Véronique Proteau – Physiotherapist | Nicolet, QC

Véronique Proteau is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at CIUSSS de-la-Mauricie-et-du-Centre-du-Québec (Centre Christ-Roi) in Nicolet, QC. She is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Véronique’s approach emphasizes comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plans to address a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and functional conditions. Her focus is on helping patients recover mobility, reduce pain, and regain independence through evidence-based physiotherapy techniques.

Véronique's role encompasses treating individuals of all ages, from infants and young children to adults and seniors. She specializes in managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains, chronic pain conditions, arthritis, and post-operative rehabilitation. Her expertise extends to assisting patients in their recovery following neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. Véronique's holistic approach aims to improve overall quality of life, functional capacity, and well-being for her diverse patient population.

With a solid foundation in Physiotherapy education, Véronique has developed her clinical skills through extensive experience and ongoing professional development. She has particular interests in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Neurological Physiotherapy. Her practice philosophy is rooted in empowering patients through clear education about their conditions and practical self-management strategies for lasting results. Véronique is fluent in both English and French, ensuring effective communication with her diverse clientele.

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

Post Surgical

• Post-Hip Replacement Rehabilitation (Total or Partial Hip Arthroplasty - THA/PHA): A structured physiotherapy plan to help you recover full function, independence, and confidence in your new hip after replacement surgery.
• 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.

Common Msk

• 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.
• Neck Pain and Stiffness: Painful neck conditions that can make head movements difficult, sometimes leading to headaches or radiating pain into the shoulders.

Arthritis

• Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Exercises and advice to manage the impact of gout on your joints, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term joint damage.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Tailored exercise programs (including range of motion, strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercises), pain relief modalities, and education on joint protection techniques and energy conservation for individuals with RA or similar conditions.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Véronique 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.
• 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.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Application of various forms of electrical stimulation, such as Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for muscle strengthening and re-education, or Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist with movement, as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.
• 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.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): The application of cold packs, ice massage, or other cold modalities by your Physiotherapist to reduce swelling, inflammation, muscle spasm, and acute pain, particularly after an injury.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: The use of specific electrical stimulation devices (IFC or TENS) by your Physiotherapist to provide pain relief, reduce muscle spasm, decrease swelling, or promote muscle activation and re-education.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Véronique. 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 CIUSSS de-la-Mauricie-et-du-Centre-du-Québec (Centre Christ-Roi), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Véronique frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Living with needing to improve my breathing patterns or lung capacity doesn't have to be your norm. Véronique applies expert physiotherapy knowledge to work towards greater confidence when walking, standing, or navigating challenging environments, so you can get back to the simple pleasure of managing shopping trips and carrying bags without excessive fatigue or pain.
• Physiotherapy with Véronique can be a transformative turning point for those affected by that 'arthritic' pain in my hands, hips, or knees. The shared goal is achieving improved breathing mechanics and capacity through postural correction, paving the way for you to enjoy resuming your weightlifting routine at the gym safely and a more active, vibrant life.
• With Véronique's help, managing wrist pain and tingling, possibly from carpal tunnel syndrome, especially at night to achieve a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities becomes a clear journey, allowing patients to confidently re-engage with life and activities like maintaining an upright posture while working on your computer for hours.

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

Véronique practices at the CIUSSS de-la-Mauricie-et-du-Centre-du-Québec (Centre Christ-Roi), situated centrally in the Nicolet neighborhood of Nicolet, QC. This public sector facility is conveniently located within easy reach of local community services, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers. It is accessible via multiple public transit routes, making it convenient for patients traveling from various parts of the region. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What are CIUSSS de-la-Mauricie-et-du-Centre-du-Québec (Centre Christ-Roi)'s operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some practitioners offering Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours may vary depending on the practitioner and day. Please contact the clinic at (XXX) XXX-XXXX or visit our website for the most current information and appointment availability.

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

Patients in Quebec can generally see a Physiothérapeute directly through a process known as direct access, without the need for a physician's referral. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your first appointment.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping individuals improve their movement, reduce pain, and recover function. Véronique uses evidence-based techniques such as targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of injuries and conditions affecting muscles, joints, nerves, and the overall well-being. It can assist in pain relief, mobility improvement, post-surgical recovery, injury prevention, and enhancing quality of life.

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

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Some coverage may exist for specific cases such as post-hospitalization or certain low-income individuals through provincial programs. Patients are encouraged to check their private insurance plans for coverage details, as many private plans do offer physiotherapy benefits.

How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?

Initial assessment sessions usually last between 45 to 60 minutes to allow for a comprehensive evaluation. Follow-up treatments generally range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on individual needs and treatment plans.

What is the difference between a Physiothérapeute and a Technologue en physiothérapie in Quebec?

A Physiothérapeute in Quebec has completed a master’s university degree, enabling autonomous assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. A Technologue en physiothérapie holds a college diploma and assists in implementing treatment plans, applying modalities, and supporting patient exercises under the supervision of a Physiothérapeute or physician.

CIUSSS de-la-Mauricie-et-du-Centre-du-Québec (Centre Christ-Roi)
675, Rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Nicolet, QC J3T 1S4

Phone: (819) 293-2071

Véronique Proteau 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.