Stéphanie Deschênes – Physiotherapist | Laval, QC

Stéphanie Deschênes is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Pediatric Physiotherapy Focus). Practicing at ECOLE JEAN PIAGET in Laval, QC, Stéphanie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role involves providing specialized physiotherapy services for infants, children, and adolescents to address developmental delays, congenital conditions such as torticollis, orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, and to promote optimal motor function and participation. Stéphanie’s approach emphasizes early intervention, individualized treatment plans, and empowering families with strategies to support their child's growth and recovery.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, Stéphanie aims to help her young patients achieve their developmental milestones and regain confidence in their movements. She works closely with parents, caregivers, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care tailored to each child's unique needs. Stéphanie’s dedication extends to serving children, adolescents, and adults, striving to enhance their physical performance and overall well-being through targeted physiotherapy interventions.

Stéphanie Deschênes completed her degree in Physiotherapy with a focus on pediatric care. Her clinical experience has deepened her commitment to ongoing professional development, keeping her updated on the latest physiotherapy techniques and research. She has developed particular expertise and interest in pediatric physiotherapy, ensuring her practice remains at the forefront of effective, innovative treatment options for her young patients. Her philosophy centers on promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Laval community, emphasizing education, active participation, and evidence-based approaches.

Fluent in English and French, Stéphanie strives to communicate clearly and empathetically with her diverse patient population, fostering a supportive environment where everyone feels confident and motivated to achieve their health goals.

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

Sports Injury

• Stress Fractures (Activity-Related - Conservative Management/Rehab): Tiny cracks or severe bruising within a bone caused by repetitive force, overuse, or cumulative stress, common in weight-bearing bones of the lower leg (tibia, fibula), foot (metatarsals, navicular), or hip in athletes involved in high-impact sports.
• Ligament Sprains (e.g., ACL, MCL, PCL, Ankle Ligaments): Damage to ligaments that can range from mild (Grade 1 - overstretched) to moderate (Grade 2 - partial tear) to severe (Grade 3 - complete tear), impacting joint integrity and function.
• Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): An overuse injury affecting the lower leg, common in athletes, dancers, and military recruits, characterized by diffuse pain along the tibia.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee / Anterior Knee Pain): Dull, aching pain in the front of the knee, often related to issues with the alignment and movement of the patella within the femoral groove.

Common Msk

• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Symptoms in your hand or wrist that impact your ability to perform your job, hobbies, or essential self-care tasks, addressed by specialized hand physiotherapy.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort, limited range of motion, and persistent tension in the cervical spine (neck), often related to posture, an injury, stress, or sleeping position.

Pediatric

• Toe Walking (Idiopathic / Habitual): Addressing habitual toe walking in children when other neurological or orthopedic causes have been ruled out by a medical professional.
• Congenital Muscular Torticollis / Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome): Helping your baby achieve a centered head position, full neck mobility, and improve their head shape through specialized physiotherapy techniques and parent education.
• Pediatric Sports Injuries & Growing Pains (e.g., Osgood-Schlatter, Sever's Disease): Specialized physiotherapy for sports injuries in the pediatric population, considering growth plate sensitivity and the importance of age-appropriate rehabilitation.

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

• Congenital Muscular Torticollis & Plagiocephaly (Flat Head) Treatment: Early intervention physiotherapy crucial for correcting infant neck posture, promoting symmetrical head and neck movement, and improving head shape, often preventing the need for helmet therapy or more invasive measures.
• Neural Mobilization Techniques (Nerve Gliding): Gentle, specific movements and mobilizations designed to address nerve-related pain (like sciatica or carpal tunnel symptoms), tingling, numbness, or restrictions by improving the nerve's ability to glide freely and reducing irritation.
• Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Active patient participation through guided, gentle muscle contractions to restore normal joint play, reduce muscle guarding, and improve tissue length.
• Pediatric Physiotherapy (Infants, Children & Adolescents): Specialized physiotherapy assessment and treatment for a wide range of conditions affecting infants, children, and adolescents, including developmental delays (e.g., not meeting motor milestones), congenital muscular torticollis, plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome), orthopedic conditions (e.g., fractures, growing pains, sports injuries like Osgood-Schlatter or Sever's disease), and some neurological issues.
• Soft Tissue Mobilization & Release Techniques: Hands-on treatment focusing on your body's soft tissues to restore pliability, reduce discomfort, and optimize movement quality.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Manual treatments specifically designed to improve joint mechanics, alleviate discomfort, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion in the spine or limbs.

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 ECOLE JEAN PIAGET, 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:

• If a 'frozen shoulder' feeling, where my shoulder feels completely stuck is preventing you from fully enjoying sleeping soundly through the night without being woken by pain or discomfort, Stéphanie offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining getting back their independence with daily activities and personal care, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.
• Patients struggling with difficulty moving one side of my body or walking easily after a stroke can find dedicated and compassionate support from Stéphanie. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving improved balance and coordination, leading to safer and more confident mobility in seniors, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as using garden tools effectively and without pain.
• Tired of trouble with a constantly stiff and sore neck, making turning my head a pain interfering with pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty? Stéphanie uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Stéphanie practices at ECOLE JEAN PIAGET, located in the Chomedey East neighborhood of Laval. This public healthcare facility is conveniently situated near Station de la Concorde (Metro/exo) and is accessible via Société de transport de Laval (STL). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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 for these services. Coverage may be available if the care is received directly within a public hospital or CLSC, provided specific criteria are met. It is strongly recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private insurance plan for coverage details.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It’s helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters from other healthcare providers if you were referred, and any reports or images from relevant medical tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) related to your condition. If you have private insurance coverage for physiotherapy, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing purposes. Comfortable attire that allows for easy movement during the assessment is also recommended.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access 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 your individual insurance requirements before your appointment.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Stéphanie will prescribe exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises help manage symptoms, facilitate recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Active participation in your home program is essential for optimal results.

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 and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, and create treatment plans. They can also perform certain restricted activities if certified. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, applying prescribed treatments and guiding exercises but does not diagnose or create treatment plans independently. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

ECOLE JEAN PIAGET
3733, Rue 2e
Laval, QC H7V 1H9

Phone: (450) 662-7000

Stéphanie Deschênes 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.