Stéphanie Bourbonnais – Physiotherapist | Sherbrooke, QC

Stéphanie Bourbonnais is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Université de Sherbrooke / École de réadaptation in Sherbrooke, QC. Stéphanie is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach emphasizes understanding each individual's unique needs, fostering a welcoming environment where patients feel supported and empowered throughout their rehabilitation journey.

Her physiotherapy practice addresses a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Stéphanie also offers specialized assessment and treatment for conditions related to the pelvic floor and surrounding region for all genders, including issues such as incontinence, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and pre/post-natal concerns. She serves children, adolescents, and adults, tailoring her interventions to support optimal recovery and long-term wellness.

With a solid educational background and extensive clinical experience, Stéphanie Bourbonnais has developed skills and a particular interest in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Pelvic Health Physiotherapy. She remains committed to ongoing professional development, ensuring her practice incorporates the latest evidence-based techniques. Stéphanie’s philosophy centers on a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. She promotes preventative care and long-term wellness within the Sherbrooke community through proactive physiotherapy. Stéphanie is fluent in English and French, enabling her to connect effectively with diverse patients and provide comprehensive care in both languages.

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

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): Individualized exercise programs and pain management strategies tailored for psoriatic arthritis to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis focuses on maintaining spinal mobility and flexibility (especially extension), improving posture, strengthening core and back muscles, managing pain, and providing education on self-management and regular exercise.

Chronic Pain

• Persistent Post-Surgical Pain (Chronic): Physiotherapy for managing pain that lingers long after surgical recovery, employing strategies such as graded motor imagery, desensitization techniques, specific exercises, manual therapy (if appropriate), and pain education to address complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or other chronic post-operative pain states.
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) - Supportive Care: A careful and specialized physiotherapy approach for CRPS, focusing on pain reduction, functional restoration, and supporting you through this complex condition.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) - Activity Management: Physiotherapy support for individuals with CFS/ME, focusing on developing personalized pacing strategies, energy conservation techniques, gentle mobility exercises (within energy limits), and education on symptom management to improve daily function and quality of life while respecting the illness's limitations.

Joint Pain

• Tendinopathy/Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Rotator Cuff, Tennis/Golfer's Elbow): Conditions like 'jumper's knee' (patellar tendinopathy), 'swimmer's shoulder' (rotator cuff tendinopathy), or 'tennis elbow' (lateral epicondylitis) caused by tendon issues that limit your ability to perform specific tasks.
• Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Spine, Hands, Other Joints): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in affected joints like the knees, hips, spine, or hands.

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

• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiothérapeute to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: A variety of hands-on methods such as therapeutic massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release style techniques to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and enhance tissue flexibility.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): Assessing your fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential risk factors for injury or re-injury.
• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Helping you understand how your posture impacts your musculoskeletal health and providing you with tools for lasting postural improvement and pain relief.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Application of precise, passive movements to joints to decrease stiffness, relieve pain, and facilitate easier, more comfortable movement.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Stéphanie. 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 Université de Sherbrooke / École de réadaptation, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Stéphanie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• When an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from doing returning to a specific physical hobby you had to give up due to pain, physiotherapy with Stéphanie can help you work towards a deeper understanding of their condition and how to manage it proactively for long-term well-being. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Through personalized physiotherapy at Stéphanie's clinic, common concerns like trouble with everyday tasks because of pain or weakness in my hands or grip are thoroughly assessed and addressed with the objective of increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings. This often involves a combination of in-clinic treatment, education, and self-management strategies, helping people to once again enjoy activities like going on birdwatching outings in various terrains.
• Discover how physiotherapy with Stéphanie can help you move beyond dealing with pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues (for both men and women). The focus is on improved joint health and a slowing of degenerative processes through better biomechanics, enabling a joyful return to the activities you love, such as taking energetic, long walks with your dog every day.

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

Stéphanie practices at the Université de Sherbrooke / École de réadaptation, situated in the Fleurimont West (Hospital Area) neighborhood of Sherbrooke. This private institution is conveniently located near Plateau St-Joseph, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. The clinic is well-connected via the Société de transport de Sherbrooke (STS), ensuring convenient transit options for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Your first physiotherapy appointment, which includes a detailed assessment and the development of your initial treatment plan, usually takes about 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact duration of each session will depend on the nature of your treatment and what your Physiothérapeute has planned for that specific visit to best help you progress.

What is Université de Sherbrooke / École de réadaptation's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee of 50% of the service cost or a set amount like $50 may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments (no-shows) without sufficient notice. Please contact our clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

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, known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first visit to confirm whether a referral is necessary for 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 may be covered if meeting specific criteria. Always verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage details.

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

It is recommended to wear or bring clothing that allows unrestricted movement and provides easy access for your physiotherapist to examine or treat the targeted area. For example, shorts for knee issues or sleeveless tops for shoulder assessments. Comfortable, breathable clothing helps facilitate effective treatment and assessment.

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

A Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnosis, and create treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises without independently diagnosing or planning care. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Université de Sherbrooke / École de réadaptation
3001, 12e Avenue Nord, Pavillon Gérald-Lasalle (FMSS)
Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4

Phone: (450) 463-1835

Stéphanie Bourbonnais 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.