevard Curé-Labelle, Bureau 203
Laval, QC H7P 0A5

Phone: (450) 688-2424 | Website: https://www.physioelite.net/

Raphaelle Lemay 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.