Sara Gagnon – Physiotherapy Technologist | Saint-Hubert, QC

Sara Gagnon is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at Physio Saint-Hubert in Saint-Hubert, QC, Sara is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). She specializes in assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Sara’s focus is on helping adult patients regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve their overall well-being through personalized physiotherapy interventions.

Sara Gagnon completed her degree in Physiotherapy Technology and has accumulated valuable clinical experience. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development and adheres to evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Her skills include therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, ensuring a comprehensive approach to each individual’s rehabilitation journey. Sara's commitment to excellence ensures that her patients receive effective, safe, and tailored treatment in a supportive environment.

Her practice is rooted in a patient-centered philosophy that actively involves individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Sara works collaboratively with her patients to achieve their movement and functional goals, emphasizing education, empowerment, and active participation. She is fluent in both French and English, which allows her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population, ensuring clarity and comfort throughout the rehabilitation process.

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

Common Msk

• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Knee problems that limit your ability to stay active, perform daily tasks, or enjoy your hobbies, for which physiotherapy offers effective solutions.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Common back problems that can impact your posture, ability to perform daily activities, and overall mobility, addressed with targeted physiotherapy.

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

• 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.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: A non-invasive electrotherapy modality aimed at reducing pain, muscle guarding, or swelling, and sometimes used for muscle strengthening, as part of your physiotherapy treatment.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.
• 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.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• 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.

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

• With Sara's help, managing wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night to achieve a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of numbness, tingling, or weakness in my hands, arms, feet, or legs? Sara works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as getting on and off the floor with ease.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck and achieved being active again without the constant worry of pain or re-injury under the skilled care of Sara. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as playing in your competitive volleyball league again with a new lease on life.

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

Practicing at Physio Saint-Hubert, Sara’s clinic is located in the heart of the central Saint-Hubert neighborhood of Saint-Hubert, QC. The clinic is situated within a modern private facility that offers a welcoming environment for all patients. Its strategic location ensures easy access, as it is situated near various community services and pharmacies, making it convenient for patients to combine appointments with other errands. The clinic is accessible via multiple local public transit routes, allowing patients to reach their appointments without hassle. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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).

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, absolutely! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapy Technologist can identify underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, postural issues, or biomechanical inefficiencies. By addressing these through targeted exercises, education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic advice, and activity modification, physiotherapy can help reduce your risk of initial injury, prevent re-injury, and manage chronic conditions more effectively, keeping you active and healthy.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will carefully select and teach you exercises specific to your needs. These exercises help to reinforce what's done in the clinic, manage your condition effectively, and ensure you continue progressing towards your goals even when you're not in a session.

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

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) card, if applicable for any publicly funded programs or simply for identification), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), and a list of your current medications. Also, if you plan to use private health insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Finally, wear or bring comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

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 utilize private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered under specific circumstances, but private outpatient physiotherapy is usually not included. Patients are advised to verify their coverage with RAMQ and consult their private insurance plans for reimbursement options.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access a Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) directly without a physician’s referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to see a physiotherapy technologist, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check the requirements of your insurance policy before your appointment.

Physio Saint-Hubert
6800, Boulevard Cousineau, # 30
Saint-Hubert, QC J3Y 8Z4

Phone: (450) 926-2557

Sara Gagnon 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.