Valérie Lavigne – Physiotherapist | Longueuil, QC

Valérie Lavigne is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Dry Needling and/or Acupuncture Focus). Practicing at CISSS Montérérie-Est (CLSC Simonne-Monet-Chartrand) in Longueuil, QC, Valérie is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes a performance and athletic-oriented philosophy, aiming to optimize movement, reduce pain, and enhance functional capacity for active individuals. Valérie’s treatment strategies are tailored to each patient's unique needs, integrating evidence-based techniques such as dry needling (IMS) and acupuncture as part of a comprehensive plan to manage pain, reduce muscle tension, improve nerve function, and promote healing for various neuromusculoskeletal conditions.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy, Valérie completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated clinical experience that fuels her ongoing commitment to professional development. She has developed a particular interest and expertise in dry needling and acupuncture, applying these modalities to facilitate rapid recovery and improved performance. Her continual pursuit of evidence-based practices ensures her patients benefit from the latest advancements in physiotherapy, especially those seeking to return to sports, high-level activity, or active lifestyles.

Valérie’s practice philosophy centers on empowering her patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies that yield lasting results. She values a collaborative approach, working closely with each individual to set realistic goals and develop personalized treatment plans. Valérie is fluent in English and French, enabling her to effectively communicate with a diverse patient population and ensure comprehensive understanding throughout the rehabilitation process.

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

Chronic Pain

• Fibromyalgia: Physiotherapy approaches for managing the diffuse pain, stiffness, and tenderness associated with fibromyalgia, often involving gentle exercise (e.g., aquatic therapy, tai chi, graded aerobic activity), pain science education, activity pacing, and stress reduction strategies.
• Persistent Post-Surgical Pain (Chronic): Addressing chronic pain syndromes that can unfortunately develop after surgery, focusing on reducing pain, improving movement, and restoring function.
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) - Supportive Care: Supportive physiotherapy as part of a multidisciplinary team approach for this complex and often debilitating chronic pain condition, which typically affects a limb after an injury or surgery and is characterized by severe pain, swelling, changes in skin temperature/color, and altered sensation or movement.

Common Msk

• Muscle Strains and Tears: Damage or tearing of muscle fibers, ranging from a mild overstretch (Grade 1 strain) to a partial or complete rupture (Grade 2 or 3 tear), typically caused by sudden forceful contraction, excessive stretch, or direct trauma.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or stiffness in the wrist, hand, or fingers, often resulting from overuse, repetitive tasks, arthritis, or specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
• 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.
• Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the lumbar spine region, whether it's a sudden onset or a long-lasting issue affecting your daily life.

Back Neck Pain

• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Symptoms like 'neurogenic claudication' – leg pain, cramping, or heaviness with walking or prolonged standing that typically eases with rest or bending forward (flexion).
• 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.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Back or neck pain that often radiates into an arm or leg, potentially with numbness, tingling, weakness, or burning sensations, due to a spinal disc problem (herniation, protrusion, or bulge) compressing or irritating a nearby nerve root (radiculopathy). Sciatica specifically refers to radicular pain down the leg.

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

• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• Chronic & Persistent Pain Management Programs: Personalized physiotherapy programs designed to reduce the impact of chronic pain on your life, helping you to gradually increase activity levels and re-engage in meaningful activities.
• Fibromyalgia & Widespread Pain Management: Improving daily function, energy levels, and reducing pain sensitivity for individuals with fibromyalgia through a carefully progressed and individualized physiotherapy plan.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Utilizing electrophysical agents as an adjunct to your physiotherapy treatments to aid recovery, improve muscle function, manage pain, or reduce swelling, tailored to your specific condition.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Using therapeutic ultrasound as an adjunct treatment to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue, and accelerate the repair of injured soft tissues.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or Interferential Current (IFC) for managing acute or chronic pain conditions by modulating pain signals or promoting the release of endorphins.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Valérie. 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 CISSS Montérérie-Est (CLSC Simonne-Monet-Chartrand), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Valérie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Physiotherapy with Valérie can be a transformative turning point for those affected by soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon, especially after exercise. The shared goal is achieving less reliance on pain medication, trusting more in their body's ability to heal and function, paving the way for you to enjoy doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain and a more active, vibrant life.
• When recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim) is limiting your lifestyle and preventing you from being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children, physiotherapy with Valérie can help you work towards greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments. The aim is to restore optimal function so you can comfortably and safely return to the things you love.
• Patients often come to Valérie feeling defeated by aches and pains that I'm pretty sure are from my bad posture at my desk. With a supportive and targeted physiotherapy approach, achieving reduced muscle tension and a feeling of greater physical ease and resuming going on enjoyable fishing or camping trips again becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

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

Valérie practices at CISSS Montérérie-Est (CLSC Simonne-Monet-Chartrand), situated in the Vieux-Longueuil (Longueuil West) neighborhood of Longueuil. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Place Charles-Le Moyne and is easily accessible via the Réseau de transport de Longueuil (RTL). 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, physiotherapy coverage varies. Generally, RAMQ does not directly cover physiotherapy services in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Some coverage may be available through specific programs or for certain populations, such as post-hospitalization or for seniors in public facilities. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult your private extended health insurance plan for coverage details.

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 and is authorized to perform assessments, establish diagnoses, and create treatment plans independently. 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 not diagnosing or independently establishing treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

Physiotherapy should not be painful. You might experience some discomfort or a gentle stretch, especially during initial treatment phases, but it should never cause distress. Valérie ensures treatments are tailored to your comfort level, guiding you through each step to promote healing and recovery without unnecessary pain.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at CISSS Montérérie-Est (CLSC Simonne-Monet-Chartrand) treat?

Valérie treats a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, back and neck pain, joint issues such as arthritis, sports injuries, nerve pain, and post-surgical recovery. Her focus on dry needling and acupuncture complements her treatments for pain management, muscle tension, and performance enhancement.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access physiotherapy directly without a physician’s referral (known as direct access). However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify your insurance policy before your appointment.

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

To ensure a smooth first visit, please bring your health card, relevant medical reports or imaging results, a list of medications, and your insurance information for direct billing if applicable. Wearing comfortable clothes is also recommended to facilitate assessment and treatment.

CISSS Montérérie-Est (CLSC Simonne-Monet-Chartrand)
1303, Boulevard Jacques-Cartier E
Longueuil, QC J4M 2Y8

Phone: (450) 463-2850

Valérie Lavigne 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.