Sandra Phaneuf

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

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.

Neurological

• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Utilizing evidence-based neuroplasticity principles, motor relearning techniques, and task-specific training to help stroke survivors improve movement and achieve their functional goals.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Physiotherapy aimed at maximizing functional independence, mobility (e.g., transfers, wheelchair skills, ambulation if appropriate), strength, range of motion, and managing secondary complications (e.g., pain, spasticity, respiratory issues) for individuals with incomplete or specific types of spinal cord injuries. Often part of a multidisciplinary team approach.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy strategies to help manage common MS symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, spasticity, balance problems, walking difficulties, pain, and bladder dysfunction, aiming to maintain function, improve quality of life, and promote self-management.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach for individuals recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury, guiding a safe and gradual return to school, work, and sport activities.

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

• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Helping you overcome dizziness, vertigo, and unsteadiness with targeted vestibular exercises and strategies, enabling you to return to daily activities with greater stability and comfort.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Comprehensive physiotherapy programs designed to maximize quality of life and functional abilities for individuals with conditions like stroke (CVA), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, traumatic or acquired brain injury (TBI/ABI), or incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI).

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

• Patients struggling with that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work can find dedicated and compassionate support from Sandra. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving improved performance in work-related physical demands, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as safely meeting the lifting requirements at your workplace.
• Tired of recovering from a concussion and dealing with lingering symptoms like dizziness or headaches interfering with managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain? Sandra uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand) and regain your freedom of movement.
• Struggling with the frustration of sharp pain shooting down my leg, feeling a lot like sciatica? Sandra develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments. This is key to helping you get back to doing pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Sandra practices at Clinique Alta Physio, situated in a modern clinic located in the heart of Cowansville’s central neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive healthcare in one accessible location. Public transit routes serve the area well, ensuring that patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions 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?

Most physiotherapy services in private clinics are not directly covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance plans. However, care received in a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private health insurance plans for potential coverage.

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

Patients in Quebec can generally see a Physiothérapeute directly without a doctor's referral, a process 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 before your appointment.

Approximately how many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

It is difficult to determine the exact number of sessions needed without a comprehensive assessment. Some conditions resolve quickly, while others may require ongoing care. Your Physiothérapeute will provide an estimated treatment plan after your initial visit, which will be adjusted as needed during your recovery.

What is Clinique Alta Physio's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand schedules can change unexpectedly. To accommodate all patients effectively, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur a fee, typically 50% of the session cost or a set amount. Please contact the clinic promptly if changes are necessary.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession focused on restoring movement, reducing pain, and improving overall function. A Physiothérapeute uses evidence-based techniques like exercise, manual therapy, and education to treat injuries, manage pain, and prevent future issues. It helps individuals regain strength, mobility, and independence, enhancing their quality of life.

Clinique Alta Physio
1530, Rue du Sud, # 200
Cowansville, QC J2K 2Y8

Phone: (450) 955-3858 | Website: cliniquealtaphysio.com

Sandra Phaneuf 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.