Stéphane Lafrenière – Physiotherapy Technologist | Shawinigan, QC

Stéphane Lafrenière is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at Clinique de physiothérapie de la Mauricie in Shawinigan, QC, Stéphane is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. His 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. Stéphane primarily serves adult patients, ensuring personalized care tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.
With a solid foundation in physiotherapy, Stéphane completed their degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated valuable clinical experience. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practices, continuously updating his skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Stéphane’s approach emphasizes a compassionate understanding of each patient's circumstances, fostering a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered and confident in their rehabilitation journey.
Stéphane’s practice philosophy centers around a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. He promotes preventative care and long-term wellness for the Shawinigan community through proactive physiotherapy. Stéphane is fluent in English and French, enabling effective communication with a diverse patient population and ensuring that language is never a barrier to receiving quality care.

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

Common Msk

• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): A broad term for common injuries affecting muscles, tendons (tendinitis/tendinopathy), ligaments (sprains), joint capsules (capsulitis), and bursae (bursitis), leading to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.

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

• 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.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Application of therapeutic heat to prepare tissues for exercise, manual therapy, or stretching, or to manage chronic muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: Utilizing therapeutic laser to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce pain signals, and manage inflammation as part of your comprehensive physiotherapy care.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Stéphane. 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 Clinique de physiothérapie de la Mauricie, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Stéphane frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Physiotherapy with Stéphane can be a transformative turning point for those affected by widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia. The shared goal is achieving moving more freely and with greater agility than they have in years, paving the way for you to enjoy comfortably cooking and meal prepping for your family and a more active, vibrant life.
• Many individuals seek help from Stéphane, their physiotherapist, when trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve running their usual distance comfortably and with improved form, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like driving for longer periods without neck or back pain.
• The journey to sleeping more soundly through the night due to reduced pain and discomfort when faced with persistent tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot is made smoother and more effective with Stéphane's expert physiotherapy care, often leading to a fulfilling and active return to pastimes like doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain.

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

Stéphane practices at Clinique de physiothérapie de la Mauricie, situated in a central Shawinigan neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located within a modern facility that is easily accessible to the local community, with proximity to various community services and pharmacies. The clinic can be reached via multiple public transit routes, making it straightforward for patients to attend their appointments. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

It's recommended to wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and provides easy access for your physiotherapist to examine the body part being assessed or treated. For instance, if you have a knee problem, please wear or bring shorts. For shoulder issues, a sleeveless top or a top with loose armholes is often helpful. The goal is to make the assessment and treatment as effective as possible.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Clinique de physiothérapie de la Mauricie or your province directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed 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.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the specific requirements of your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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 might be covered if meeting certain criteria, but private clinic services are typically not reimbursed. It is recommended to check with RAMQ and your private insurer for details on coverage.

How can I book an appointment at Clinique de physiothérapie de la Mauricie?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (819) 538-0048 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website at www.physiomauricie.ca. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

Clinique de physiothérapie de la Mauricie
1501, Avenue de Grand-Mère
Shawinigan, QC G9T 2K2

Phone: (819) 538-0048 | Website: www.physiomauricie.ca

Stéphane Lafrenière 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.