Sandra Vaillancourt – Physiotherapist | Drummondville, QC

Sandra Vaillancourt is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at PHYSIOTHERAPIE SN+ in Drummondville, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Sandra’s approach is rooted in a thorough understanding of musculoskeletal, neurological, and vestibular conditions, enabling her to tailor treatments to each individual's unique needs. Her goal is to help patients regain their independence and improve their overall well-being through effective physiotherapy interventions.

Sandra specializes in addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions, including acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain management, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. She also offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues. Her focus is on reducing symptoms, restoring stability, and decreasing fall risk, particularly in adult and senior populations. Sandra’s compassionate and community-focused approach ensures that clients feel supported and empowered throughout their recovery journey.

With a solid educational background and ongoing professional development, Sandra has developed expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. She holds a physiotherapy degree and is committed to evidence-based practices that promote optimal healing and functional improvement. Sandra believes in empowering her patients through education, practical self-management strategies, and active participation in their treatment plans. She is fluent in both English and French, allowing her to communicate effectively with a diverse community of patients.

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

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• 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.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Specific exercises (e.g., McKenzie exercises, stretching, postural exercises) and strategies to help individuals with ankylosing spondylitis maintain function, reduce stiffness, and prevent long-term spinal changes.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, resulting in a range of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties (e.g., 'brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

Post Surgical

• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Comprehensive shoulder rehabilitation after surgical intervention, following surgeon-specific protocols, to ensure optimal healing, manage pain and swelling, and restore your arm's functional capacity.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Supportive physiotherapy to aid your recovery and help you manage symptoms after back or neck surgery, focusing on education, safe movement strategies, and specific exercises.

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

• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• 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.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): A common physiotherapy treatment for acute injuries, designed to help numb pain, decrease bleeding into the tissues, and minimize secondary hypoxic injury.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.

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 PHYSIOTHERAPIE SN+, 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:

• Many find that loss of strength in one of my limbs after an injury significantly impacts their ability to getting back to cycling for leisure or commuting. Sandra helps patients target much better balance overall, reducing the risk of stumbles or falls with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• With Sandra's help, managing that grinding or crunching feeling in my knee or shoulder to achieve greater ease in performing overhead activities or reaching becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like giving presentations or speaking publicly with confidence and good posture.
• Tired of tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot interfering with enduring your daily commute, whether driving or on public transit, without stiffness? Sandra uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve a better understanding of ergonomics for their work and home environment and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Sandra's practice at PHYSIOTHERAPIE SN+, situated in the Drummondville West, Saint-Charles-de-Drummond neighborhood, offers convenient access for local residents. The clinic is located near the Village Québécois d'Antan, making it an easily identifiable and friendly community hub. The facility is a private clinic designed to ensure comfort and privacy for all patients. It is easily accessible via the Société de transport de Drummondville (STD), with nearby public transit options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your initial physiotherapy appointment is a comprehensive assessment. Your Physiothérapeute will start by discussing your medical history, the details of your current symptoms or injury, your concerns, and what you hope to achieve with physiotherapy (your functional goals). This is followed by a thorough physical examination, which may include evaluating your range of motion, strength, posture, balance, and specific movement patterns, as well as performing special tests relevant to your condition. Based on these findings, your therapist will provide a clinical impression or diagnosis, discuss a personalized treatment plan with you, and often begin some initial treatment or provide education and a home exercise program to get you started.

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 (like deep soft tissue work, joint mobilization, or certain exercises) might cause mild, temporary discomfort or soreness, especially if the tissues being treated are sensitive, inflamed, or very stiff. However, your Physiothérapeute will always work within your tolerance levels, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage open feedback. If you experience notable or unacceptable pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

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

In Quebec, most outpatient physiotherapy services in private clinics are not covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Public coverage may be available in specific cases, such as hospital or CLSC services if criteria are met. It is important to verify with RAMQ and your private insurer regarding coverage details and eligibility, especially for extended health plans that often include physiotherapy benefits.

What is PHYSIOTHERAPIE SN+'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 equivalent to 50% of the service cost or a set amount like $50 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.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a 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.

Is there parking available at or near PHYSIOTHERAPIE SN+?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots. Additional street parking is generally available nearby, and a paid public parkade is located just a short walk away. Please check local signage for specific restrictions and hours.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance before your appointment to ensure coverage.

PHYSIOTHERAPIE SN+
110, Rue Saint-Jean
Drummondville, QC J2B 7T1

Phone: (819) 477-7751 | Website: https://www.physiosn.com/

Sandra Vaillancourt 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.