Thierry Fontaine – Physiotherapist | Chambly, QC

Thierry Fontaine is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at Kinatex Sports Physio Proactif Chambly in Chambly, QC. Thierry is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered physiotherapy care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). His approach focuses on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and balance-related conditions, with an emphasis on performance and athletic recovery. Thierry specializes in helping active individuals and athletes recover from injuries, optimize their movement, and enhance their physical resilience to prevent future issues. His personalized treatment plans aim to empower patients to return to their peak performance levels safely and efficiently.

Thierry's role extends beyond injury management; he offers comprehensive assessment and tailored interventions for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction. His goal is to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and minimize fall risk, especially in older children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Thierry believes in a holistic, evidence-based approach that incorporates manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and patient education to facilitate lasting results. His dedication to ongoing professional development ensures that he remains current with the latest physiotherapy techniques and innovations to serve his patients effectively.

With a solid educational foundation and clinical experience, Thierry has developed a particular interest in orthopedic and musculoskeletal physiotherapy, as well as vestibular and balance rehabilitation. He is fluent in both English and French, enabling him to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population. Thierry's practice philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies. His collaborative approach emphasizes working closely with each individual to achieve their movement and functional goals, fostering confidence and independence in their physical health.

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

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): Conservative physiotherapy management for trigger digit, which may include splinting to rest the tendon, specific tendon gliding exercises, activity modification advice, modalities to reduce inflammation, and education to prevent recurrence.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Focused physiotherapy care for complex hand and wrist problems, often involving custom splinting or orthosis fabrication, manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization), specific exercises to restore dexterity, strength, and range of motion, scar management, and sensory re-education.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: Physiotherapy management of acute and persistent symptoms of a concussion, including addressing associated neck pain/dysfunction (cervicogenic component), vestibular (balance/dizziness) issues, oculomotor (eye movement) problems, and exertional intolerance.

Post Surgical

• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): A structured physiotherapy program to manage post-operative pain and swelling, improve knee flexibility and strength, and re-educate your gait pattern after a TKA or PKA.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Supportive physiotherapy to aid your recovery and help you manage symptoms after back or neck surgery, focusing on education, safe movement strategies, and specific exercises.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): A progressive exercise program, often combined with manual therapy, designed to gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and coordination following your operation.

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

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Management & Rehabilitation: Comprehensive care for concussion recovery, including initial assessment of symptoms (headache, dizziness, etc.), management of associated neck pain or dysfunction, vestibular and oculomotor (eye movement) rehabilitation, and guided, gradual return-to-learn, work, and sport protocols.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Comprehensive assessment of your fall risk factors with individualized interventions, including balance exercises, strength training, gait re-training, and home safety advice to help you prevent falls.
• Rehabilitation for Age-Related Deconditioning & Loss of Autonomy: Targeted physiotherapy programs to help seniors regain strength, endurance, balance, and functional abilities after an illness, surgery, hospitalization, or a period of inactivity or decline.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Specialized assessment and treatment techniques, such as canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - BPPV), to address symptoms of dizziness, vertigo (spinning sensations), and imbalance caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A thorough evaluation by your Physiotherapist to accurately diagnose movement dysfunctions, injuries, and the underlying sources of your pain.
• Geriatric Physiotherapy & Seniors' Health: Helping older adults stay active, mobile, independent, and confident in their physical abilities through compassionate and evidence-based physiotherapy.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Thierry. 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 Kinatex Sports Physio Proactif Chambly, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Thierry frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many individuals seek help from Thierry, their physiotherapist, when that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve feeling empowered to take control of their physical health journey, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing.
• Thierry frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of knee pain, especially when going up/down stairs or after a run. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets a noticeable improvement in their gait and walking efficiency and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain.
• Tired of working on getting back to normal after a fracture or other surgery interfering with engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours? Thierry uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve getting back to hiking, running, or cycling pain-free and with renewed vigor and regain your freedom of movement.

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

Thierry practices at Kinatex Sports Physio Proactif Chambly, situated in a modern clinic located in the heart of the central Chambly neighborhood. This private physiotherapy facility is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access care as part of their daily routines. The clinic is well-connected by public transit routes, ensuring accessible options for individuals traveling from different parts of Chambly and surrounding areas. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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).

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

In Quebec, physiotherapy coverage varies. Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services in private clinics, and patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some public coverage may be available when receiving care directly within a hospital or CLSC if meeting specific criteria. It’s recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private health insurance plans, as many offer substantial coverage for physiotherapy in private clinics.

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

Patients in Quebec can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, which is 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's requirements before your first appointment.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

The primary goal of physiotherapy is to reduce pain and improve function, not to cause significant or lasting discomfort. Some techniques or exercises might cause mild, temporary soreness, especially if tissues are sensitive or inflamed. Your Physiothérapeute will always work within your tolerance, communicate clearly about what to expect, and encourage feedback. If you experience significant pain during treatment, please inform your therapist immediately so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

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

For your first visit, bring your provincial health card (e.g., RAMQ card), any relevant medical reports or imaging results, a list of current medications, and your private insurance information if applicable. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

Is there parking available at or near Kinatex Sports Physio Proactif Chambly?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for designated patient spots. Additional street parking or paid parking options may also be available nearby; please check local signage for restrictions.

What is Kinatex Sports Physio Proactif Chambly's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand schedules can change unexpectedly. To accommodate all patients, we request at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. A fee may be charged for late cancellations or no-shows without sufficient notice. Please contact the clinic as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment.

Kinatex Sports Physio Proactif Chambly
250, Boulevard Fréchette
Chambly, QC J3L 2Z5

Phone: (450) 658-6868

Thierry Fontaine 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.