Sophie De Guire Ouellet – Physiotherapist | Gatineau, QC

Sophie De Guire Ouellet is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CISSS de L'Outaouais (CLSC de Gatineau) in Gatineau, QC, Sophie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. She specializes in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and vestibular conditions, providing tailored assessments and treatments that promote optimal recovery and functional independence. Sophie’s approach emphasizes evidence-based practices, ensuring each patient receives care that is both effective and personalized.
Sophie’s role extends beyond treatment; she strives to empower her patients through education, helping them understand their conditions and self-management strategies. She is experienced in managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic issues like arthritis and post-surgical rehabilitation. Additionally, Sophie offers specialized care for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders resulting from inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction. Her comprehensive approach caters to older children (5+), adolescents, adults, and seniors, making her a versatile provider capable of serving diverse age groups and health needs.
With a strong foundation in physiotherapy, Sophie completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated valuable clinical experience. She is dedicated to continuous professional development and stays current with the latest evidence-based interventions. Sophie has developed particular expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. Her practice philosophy revolves around a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to achieve their movement and functional goals. Sophie is fluent in French and English, allowing her to communicate effectively with a broad patient population and ensure clear understanding and engagement throughout the treatment process.

Sophie De Guire Ouellet provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical

• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: A structured, progressive, and goal-oriented physiotherapy rehabilitation program crucial for restoring knee stability, strength, range of motion, and proprioception (joint position sense) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or other knee ligament (e.g., PCL, MCL, LCL) reconstructive surgery.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Guidance on hip precautions (if applicable for your surgical approach), a progressive exercise program, and functional retraining after hip surgery to help you achieve your goals.
• 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.

Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Tailored exercise programs (including range of motion, strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercises), pain relief modalities, and education on joint protection techniques and energy conservation for individuals with RA or similar conditions.
• 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): A physiotherapy approach to address the unique challenges of AS, aiming to keep you as mobile and active as possible and support your spinal health and overall well-being.

Neurological

• Parkinson's Disease Management & Movement Therapy: Specialized physiotherapy exercises and movement strategies (e.g., LSVT BIG® principles, amplitude-based training, cueing techniques) to improve balance, gait (walking), posture, flexibility, coordination, and overall motor function in individuals with Parkinson's Disease.
• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Personalized exercise programs, hands-on therapy, and functional retraining for post-stroke recovery, addressing issues like hemiparesis, spasticity, or neglect.
• Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) - Movement Retraining: Physiotherapy as a key component of a multidisciplinary approach for Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FND), focusing on movement retraining, normalizing movement patterns that may be abnormal (e.g., tremor, weakness, gait disturbance, dystonia), and improving functional abilities.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation (Incomplete/Specific Cases): Helping individuals with spinal cord injuries achieve their highest level of physical potential through targeted exercises, functional training, equipment prescription, and compensatory strategies.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Specialized workouts to enhance your core strength, stability, and endurance, which are crucial for injury prevention, back health, and efficient performance in daily activities and sports.
• 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: Progressive resistance training programs designed by your Physiotherapist to improve muscle performance, support joint health, and enhance functional capacity for daily life or sport.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.
• 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.
• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Comprehensive care for concussion recovery, including initial assessment of symptoms (headache, dizziness, etc.), management of associated neck pain or dysfunction, vestibular and oculomotor (eye movement) rehabilitation, and guided, gradual return-to-learn, work, and sport protocols.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Sophie. 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 CISSS de L'Outaouais (CLSC de Gatineau), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Sophie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Sophie frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets feeling equipped with effective self-management strategies and exercises and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like painting or drawing for longer stretches without neck or shoulder ache.
• Patients often come to Sophie feeling defeated by my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly). With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving more comfortable and efficient movement when transitioning between positions (e.g., sit to stand) and resuming tackling home renovation and DIY projects with confidence becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
• Many individuals seek help from Sophie, their physiotherapist, when post-operative stiffness and weakness that's slowing down my recovery starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house.

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

Sophie practices at the CISSS de L'Outaouais (CLSC de Gatineau), situated in the Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighborhood of Gatineau. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Les Galeries de Hull and is accessible via the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), including the Rapibus BRT system. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment appointments are generally longer to allow for a thorough evaluation and discussion, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your condition, the type of treatment being provided, and the treatment plan designed by your Physiothérapeute.

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 process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to initiate physiotherapy, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the requirements of your insurance provider before your first appointment.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

Your initial appointment involves a comprehensive assessment. Sophie will review your medical history, discuss your current symptoms and concerns, and identify your functional goals. This is followed by a physical examination assessing range of motion, strength, posture, and movement patterns. Based on these findings, Sophie will provide a diagnosis, discuss a tailored treatment plan, and may initiate some initial treatment or provide education and exercises for home practice.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master's level university training, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans for patients. They are also authorized to perform advanced procedures with additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma (DEC) and supports physiotherapists by implementing treatment plans, assisting with exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Some coverage may be available if receiving care through public hospitals or CLSC under specific criteria. It is recommended to verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage details.

How can I book an appointment at CISSS de L'Outaouais (CLSC de Gatineau)?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (819) 966-6100 during business hours. Many practitioners also offer online booking through our website. Our friendly team will assist you in scheduling a suitable appointment with the right physiotherapist to meet your needs.

CISSS de L'Outaouais (CLSC de Gatineau)
104, Rue Lois
Gatineau, QC J8Y 3R7

Phone: (819) 966-6100

Sophie De Guire Ouellet 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.