Stephanie Lafond – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Stephanie Lafond is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale - Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec in Québec, QC, Stephanie 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, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions, providing personalized treatment plans that promote recovery, enhance performance, and prevent injuries. Whether managing acute injuries like sprains and strains or supporting chronic pain and arthritis management, Stephanie's approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each adult patient, with an emphasis on optimizing movement and function.

Stephanie's focus extends to the health and mobility of older adults, helping them maintain strength, balance, and independence through evidence-based physiotherapy interventions. Her expertise encompasses post-operative rehabilitation, fall prevention strategies, and management of age-related conditions like osteoporosis. With a compassionate and proactive approach, Stephanie aims to empower her patients to lead active, healthy lifestyles and achieve their wellness goals.

Having completed her degree in Physiotherapy, Stephanie brings clinical experience and a strong commitment to ongoing professional development. She has developed particular interests in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Geriatric Physiotherapy/Seniors' Health, ensuring her practices remain current and effective. Fluent in French, Stephanie works collaboratively with her patients, actively involving them in their recovery process to maximize outcomes and foster lasting health improvements.

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

Arthritis

• 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.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and potential deformity in multiple joints, often symmetrically. Physiotherapy aims to manage pain, maintain joint function and mobility, improve strength and endurance, provide joint protection strategies, and support self-management.

Back Neck Pain

• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg resulting from irritation or compression of a spinal nerve, often managed effectively with physiotherapy techniques like McKenzie method or neural mobilization.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: Pain and muscle tension related to ergonomic factors at work or home, muscle imbalances, and suboptimal body mechanics or movement habits.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of neck and related symptoms including pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes arm pain or cognitive difficulties, following a rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck, most typically from a motor vehicle accident.

Neurological

• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurological rehabilitation provided by a Neuro Physiotherapist to help individuals regain independence, maximize their recovery potential, and adapt to any residual impairments following a stroke.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Individualized exercise programs (e.g., strength, aerobic, balance, flexibility), energy conservation techniques, and compensatory strategies tailored by a Neuro Physiotherapist for individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis.
• Muscular Dystrophy / Myopathy - Supportive Physiotherapy Care: Physiotherapy aimed at maintaining optimal function, managing contractures (joint stiffness), optimizing mobility (including prescription of mobility aids), adapting activities, and managing respiratory function (if applicable) for individuals with progressive muscle weakness due to muscular dystrophy or other myopathies.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Stephanie 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: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• 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.
• Manual Therapy (Joint Mobilization & Manipulation): Skilled hands-on techniques, including gentle joint mobilizations (smooth, rhythmic movements) and, where appropriate and authorized, joint manipulations (quick, precise thrusts) to restore optimal movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Stephanie. 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 la Capitale-Nationale - Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Stephanie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• For those whose needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity has made playing in your competitive volleyball league again seem like a distant memory, Stephanie's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward feeling more stable and confident on their feet, especially on uneven surfaces. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to playing in your competitive volleyball league again with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Patients struggling with that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity can find dedicated and compassionate support from Stephanie. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving improved circulation and tissue healing, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as attending and enjoying your children's or grandchildren's sporting events.
• At Stephanie's physiotherapy practice, individuals with that 'pins and needles' feeling that won't go away are guided towards improved performance in work-related physical demands. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as driving for longer periods without neck or back pain.

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

Stephanie practices at the CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale - Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec, situated in a central Québec neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easily accessible for patients. It is well-connected by local public transit routes, ensuring ease of access for individuals coming from various parts of the city. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the Physiothérapeute to easily access and assess the area being treated, and permits you to move freely for any exercises or movements. For example, shorts are ideal for knee, hip, or ankle issues, while a tank top or loose t-shirt works well for shoulder, neck, or upper back problems. Athletic wear or gym attire is generally a good choice. You may also be provided with a gown if needed.

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy services in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC (if meeting their criteria) might be covered. It’s important to verify your specific eligibility with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans, as some extended health benefits may cover physiotherapy services in private clinics.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, in almost all cases, you will receive a customized home exercise program. These exercises are carefully chosen by your Physiothérapeute to specifically target your issues and help you achieve your functional goals faster and more effectively. Performing them as recommended is very important for your progress and for maintaining the improvements you make during your clinic visits.

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, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy before your first appointment.

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

A Physiothérapeute holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnose, and create treatment plans independently. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician, assisting with treatments and exercises but not diagnosing or establishing treatment plans independently. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

During your first visit, the Physiothérapeute will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and goals. A physical assessment will follow to identify the cause of your condition. The therapist will then explain their findings, collaborate with you to set treatment goals, and outline a plan of care. You may receive initial advice, exercises, or hands-on treatment to begin your recovery.

CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale - Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec
2601, Chemin de la Canardière
Québec, QC G1J 2G3

Phone: (418) 663-5000

Stephanie Lafond 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.