Sophie Gravel-Ouellet – Physiotherapy Technologist | Jonquière, QC

Sophie Gravel-Ouellet is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CIUSSS de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean in Jonquière, QC, Sophie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her role involves 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. Sophie’s approach emphasizes a thorough understanding of each individual's unique needs, fostering an environment where patients feel encouraged and empowered to actively participate in their rehabilitation process.

Serving adults and seniors, Sophie provides personalized interventions designed to restore movement, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being. She values evidence-based practices and continuously updates her skills to incorporate the latest physiotherapy techniques. Sophie’s focus on patient education ensures that individuals understand their conditions and are equipped with practical strategies for maintaining health and preventing future injuries. Her compassionate and collaborative approach aims to help each patient achieve their optimal functional potential and a better quality of life.

Sophie completed her diploma in Physiotherapy Technology and has gained clinical experience in various settings, which enhances her ability to adapt treatment strategies to diverse patient needs. She has developed particular interest and expertise in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application such as laser therapy and ultrasound, and patient monitoring. Sophie is dedicated to ongoing professional development, ensuring her practices are aligned with current evidence and standards in physiotherapy. Fluent in French, Sophie communicates effectively with her diverse patient population, fostering an inclusive and respectful care environment.

Sophie Gravel-Ouellet 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): 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.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: A comforting physiotherapy modality that helps to soothe tight muscles, decrease pain perception, and improve the flexibility of soft tissues.
• 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): 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.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.

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 CIUSSS de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, 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:

• Struggling with the frustration of my child complaining of 'growing pains' that keep them up at night? Sophie develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving improved core stability and control, leading to better posture and reduced strain. This is key to helping you get back to doing working on detailed woodworking projects in your shop without hand pain with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.
• Sophie believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If that persistent ache in my lower back that just won't quit is hindering your ability to returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun, a personalized plan focusing on reduced swelling and inflammation in injured areas can make all the difference.
• For those whose awful foot pain first thing in the morning, like I'm walking on glass (plantar fasciitis) has made being able to carry your baby or toddler without straining your back or arms seem like a distant memory, Sophie's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward restored joint function, leading to smoother and more coordinated movements. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to being able to carry your baby or toddler without straining your back or arms with greater comfort and renewed confidence.

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

Sophie practices at the CIUSSS de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean in Jonquière, situated within a centrally-located clinic in the heart of the Jonquière neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is easily accessible and conveniently situated near various community services and pharmacies. Patients can reach the clinic via multiple public transit routes, making it straightforward to attend appointments. 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).

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access a Physiotherapy Technologist directly, without a physician's referral, under the principles of direct access. However, while a referral is not always legally required to receive treatment, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify with your insurance provider before booking your appointment.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages improve their movement, function, and overall well-being. A registered Physiotherapy Technologist uses evidence-based techniques like targeted exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and personalized education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries, pain conditions, and physical impairments affecting your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and even your cardiorespiratory system. It can help you reduce pain, increase mobility and strength, recover from surgery, prevent future injuries, and enhance your quality of life.

What types of conditions do Physiotherapy Technologists at CIUSSS de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean treat?

Sophie treats a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain (Persistent Post-Surgical Pain), joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries (like General Balance Deficits and Increased Fall Risk), and nerve pain. Many of her treatments involve modalities like Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation and Therapeutic Ultrasound Application, alongside patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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 use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC (if meeting their criteria) might be covered, but private clinic physiotherapy is usually not. It is important to verify your specific coverage with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for possible reimbursement.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a fundamental part of physiotherapy care. Sophie will prescribe exercises tailored to your condition and goals, designed to supplement in-clinic treatments, promote recovery, and empower you with self-management tools. Active participation in your home program is essential for achieving the best outcomes.

CIUSSS de Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
2230, Rue de l'hôpital
Jonquière, QC G7X 7X2

Phone: (418) 615-4753

Sophie Gravel-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.