Manual Therapy

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

HOW IT WORKS

Manual therapy is a physiotherapy technique that uses skilled hand movements to relieve pain and stiffness. By manipulating joints and applying pressure to muscles, manual therapy stimulates your nervous system and uses physical pressure to release tight muscles and joints. Types of manual therapy may include joint mobilization, manipulative therapy, Myofascial release, trigger point release, and more. Your individual treatment plan will be determined by your physiotherapist.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Our team uses a clinical approach based on skilled “hands-on” therapy to decrease pain and improve the mobility of joints, soft tissues and nerves. In your session, your physiotherapist will work on a specific muscle or joint, depending on your initial assessment. Treatments can include applying pressure to the area, stimulating the joint, or soft tissue massage. Our physiotherapists combine manual therapy with exercise prescription and rehabilitation which will lead to a faster recovery of your function.

HOW TO PREPARE

Whenever starting a new physiotherapy program, bring a list of any medications to your first appointment, along with any relevant X-rays and MRIs. If you’re experiencing pain symptoms beforehand, make a note of them and be sure to tell your therapist ahead of time. If you are involved in an accident claim with ICBC, be sure to get treatment approval before your sessions begin.

POST-SESSION

Come dressed in appropriate attire so your physiotherapist may have easy access to the area of concern. Whenever starting a new physiotherapy program, bring a list of any medications to your first appointment, along with any relevant X-rays and MRIs. If you’re experiencing pain symptoms beforehand, make a note of them and be sure to tell your therapist ahead of time. If you are involved in an accident claim with ICBC, be sure to get treatment approval before your sessions begin.

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FEES

To book, please select Clinical Physiotherapy from our online booking platform. To maximize your session’s value, and take advantage of our diverse treatment options, fees are inclusive of all treatments used during your session. Your physiotherapist will work with you to help assess which treatments will be most beneficial during your visit.

VanCity Physio offers direct billing.

I saw Ranko for my first physio visit. I am a dentist and experience tightness in my neck and shoulders a lot. Ranko did a thorough assessment and recommended the proper treatment best suited for my needs.

My body felt so relaxed and relieved after my visit with Ranko. He gave me suggestions on how I can best prevent further injuries due to my work. Since them I have noticed huge improvements in my range of motion and less discomfort in my head and shoulders.

— Dr. Neda R.
1 / 4

Ranko has taught me many things about my recovery and has encouraged me every step of the way. His smile and attitude helps to keep me involved and optimistic. I can ask for honesty with him and get it … qualities that reflect more than one healing process.

— Wendy M.
2 / 4

I recently suffered an injury from playing sports. I had a lot of trouble walking without pain but working with Vancity Physio helped me quickly return to what I love doing most. Injuries don't just affect a person physically, but can take an emotional toll. Having a physiotherapist who is knowledgeable in their practice, patient with explaining my condition and being personable to work made all the difference in my full recovery.

— Fiona Chiu
3 / 4

Vancity Physio has played a pivotal role in my journey to healing my back after a car accident in 2017. Their positive attitude and ability to build instant rapport with each of his clients constantly amazes me.

Their dedication to solving the mystery behind my injury and constant support in advocating for my health has been a necessary component to the success I've had treating this injury.

I trust Vancity Physio fully with this injury and I will undoubtedly be visiting any time I need to see a physiotherapist in the future. Do yourself a favour and book in now!

— Gabrielle D.
4 / 4

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.

Our team. Vancity Physiotherapy located in Vancouver, British Columbia. Your trusted Physiotherapy experts.

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.


Our team. Vancity Physiotherapy located in Vancouver, British Columbia. Your trusted Physiotherapy experts.

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.

Our team. Vancity Physiotherapy located in Vancouver, British Columbia. Your trusted Physiotherapy experts.

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!

Alexis Karsli

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.

Amy Edwards at Vancity Physiotherapy. Physiotherapists Vancouver

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.


Amy Edwards at Vancity Physiotherapy. Physiotherapists Vancouver

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.


Our team. Vancity Physiotherapy located in Vancouver, British Columbia. Your trusted Physiotherapy experts.

Audrey Cullis

Audrey is a dedicated and experienced Physiotherapist passionate about helping individuals optimize their physical health and performance. A former competitive ice hockey player, she brings a unique perspective to her practice, drawing on her athletic background to understand the demands of physical activity.


After earning a Bachelor of Medical Sciences with Honours Specialization in Physiology from the University of Western Ontario, Audrey moved to British Columbia to pursue her Master’s in Physical Therapy at UBC, graduating in 2023. She currently works at VanCity Physio and the Acute Rehab Unit at Sunny Hill Health Centre, where she provides intensive rehabilitation services to children with various neurological and physical disabilities.


Outside of work, Audrey enjoys an active lifestyle, including snowboarding, hiking, camping, and running. She has a particular interest in treating sports injuries, especially those related to hockey and running. She is available to conduct running assessments to help individuals improve their performance and prevent injuries.
Audrey is committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based care. She is excited to work with you to achieve your health and wellness goals.

Audrey Cullis