Valérie Thermil-Léandre – Physiotherapist | Saint-Jérôme, QC

Valérie Thermil-Léandre is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at CISSS des Laurentides in Saint-Jérôme, QC. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Valérie's focus is on addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal and movement-related conditions, emphasizing performance enhancement and recovery for active individuals and athletes. Her approach involves individualized assessment and tailored treatment plans designed to optimize functional outcomes, prevent injuries, and support athletic pursuits.

Valérie specializes in managing conditions related to muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments, including acute injuries such as sprains and strains, as well as chronic pain management, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. She also dedicates a significant part of her practice to serving senior patients, aiming to improve mobility, strength, and balance, thus reducing fall risk and promoting independence. Her holistic approach ensures that each patient receives comprehensive care that considers their unique performance goals and overall wellness.

With a solid educational background and extensive clinical experience, Valérie continually advances her expertise through evidence-based practices. She has developed particular interests in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as well as Geriatric Physiotherapy and Seniors' Health. Valérie believes in a patient-centered philosophy, actively involving individuals in their treatment plans and goal-setting. Fluent in English, French, Haitian Creole, and Spanish, Valérie ensures effective communication and personalized care for a diverse patient population.

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

Back Neck Pain

• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Post-traumatic neck pain, restricted movement, and associated issues common after car accidents, which benefit from early and appropriate physiotherapy intervention.
• 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.
• Spinal Stenosis Symptoms: Back or neck pain accompanied by associated limb symptoms (pain, sensory changes, weakness) due to a constricted spinal canal, which physiotherapy can help manage conservatively.
• 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.

Common Msk

• Musculoskeletal Injuries (General - Tendinitis, Bursitis, Capsulitis, Sprains, Strains): Acute or chronic pain originating from various musculoskeletal sources, such as a pulled muscle (strain), inflamed tendon, or irritated bursa.
• Ankle Sprains and Instability: Weakness, a feeling of the ankle 'giving way' repeatedly, or persistent pain after an initial sprain, indicating a need for targeted physiotherapy to restore stability and function.
• Wrist and Hand Pain (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, Strains): Disorders affecting hand and wrist function, making daily tasks such as gripping objects, typing, writing, or fine motor activities difficult and painful.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Hip problems that interfere with your mobility, sleep, and daily comfort, which can be effectively managed with physiotherapy interventions.

Post Surgical

• 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.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: Specialized physiotherapy following knee ligament reconstruction surgery to ensure a successful recovery, minimize complications (like stiffness or muscle atrophy), and facilitate a safe and confident return to activity and sport, preventing re-injury.
• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A tailored physiotherapy program following hip joint replacement to optimize your recovery, manage pain, ensure adherence to any precautions, and facilitate a return to an active lifestyle.
• 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.

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

• Home-Based Physiotherapy Visits (Mobile Physio): Providing professional physiotherapy assessment, treatment, education, and exercise prescription directly in the comfort and convenience of your home environment, especially for those who have difficulty attending an outpatient clinic due to mobility issues, severe pain, or other constraints.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Specific training programs to enhance your sense of body position, improve your reaction times to unexpected balance disturbances, and build confidence in your ability to move safely in various environments.
• Tele-Rehabilitation / Virtual Physiotherapy Consultations: Effective virtual physiotherapy care to help you manage your condition, progress your rehabilitation, and receive professional advice when in-person visits are challenging or not preferred.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• Geriatric Physiotherapy & Seniors' Health: Addressing common concerns in seniors such as difficulty walking, fear of falling, joint pain and stiffness, and deconditioning, to improve their overall quality of life and ability to participate in meaningful activities.
• Rehabilitation for Age-Related Deconditioning & Loss of Autonomy: Comprehensive support for improving performance in activities of daily living (e.g., dressing, bathing, transferring, cooking) and rebuilding physical confidence and independence in older adults.

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:

• With Valérie's help, managing tendonitis pain flaring up in my shoulder, knee, elbow, or foot to achieve enhanced pelvic floor function and control (for relevant conditions) becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like keeping up with your team during our weekly soccer match.
• The path to recovery from needing help to get moving again after a long period of illness or inactivity and achieving waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness for enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again often starts with expert guidance. Valérie, a skilled physiotherapist, provides just that.
• If needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity is preventing you from fully enjoying pushing a stroller or shopping cart without difficulty, Valérie offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining better managing flare-ups with personalized strategies and feeling more in control of their symptoms, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Valérie practices at the CISSS des Laurentides, situated in the Bellefeuille Sector neighborhood of Saint-Jérôme. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near Cégep de Saint-Jérôme and is easily accessible via exo (Secteur Laurentides - Bus). The clinic is well-positioned to serve the community with accessible parking options; street parking and nearby paid lots provide convenient options for visitors. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

It's not uncommon to experience some temporary soreness or a mild increase in symptoms after certain physiotherapy treatments, especially in the initial stages or if you're starting new exercises. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. However, if you experience a significant or sharp increase in pain, new or worsening neurological symptoms (like numbness, tingling, or weakness), or if your soreness lasts longer than expected, it's important to contact Valérie or your healthcare provider directly. They can provide advice, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or determine if you need to be reassessed.

What is CISSS des Laurentides's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that schedules can change unexpectedly. To ensure we can accommodate all our patients efficiently, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice (or one business day) for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may be waiting for care. A fee of 50% of the service cost or a set amount (e.g., $XX) may be charged for late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or missed appointments without sufficient notice. Please contact the clinic as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your appointment.

What is the difference between a Physiothérapeute and a 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. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma and works under the supervision of a physiotherapist or physician. They apply prescribed treatments, guide exercises, and monitor progress but do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Is physiotherapy covered by RAMQ in Quebec?

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance. Care received within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is advisable to verify eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private or extended health insurance plans for coverage.

Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Physiothérapeute in Quebec?

Patients in Quebec can typically see a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, known as direct access. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment to understand their specific requirements.

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

Phone: (450) 560-9898 | Website: www.santelaurentides.gouv.qc.ca

Valérie Thermil-Léandre 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.