Zoé Estey-Amyot – Physiotherapist | Québec, QC

Zoé Estey-Amyot is a dedicated Physiothérapeute practicing at the Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ) in Québec, 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). Zoé specializes in addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and balance-related conditions, with a focus on optimizing performance and restoring functional movement for active individuals. Her approach involves thorough assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and personalized strategies to help her patients achieve their movement and athletic goals effectively.

Zoé's expertise extends to providing specialized assessment and treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction. She aims to reduce symptoms, improve stability, and minimize fall risk, especially in active adults and athletes. Her comprehensive approach involves manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and education to empower her patients in managing their conditions independently. Zoé's practice is rooted in ongoing professional development, ensuring that her techniques incorporate the latest advancements in physiotherapy science and sports rehabilitation.

With a strong foundation in Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation, Zoé is dedicated to helping adult patients regain their strength, agility, and confidence. She values collaboration with her patients, working closely to develop tailored treatment plans that align with individual performance goals. Fluent in both French and English, Zoé offers accessible, bilingual care to meet the diverse needs of her community.

Zoé Estey-Amyot provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Hand Wrist

• Trigger Finger/Thumb (Stenosing Tenosynovitis): A condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck or 'catches' in a bent position, then may snap straight (like pulling a trigger). Caused by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath around the flexor tendon.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries & Conditions (e.g., Fractures, Tendon Injuries, Sprains, Arthritis - Conservative/Post-Op): Managing a variety of acute and chronic conditions of the hand and wrist, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent long-term disability.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach for individuals recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury, guiding a safe and gradual return to school, work, and sport activities.

Vestibular Balance

• Vestibular Hypofunction (Unilateral or Bilateral): Individualized exercise programs including gaze stabilization exercises (e.g., VORx1, VORx2), habituation exercises (for motion sensitivity), and balance retraining to improve function when the vestibular system is impaired.
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, including habituation exercises, sensory re-weighting, and balance training, often as part of a multidisciplinary approach (which may include medication or CBT), for managing the symptoms of PPPD/3PD.

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

• Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
• Postural Assessment and Correction: Identifying and addressing habitual postures (e.g., from desk work, phone use) or ergonomic factors that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction.
• Balance Training & Falls Prevention Programs: Targeted exercises and strategies designed by your Physiotherapist to improve your stability, coordination, lower limb strength, and body awareness (proprioception), thereby reducing your risk of falls, particularly beneficial for older adults or individuals with balance impairments.
• Functional Movement Screening (FMS™/SFMA™ if certified): A systematic screening process, such as FMS™ or SFMA™ (if your Physiotherapist is certified), to understand how you move and guide preventative or corrective exercise programs.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Zoé. 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 Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Zoé frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• For those whose difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts or writing due to hand pain has made being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children seem like a distant memory, Zoé's physiotherapy care offers a clear path toward feeling less fatigued during physical activities and throughout the day. Effective, evidence-based treatments can be instrumental in helping you get back to being able to kneel or squat down to play with pets or children with greater comfort and renewed confidence.
• Many individuals seek help from Zoé, their physiotherapist, when shoulder pain that makes simple things like lifting my arm or reaching overhead difficult starts impacting daily life. Through a personalized physiotherapy plan, they often achieve feeling more like their 'old self' before their injury or condition began, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like resuming your weightlifting routine at the gym safely.
• If recovering from surgery to my hand or wrist is preventing you from fully enjoying getting on and off the floor with ease, Zoé offers expert guidance and tailored treatment. Physiotherapy focuses on attaining waking up feeling more refreshed with considerably less pain and stiffness, often utilizing targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help you regain your previous level of function.

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

Zoé practices at the Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), situated in a central Québec neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. The clinic is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring ease of travel for all patients. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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

For your first visit, please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) card, if applicable for any publicly funded programs or simply for identification), any relevant medical information such as a doctor's referral note (if you have one), reports from recent imaging (like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound scans), and a list of your current medications. Also, if you plan to use private health insurance, bring your insurance card or policy details. Finally, wear or bring comfortable clothing suitable for assessment and movement.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It’s advisable to check your insurance policy beforehand to confirm coverage. While a referral is not always necessary for treatment, consulting your healthcare provider is recommended if you have complex conditions or specific concerns.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiothérapeute will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

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

In Quebec, the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. However, care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for coverage options.

Does Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ) offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, the IUCPQ offers direct billing for most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, and others. Patients are encouraged to bring their insurance card and policy details to facilitate the process. If direct billing is not available for certain plans, receipts can be provided for reimbursement through your insurer.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement is best for your physiotherapy appointment – think about what you might wear to a gym or for light exercise. If you're being treated for a lower-body issue (like hip or knee pain), shorts are very helpful. For upper-body issues (like shoulder or neck pain), a tank top or loose t-shirt is suitable so the Physiothérapeute can properly examine and treat the area.

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 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 in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ)
2725, Chemin Sainte-Foy
Québec, QC G1V 4G5

Phone: (418) 656-8711

Zoé Estey-Amyot 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.