Vanessa Ross-Gendron – Physiotherapy Technologist | Rimouski, QC

Vanessa Ross-Gendron is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS du Bas-St-Laurent in Rimouski, QC, Vanessa is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role involves assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by a physiotherapist or physician, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Vanessa takes pride in fostering a welcoming environment where patients feel supported and empowered throughout their rehabilitation journey.

With a focus on serving senior patients, Vanessa understands the unique needs of this community. Her approach emphasizes personalized care, ensuring each individual receives tailored interventions that promote independence, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being. Whether helping someone regain mobility after an injury or managing chronic conditions, Vanessa’s compassionate and attentive approach ensures that every patient feels valued and understood.

Vanessa completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated valuable clinical experience that fuels her ongoing commitment to professional development. She stays current with evidence-based practices, continuously refining her skills in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. Fluent in French, Vanessa communicates effectively with her diverse patient population, ensuring clear understanding and active participation in their care plan.

Vanessa Ross-Gendron provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Common Msk

• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, Impingement, Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis): Common shoulder problems such as rotator cuff issues (tendinopathy, small tears), impingement syndrome, or adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) significantly affecting arm function and daily comfort.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.
• Muscle Strains and Tears: A 'pulled' muscle, often occurring during activities like sprinting, jumping, lifting, or sudden changes in direction, causing immediate pain and difficulty using the muscle.

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

• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: A progressive approach to rebuilding your physical condition, allowing for a safe return to daily activities, work demands, and hobbies you enjoy.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: A progressive program designed to build a strong and stable core, improving your body's foundation for all movements and reducing strain on other structures.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: Ultrasound therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to prepare tissues for manual therapy or exercise, or to manage acute and chronic soft tissue injuries.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Vanessa. 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 du Bas-St-Laurent, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Vanessa frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• With Vanessa's help, managing managing stiffness, tremors, and movement challenges with Parkinson's disease to achieve a feeling of being 'unstuck' and more supple becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• Vanessa frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets improved hand and wrist function for tasks requiring dexterity and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like joining in on pickup basketball games at the local court.
• Struggling with the frustration of persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady? Vanessa develops individualized physiotherapy programs specifically aimed at achieving feeling more resilient and less vulnerable to minor strains or injuries. This is key to helping you get back to doing being able to perform deep cleaning tasks around the house with confidence and significantly reduced discomfort.

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

Vanessa practices at CISSS du Bas-St-Laurent, situated in a clinic within the central Rimouski neighborhood of Rimouski. This Centre d'hébergement et de soins de longue durée (CHSLD) facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive healthcare. The clinic is accessible via local public transit routes, ensuring that patients from various parts of the community can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, manual therapy encompasses a range of 'hands-on' interventions. Your Physiotherapy Technologist may use these techniques to help reduce your pain, increase joint movement, relax tight muscles, or improve the mobility of your nerves. Common approaches include joint glides, sustained pressures, specific soft tissue massage, and, when indicated, joint manipulations. It's a key part of helping your body move better.

Is physiotherapy treatment supposed to be painful?

While some physiotherapy techniques might feel uncomfortable or cause a temporary increase in soreness (similar to muscle soreness after a new workout), especially when working on stiff joints or tight muscles, it should not be excessively or intolerably painful. Your Physiotherapy Technologist will discuss what sensations you might expect with different treatments and will always aim to adjust the intensity and techniques to ensure you are as comfortable as possible while still achieving therapeutic benefits. Constant communication about your comfort level is very important.

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

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed master's level university education, granting them the autonomy to assess patients, make a physiotherapy diagnosis, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. They can also perform certain advanced procedures if they have the required additional qualifications. A Technologue en physiothérapie, on the other hand, has a college diploma (DEC) focused on the technical application of physiotherapy treatments. They play a crucial role in delivering care by implementing treatment plans designed by a physiotherapist or physician, assisting patients with their exercises, applying modalities, and reporting progress back to the supervising professional.

How can I book an appointment at CISSS du Bas-St-Laurent?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly at (418) 724-4111 during our business hours. Many of our practitioners also offer the convenience of online booking through our website. Our friendly reception team will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable appointment time with the right physiotherapist for your needs.

Is there parking available at or near CISSS du Bas-St-Laurent?

Yes, there is ample free patient parking available directly in front of and beside our building. Look for the designated patient spots.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to initiate treatment, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider before your appointment.

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. Some coverage may be available if the care is received through public hospitals or CLSCs under specific conditions, but private outpatient physiotherapy is typically not reimbursed. Always verify your eligibility with RAMQ and check your insurance plan for coverage details.

CISSS du Bas-St-Laurent
645, Boulevard Saint-Germain O
Rimouski, QC G5L 3S2

Phone: (418) 724-4111

Vanessa Ross-Gendron 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.