Valérie Meloche – Physiotherapist | Saint-Jérôme, QC

Valérie Meloche is a dedicated Physiothérapeute. Practicing at CISSS des Laurentides in Saint-Jérôme, QC, Valérie 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, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions, ensuring that each patient receives tailored assessment and treatment. Valérie’s compassionate approach focuses on empowering her patients through education, active involvement in their recovery, and evidence-based practices to promote lasting results.

Her scope of practice includes managing conditions such as acute injuries, chronic pain, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Valérie offers specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system issues, aiming to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and decrease fall risk. Her goal is to support her adult patients in regaining strength, mobility, and confidence to return to their daily activities and hobbies with renewed comfort and safety.

Valérie completed her degree in Physiotherapy with a strong commitment to ongoing professional development. She has developed particular expertise in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation. She believes in a patient-centered philosophy, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting. Valérie’s dedication to continuous learning and her empathetic approach ensure that her patients receive the highest standard of care. She is fluent in French.

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

Arthritis

• 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.
• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Supportive physiotherapy care for joint recovery and function after gout flares, focusing on restoring range of motion, reducing inflammation, and providing advice on joint protection and lifestyle factors.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Individualized exercise programs and pain management strategies tailored for psoriatic arthritis to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Back Neck Pain

• 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.
• Postural Back/Neck Pain: A common cause of persistent back and neck pain due to the cumulative strain of prolonged sitting, standing, or performing tasks in non-ideal positions.
• Herniated Disc / Sciatica / Radiculopathy: Sharp, shooting, electric-like, or burning pain that travels along the path of a nerve due to issues with intervertebral discs or other spinal structures.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Nerve compression symptoms due to a narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal or the small openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina), most commonly in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions.

Post Surgical

• Post-Knee Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Knee Arthroplasty - TKA/PKA): Specialized physiotherapy after knee joint replacement surgery to help you regain independence, optimize your surgical outcome, and return to desired daily activities and hobbies.
• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): A progressive rehabilitation program after surgery to fix a broken bone, helping you regain full use of your arm or leg and return to your normal activities.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): A carefully managed and individualized physiotherapy program to help you regain confidence in your spine, improve functional capacity, and prevent future issues after spinal surgery.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): Physiotherapy rehabilitation after total or partial hip replacement surgery, aimed at restoring mobility, strength, balance, and improving your gait pattern, allowing you to perform daily activities safely and effectively.

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

• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: A carefully selected set of exercises specific to your condition and abilities, aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, and preventing future issues.

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 des Laurentides, 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:

• Living with pain or weakness that's stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies doesn't have to be your norm. Valérie applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards increased endurance for walking, allowing for longer and more enjoyable outings, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder pain.
• Patients struggling with an old ankle sprain that never seems to fully heal and still feels weak can find dedicated and compassionate support from Valérie. The therapeutic focus is squarely on achieving a return to intimacy without the fear of pain or discomfort, using a range of physiotherapy services to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as running your usual 5k route without knee pain.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from trying to get back to my best after a frustrating sports injury and achieved learning specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and maintain their progress under the skilled care of Valérie. This renewed physical ability often allows them to re-engage with beloved activities such as performing self-care tasks like hair washing or reaching your back with a new lease on life.

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

Valérie practices at CISSS des Laurentides, situated in the Bellefeuille Sector neighborhood of Saint-Jérôme. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Gare Saint-Jérôme, accessible by train and bus, and is served by exo (Secteur Laurentides - Bus). 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 in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC might be covered if specific criteria are met. It is important to verify eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

What types of conditions do Physiothérapeutes at CISSS des Laurentides treat?

Valérie and her colleagues treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes issues like back and neck pain (such as whiplash or disc herniations), joint problems (arthritis, post-surgical recovery), sports injuries, nerve pain, and balance disorders. They often incorporate Core Stability & Strengthening Training, Manual Therapy, and patient education to help you achieve your functional goals.

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 check with your insurance provider before your appointment.

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

Please bring your health card, any relevant doctor’s referral, reports of imaging tests, a list of medications, and your insurance information if you wish to use direct billing. Wearing comfortable clothing is recommended to facilitate assessments and treatments.

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 and can perform assessments, establish diagnoses, and create treatment plans. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and works under supervision, applying treatments prescribed by a physiotherapist or physician. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

What is CISSS des Laurentides's appointment cancellation policy?

We kindly ask for at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee. Please contact the clinic as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment.

What should I expect during my first physiotherapy appointment?

The initial session involves a comprehensive assessment, including discussions about your health history and physical tests to evaluate your movement and strength. The goal is to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include exercises, education, and initial hands-on care to support your recovery.

CISSS des Laurentides
531, Rue Laviolette
Saint-Jérôme, QC J7Y 2T8

Phone: (450) 560-9898

Valérie Meloche 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.