arbutus Salt Spring Island

Physiotherapy


Registered Physiotherapy on Salt Spring Island

Physiotherapy is an evidence-based, patient-centred practice focused on restoring optimal movement, reducing discomfort, and improving function across all stages of life. Physiotherapists are highly trained experts in the neuromuscular and musculoskeletal systems, with deep knowledge of how the body moves and heals.

Physiotherapy supports individuals dealing with a wide spectrum of acute and chronic conditions of the musculoskeletal, neurological, and vestibular systems  (see below for examples). Our physiotherapists use a variety of hands-on and movement-based techniques to improve joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, restore strength and coordination, retrain functional movement patterns, and improve balance and vertigo. They also focus on improving posture, movement mechanics, and patient education to prevent future issues and enhance long term performance.

Physiotherapists provide integrative care, taking into account lifestyle, past injuries, and the cumulative effects of stress (both physical and emotional) that may affect healing and well-being. Our physiotherapy approach is a collaborative process that helps you reconnect with your body and move toward your fullest potential. Treatment plans are personalized, combining practitioner clinical experience with evidence-based treatment and a deep understanding of your personal goals and needs.

Physiotherapy helps with

Pain:

back, neck, shoulder, and hip pain

Sciatica & disk herniations

Head:

Headaches, migraines, jaw pain, (TMJ), concussions

Pre/post-surgery support:

Prehabilitation to prepare the body for surgery

Recovery and restoring function after surgery

Injuries:

Sprains/strains, fractures, dislocations, ligament, tendon, and muscle tears

Rehabilitation from sports injuries, car accidents, whiplash

chronic injuries:

Long-term pain or dysfunction from previous injuries

Tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome

Bursitis, tendinitis, arthritis

Posture

Poor alignment, muscular imbalances

Ergonomic strain (e.g., from desk work or devices)

Numbness & tingling

Optimizing athletic performance:

Strength, flexibility, coordination, recovery

Injury prevention & movement efficiency

Tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome

Stress, anxiety, hypertensioN & difficulty sleeping

Balance & vestibular conditions:

Vertigo, dizziness, inner ear disorders

BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)

Motion sensitivity, unsteadiness, fall prevention

Neurological Rehabilitation: 

Support for stroke recovery, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis.

Stress, anxiety, hypertension &  difficulty sleeping

Mobility & movement:

Poor joint mobility, stiffness

Muscle tension, imbalanced or inefficient movement patterns

Pregnancy-related back pain

Madron integrative Health, Chiropractic
Salt-Spring-Island
Salt Spring chiropractic care, Chiropractors, Dr. Kate Schertzer, Dr. Holly Hochstsdt

Our Tools

  • Tailored exercise programs designed to restore function, prevent recurrence, enhance recovery, and improve overall physical performance. May include stretching, strength training, balance, and proprioceptive work.

  • Evaluation of fundamental movement patterns (e.g., squatting, lunging, bending) to identify deficits in mobility, stability, or coordination that may contribute to injury or dysfunction.

  • Advanced, sport-specific assessment and treatment targeting recovery from athletic injuries. Focuses on performance enhancement, injury prevention, and return-to-play protocols.

  • An advanced form of flexibility training that combines passive stretching and isometric contractions to improve range of motion and muscular function. PNF stretching helps retrain the nervous system to allow greater mobility while enhancing muscle strength and coordination. Commonly used in both rehabilitation and athletic performance settings.

  • Manual techniques aimed at breaking down scar tissue and adhesions in soft tissue structures. Enhances circulation, reduces pain, and improves mobility.

  • Techniques to retrain the neuromuscular system and restore coordinated movement patterns following injury, surgery, or neurological conditions. Includes balance training, electrical muscle stimulation (EMS), and proprioceptive exercises.

  • A technique that uses suction cups to lift and separate tissues, promoting increased blood flow, reducing muscle tension, and aiding in the removal of metabolic waste. Cupping can assist in releasing fascial restrictions, decreasing pain, and accelerating recovery from injury. It is often integrated with other manual therapies for enhanced therapeutic effect.

  • Application of elastic or rigid tape to support muscles and joints, reduce pain, and enhance proprioception during activity or rehabilitation.

  • Manual pressure is applied to hyperirritable spots within muscle tissue (trigger points) to relieve tension, improve circulation, and reduce referred pain.

  • A specialized hands-on method to break up adhesions and scar tissue in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia. ART restores normal movement and function, often used for overuse injuries.

  • A gentle, sustained pressure technique to stretch and release restrictions in the fascia, improving flexibility, circulation, and mobility. Can be therapist-guided or taught for self-care.

  • Also known as an “adjustment” or “manipulation,” this hands-on technique applies a specific force through a joint to restore motion and improve physical function. Often combined with soft tissue therapies for optimal results.

  • Involves gentle, controlled movements of joints to reduce pain, restore range of motion, and improve joint function. Especially beneficial post-injury or surgery.

  • Use of electrical stimulation to reduce pain, improve circulation, and promote healing in injured tissues. Often used as an adjunct to manual therapies.

  • Exercises that improve the body’s awareness of joint position and movement. Especially useful post-injury or for fall prevention in older adults.

  • Correction of poor postural habits through awareness training, strengthening, and mobility work to reduce strain on the spine and associated structures.

  • Specialized therapy for individuals with dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders. Includes gaze stabilization, balance exercises, and habituation training.

  • Rehabilitation of walking patterns using corrective strategies, strength training, and mobility work, particularly after injury, surgery, or neurological impairment.

Our Physiotherapist

  • Rob Cosma

    REGISTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST