Sarah Fortier – Physiotherapy Technologist | Sainte-Marie, QC

Sarah Fortier is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CLSC NOUVELLE-BEAUCE in Sainte-Marie, QC, Sarah 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. Sarah primarily serves adults and seniors, helping them regain mobility, reduce pain, and enhance their overall well-being through personalized physiotherapy care.

Sarah completed her degree in Physiotherapy Technology, gaining valuable clinical experience that enriches her approach to patient care. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development and adheres to evidence-based practices to ensure optimal outcomes for her patients. Sarah has developed particular skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring, which she combines with a compassionate approach to help her clients achieve their health goals effectively.

Her practice philosophy emphasizes promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Sainte-Marie community through proactive physiotherapy. Sarah actively involves her patients in their treatment planning and goal setting, fostering a collaborative environment that empowers individuals to take charge of their health. She is fluent in French, ensuring clear communication and personalized care for her diverse patient base.

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

Common Msk

• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Damage to the body's movement system, including issues like joint inflammation, ligament tears, or muscle overstretching, often requiring physiotherapy for optimal recovery.
• Knee Pain (e.g., Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - conservative, Ligament Sprains): Pain, swelling, clicking, locking, or instability in or around the knee joint from various causes like ligament sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL), meniscal tears (managed conservatively), or patellofemoral (kneecap) pain.
• 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.

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

• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): The therapeutic use of different electrical currents by your Physiotherapist to achieve specific physiological effects, such as improving muscle contraction, reducing atrophy, or enhancing functional movement.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: The application of high-frequency sound waves by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to promote deep tissue heating, increase local blood flow, reduce pain, and facilitate the healing process in soft tissues like muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: LLLT or 'cold laser' therapy to stimulate your body's natural healing processes, provide pain relief, and improve function in conditions like tendinopathies, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.

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

• Many find that trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain significantly impacts their ability to reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches. Sarah helps patients target feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day with physiotherapy, making a return to these activities possible.
• For those whose my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly) has made operating machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work seem like a distant memory, Sarah's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward feeling more stable and confident on their feet, especially on uneven surfaces. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to operating machinery or tools safely and efficiently at work with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Patients struggling with working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery can find dedicated and compassionate support from Sarah. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun.

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

Sarah practices at CLSC NOUVELLE-BEAUCE, a centrally located clinic in the Sainte-Marie neighborhood of Sainte-Marie, QC. This public healthcare facility is conveniently situated near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive health support. The clinic is accessible via local public transit routes, ensuring easy transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.) directly without a physician's referral, which is known as direct access. However, while a doctor's referral may not be 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 the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

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 usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC (if meeting their criteria) might be covered, but private clinic physiotherapy is typically not included. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?

Yes, physiotherapy is effective in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. It involves identifying underlying risk factors such as muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, or postural issues. Through targeted exercises, education, and activity modifications, physiotherapy can reduce the risk of initial injury, re-injury, and help manage chronic conditions, supporting a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, most patients receive a customized home exercise program tailored to their specific needs. These exercises are essential for maintaining progress and ensuring the effectiveness of treatment. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will guide you through the exercises and provide instructions to help you perform them safely and effectively at home.

What is the difference between a Physiotherapist (Physiothérapeute) and a Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) 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 certain 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. They apply prescribed treatments, guide exercises, and monitor progress but do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

CLSC NOUVELLE-BEAUCE
775, Rue Étienne-Raymond, C.P. 1630
Sainte-Marie, QC G6E 0B9

Phone: (418) 387-8181

Sarah Fortier 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.