Manual Therapy
Clinical Physiotherapy - In Person Sessions
WHAT IS MANUAL THERAPY?
Manual therapy is one of the safest and most non-invasive ways to effectively treat pain. Manual therapy is a specialized physiotherapy technique that can help you avoid surgery or manage post-surgery conditions. It is also beneficial for improving balance, mobility, and overall physical health. Whether you are recovering from a recent injury or have a chronic condition that causes pain, our team of expert physiotherapists can get you on the road to recovery.
IS MANUAL THERAPY RIGHT FOR YOU?
Manual therapy is great for patients who are recovering from injury or seeking relief from chronic pain, such as headaches, neck pain, shoulder pain, and back pain. It can also be useful as a preparation technique before surgery. Manual therapy is intended to treat soft tissue, joint, and inflammation pain, as well as increase range of motion and overall function.
Benefits of manual therapy include:
• Pain management
• Increased range of motion
• Reduced swelling and inflammation
• Improved muscle function
• Improved mobility
• Stabilize joints
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VanCity Physio offers direct billing.
Practitioners
Tim Fung
Physiotherapist
Tim completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology from Simon Fraser University and a Master of Physiotherapy Degree from the University of Sydney.
Tim has extensive experience working with a wide range of individuals including youth, working professionals, recreational/semi-professional athletes and weekend warriors.
Tim has additional training and specialization in the following skills: sports injury management, running injuries/running and treadmill assessments, office/workplace injury management, repetitive overuse injuries, injury prevention technique, functional reconditioning, and personalized, tailored exercise prescription.
Ella Hebron
Physiotherapist
Ella has been practicing physiotherapy for over 10 years in the United Kingdom in various hospitals around London after graduating from University of Brighton in 2011.
Ella has an interim license as a Physiotherapist with the College of Physiotherapists of British Columbia and is a member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, due to be fully licensed by 2022. She is a member of the Health and Care Professions Council and Chartered Society of Physiotherapy in the United Kingdom. She has spent the last 6 years at the Whittington Hospital London as a Senior Physiotherapist, and has worked with physiotherapists in the leading spinal cord injury rehab centre in London.
She has clinical experience with clients of all ages, in intensive care rehabilitation, oncology, acute stroke and spinal cord injury rehabilitation and cardiorespiratory physiotherapy. Ella also has extensive experience in orthopaedic rehabilitation, including post trauma rehab, hip and knee replacement, shoulder surgery and ACL rehabilitation.
Jennifer Chew
Physiotherapist
Jennifer Chew is a Registered Physiotherapist who graduated from UBC with a Masters of Physical Therapy. Along with her physiotherapy degree, Jennifer also has a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from McGill as well as a Masters of Exercise Science and Health Promotion from the California University of Pennsylvania.
In addition to her clinical experience as a physiotherapist, Jennifer has more than a decades-worth of personal training experience and it was personal training that initially got her started into developing a passion for pursuing further education in rehabilitation.
Jennifer uses evidence-based practice and uses her expertise in exercise, strength and conditioning in combination with manual therapy and other treatment modalities to empower her clients to return to their healthy and injury-free life.
Jennifer is also fluent in Cantonese and is proficient in Mandarin.
Gemma Greig
Meet Gemma, the newest addition to our Vancity physiotherapy team all the way from Scotland!
Graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy from Glasgow Caledonian University in 2018, Gemma brings a wealth of experience to our clinic. Her background includes working in various settings, such as NHS Scotland in outpatient musculoskeletal/orthopedics, sports clinics, and private physiotherapy practices. Since arriving in Vancouver three years ago, Gemma has expanded her expertise by working in acute care within the Fraser Health Authority and in private practice.
Gemma’s lifelong dream of living in Canada has become a reality, and she has found her passion in helping people in the beautiful city of Vancouver. Known for her ability to effortlessly create a safe and comfortable environment, Gemma’s clients consistently praise her dedication and professionalism.
Continual growth and development are essential to Gemma, both personally and professionally. She recently completed training in “Dive into the Coach Approach” and is on her way to becoming a certified coach within the field of physiotherapy. This additional expertise allows her to combine her interest in counselling with her role as a healthcare professional. Gemma is also certified in advanced vestibular rehabilitation and treatment, enabling her to effectively address conditions such as vertigo, cervicogenic dizziness, and concussion. She is enthusiastic about mentoring future physiotherapy students and sharing her knowledge.
Gemma’s experience on the Covid and general medical wards at Surrey Memorial Hospital has sparked her interest in respiratory physiotherapy services. She is excited to offer her expertise in this area and assist clients in improving their respiratory function. In addition to her specialization in respiratory physiotherapy, Gemma has a strong background in advanced vestibular rehabilitation and treatment.
Outside of work, Gemma loves exploring the breathtaking landscapes of British Columbia. Whether it’s indulging in an ice cream treat at Granville Island or cycling along the seawall, she embraces an active and creative lifestyle. Gemma is known for her forward-thinking mindset and attentive listening skills. And if you’re up for a game of golf, she also possesses a mean swing!
Whether you’re looking to improve your mobility, enhance your respiratory health, or elevate your golf game, Gemma is here to guide you on your journey. She is passionate about helping you achieve your goals and looks forward to assisting you with her expertise and enthusiasm.
Paige Wakefield
Greg Furlong
Greg hails from Newfoundland and Labrador, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with Honours from Memorial University in 2017. During his time at Memorial University, he showcased his athletic prowess as a key player for the Sea-Hawks’ varsity soccer team. Following this, Greg pursued his passion for healthcare and completed his Master of Science in Physiotherapy at Dalhousie University in 2019.
Greg’s professional journey led him to Prince Edward Island, where he gained valuable experience working at a multidisciplinary clinic and providing care to collegiate soccer, volleyball, and basketball teams. He also had the opportunity to be part of several prestigious national sports events, such as the Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games, where he contributed his expertise.
In 2023, Greg achieved a significant milestone by obtaining his Certificate in Sports Physiotherapy from Sports Physiotherapy Canada, further enhancing his specialization in sports-related injuries. His commitment to ongoing education is evident through his extensive training in concussion management, ACL injury management, and being a Sport First Responder. Currently, Greg is dedicated to advancing his knowledge and skills through a fellowship in Sports Physiotherapy.
Outside of his professional life, Greg maintains his active lifestyle through his love for soccer and CrossFit, ensuring he remains in top physical condition. He also finds joy in coaching soccer and brings his extensive experience to the field, holding a C-License from Canada Soccer and having coached both collegiate and provincial teams.
Ranko Vukovic
Physiotherapist | GUNN IMS Practitioner
Ranko is a Registered Physiotherapist (RPT) licensed with the College of Physiotherapists of British Columbia and a member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.
He graduated from UBC in 2015 with a Masters of Physical Therapy. A passion for sport saw Ranko work as a BCRPA Certified Personal Trainer and Kinesiologist, creating tailored training programs for a diverse group of clients, educating and motivating them to reach their personal fitness goals.
Ranko has post-graduate training in treating jaw pain, otherwise known as TMJ and Orofacial pain. He’s also a Certified CGIMS Practitioner, and has completed his training at UBC. In addition, Ranko finished his Functional Dry Needling (FDN) certification in University of Navada Las Vegas. Ranko's training also includes ShockWave Therapy, Mobilization with Movement and Kinetic Link Training. He was featured in the Top 100 Canadians Magazine for 2020.
Alexis Karsli
Alexis grew up in Toronto, swimming and camping in every season. She received both her Master of Physiotherapy and Bachelor of Science at UBC in Vancouver. Alexis has worked with clients of all ages, and hopes to empower clients to participate in their recovery through active treatment techniques (get ready for exercise) and open communication between clients and physio throughout their journey. She believes in the importance of helping her clients understand how their bodies move and function when discussing treatment plans to better aid recovery.
Alexis has completed her Level 1 AIM orthopedics certification and has had clinical placements with emphasis on amputee rehab, kids physio, senior health, hip/knee replacements, and general public and private physio.
She looks forward to working with you to meet your rehab goals, whether they are big or small!
Amy Edwards
Amy was born and raised in the Okanagan, where she completed her undergraduate degree in Human Kinetics and Psychology from the University of British Columbia Okanagan. During her time at UBCO, she completed a Personal Training Certification with the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology. After graduation, she moved to Vancouver and graduated with a Master of Physical Therapy from UBC in 2020.
Amy has several years of acute care experience in various areas including orthopedics, surgical, cardiac, respiratory, and neurological rehabilitation. She currently treats a wide range of chronic pain conditions working within the Complex Pain Clinic at St. Paul’s Hospital. Having experience working with many diverse populations, Amy always strives to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment to support clients in their unique healing journeys. Through holistic and evidence-informed techniques, Amy empowers clients to achieve their goals and return to activities they love.
With a passion for continuing education, Amy has completed several courses for the treatment of chronic pain conditions, gentle movement exercises, and mindfulness techniques. She has also completed the Level 1 Orthopedic Advanced Integrated Musculoskeletal Certification.
In her spare time, you can find Amy running along the seawall, throwing rocks at the curling club, going backpacking, trying not to 3-putt on the golf course, or enjoying a cold plunge.
Isabel Aganon
Isabel Aganon graduated with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto. Boasting over a decade of experience as a dedicated physiotherapist, she is committed to improving her patient’s functional outcomes and enhancing their overall well-being.
With a steadfast commitment to providing exceptional care, she has honed her expertise through specialized training in Vestibular Rehabilitation, Chronic Pain Management, Pilates, Pelvic Health, Acupuncture, and Arthritis Care. She also possess expertise with returning injured workers back to their optimal level through work conditioning programs.
Notably, Isabel played an essential role in shaping the Advanced Practice Physiotherapy role within the Hip and Knee Surgical Assessment Program at Vancouver Coastal Health. Additionally, she collaborated closely with orthopaedic surgeons at the University Health Network in Toronto, contributing her expertise to triages in upper and lower extremity programs and spine clinics. Her experience in treating chronic pain has given her valuable insights into the interplay of psychosocial and environmental influences on patient recovery.
Beyond her professional endeavours, Isabel is deeply engaged in personal growth and wellness pursuits. She has delved into the study of mindfulness meditation and finds rejuvenation through her passion for hiking. During her journeys to India, she diligently honed her skills in Ashtanga yoga and various breathing techniques, integrating them into her practice when it is suitable.
Sarah Jones
In 2023, Sarah relocated to Vancouver from Cape Town, South Africa, a decision that had been in the works for 13 years and was finally realized. Having obtained her BSc in physiotherapy from the University of Cape Town in 1998, Sarah dedicated herself to various settings within the field, including rural public hospitals, private hospitals, and eventually establishing her own private clinic. By 2011, she sensed the need to invigorate her professional journey, leading her to pursue a Masters in manipulative therapy, which she successfully completed in 2013. This advanced degree reignited her fervor for physiotherapy, offering a comprehensive exploration into joint mechanics, pain science, clinical reasoning, and effective communication.
Throughout her career, Sarah has not only maintained her private practice but also ventured into academia, educating both undergraduate and postgraduate students across a spectrum of physiotherapy subjects, ranging from cervical spine issues to interpersonal communication skills. Her areas of expertise encompass headaches, neck pain, and pelvic floor physiotherapy, areas she holds a deep interest in.
Sarah's involvement in a diverse array of sports, including volleyball, basketball, running, biking, and boxing, has cultivated a keen understanding of sports-related injuries and their rehabilitation processes. Committed to staying abreast of advancements in her field, she actively pursues continuing education opportunities through national and international courses, literature, and conferences, recognizing the importance of evidence-based practices in delivering optimal patient care.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Sarah treasures spending quality time with her husband and young family, exploring the natural beauty of Vancouver and its surroundings through hiking, and indulging her passion for music by playing the saxophone.
