South Island Physiotherapy Center

Physiotherapy Center Victoria BC

Evidence-Based Care and Durable Recovery for Greater Victoria

CPA Board Member

5-Star Google Rating

275+ Patient Reviews

ICBC & WorkSafeBC Direct Billing

College of Physical Therapists of BC Registered

Greater Victoria's Integrated Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Center

South Island Physio is a physiotherapy center in Victoria BC, founded by three Registered Physical Therapists. Located at 888 Short Street in Saanich and serving patients across Oak Bay, Esquimalt, Langford, Colwood, Cordova Bay and Greater Victoria, we bring physiotherapy, registered massage therapy, kinesiology, chiropractic care, and pelvic health under one roof.

learn about us

Still hurting after weeks of treatment? You’re not alone.

Most people who walk through our door have already tried something. They’ve been to another clinic, tried rest, pushed through the pain, or received treatment that helped temporarily but didn’t last. When the relief wears off and the same problem returns, it’s not a failure of effort. It’s often a sign that the root cause was never properly addressed.
 
At South Island Physiotherapy Center, we start by understanding why the problem exists before determining how to resolve it. Passive care manages symptoms. Progressive exercise builds the capacity to stay well. Every treatment plan we build is designed to produce durable results, not to manage your condition indefinitely.
Under One Roof in Victoria

Every Discipline You Need

Physiotherapy

From sports injuries and surgical recovery to balance retraining and TMJ dysfunction, our registered physical therapists build individualized rehabilitation plans grounded in current clinical evidence and designed around your specific goals.

Physiotherapy

Registered Massage Therapy (RMT)

Our Registered Massage Therapists provide therapeutic massage for muscle tension, injury recovery, and stress-related conditions, coordinating directly with the physiotherapy team for integrated care.

Registered Massage Therapy

Kinesiology and Active Rehabilitation

Our kinesiologists guide progressive exercise programs, athletic performance testing, and active rehabilitation for patients transitioning from clinical care back to full activity.

Kinesiology & Active Rehabilitation

Chiropractic Care

Our chiropractor provides evidence-based care for spinal health, joint mobility, and musculoskeletal pain, integrated within our multi-disciplinary model so your care is coordinated across disciplines.

Chiropractic Care

Why Victoria Patients Choose South Island Physiotherapy

Owner-led clinical care

All three of our co-founders are Registered Physical Therapists who remain active clinicians. When you come to us, you are seen by a team built at the ownership level around clinical excellence and continued education.

Jason Nenzel holds a Master of Science in Physical Therapy and serves as a Director on the Canadian Physiotherapy Association Board, contributing to the profession’s national direction. Alec Myring is a certified Gunn IMS practitioner with a Master of Physical Therapy from UBC. Colin Beattie brings extensive experience helping patients with complex, persistent injuries that have not responded to other approaches.

Solutions-focused, not symptom-focused

Our goal is durable results, not ongoing symptom management. We combine evidence-based manual therapy with progressive exercise programs designed to build physical capacity and reduce the likelihood of recurrence. We educate every patient on what is happening and why, because recovery that lasts is recovery that is understood.

Integrated, coordinated disciplines

Our physiotherapists, RMTs, kinesiologists, chiropractor, and pelvic health physiotherapist operate as a connected team. When your recovery benefits from more than one discipline, we coordinate that internally rather than sending you to separate clinics across the city.

ICBC and WorkSafeBC direct billing

We accept ICBC claims for motor vehicle accident injuries and WorkSafeBC claims for workplace injuries. Our administrative team, with over a decade of experience in third-party billing, handles the claims process directly so you can focus on recovery rather than paperwork.

Healthspan philosophy

Our approach extends beyond the presenting injury. We are focused on your long-term physical health and your ability to do the things that matter: returning to trail running in the Highlands, keeping up with grandchildren in Cordova Bay, or getting back to work in Langford without pain. We treat the problem in front of us and plan for the person beyond it.

Case Study: Massage Therapy

Chronic Neck and Shoulder Tension

Patient: Laura K., 38

Concern

Laura experienced chronic neck and shoulder tightness from prolonged desk work and stress.

assessment

The massage therapist identified trigger points in the upper trapezius and levator scapula muscles contributing to tension headaches and stiffness.

treatment approach

Treatment involved deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and education regarding safe and effective exercises that reduce the likelihood of future pain and discomfort.

outcome

After several treatments Laura reported fewer headaches and significantly reduced muscle tension.

Case Study: Chiropractic

Neck Pain and Reduced Mobility

Patient: Daniel M., 47

Concern

Daniel presented with neck stiffness and headaches after long hours working at a computer.

assessment

Evaluation revealed restricted cervical spine mobility, joint irritation, and reduced function.

treatment approach

Chiropractic care included spinal adjustments specific to the areas of stiffness and discomfort, mobility exercises, and ergonomic advice.

outcome

Daniel experienced improved neck movement and decreased headaches after four weeks and was able to engage in meaningful work with less pain, discomfort, and more focus.

Case Study: Kinesiology

Strength Recovery After Knee Injury

Patient: Kevin P., 29

Concern

Kevin had persistent knee weakness after recovering from a ligament sprain and wanted to return to recreational basketball.

assessment

Testing revealed strength deficits in the quadriceps and gluteal muscles.

treatment approach

A progressive exercise program focused on lower body strength, balance training, and return-to-sport conditioning.

outcome

Kevin confidently returned to full basketball participation within eight weeks.

Case Study: Physiotherapy

Treating Persistent Low Back Pain

Patient: Michael R, 44

Concern

Michael developed persistent low back pain after lifting heavy boxes during a home renovation. The pain worsened with prolonged sitting and bending, making it difficult to work and exercise.

assessment

A physiotherapy assessment identified limited lumbar mobility, reduced core endurance, and increased strain through the lower back during lifting movements.

treatment approach

Treatment included manual therapy and intramuscular stimulation to improve spinal mobility, progressive strengthening of the core, hip muscles, and muscles of the lower back, as well as education on safe lifting mechanics.

outcome

Within six weeks Michael returned to full work duties and recreational golf without back pain.

Case Study: Pelvic Health

Postpartum Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Patient: Andrea M., 34

Concern

Andrea experienced urinary leakage during high impact activities after childbirth.

assessment

Assessment revealed pelvic floor weakness and poor coordination during higher impact activities such as running and lifting weights.

treatment approach

Pelvic floor retraining exercises and core stabilization were implemented.

outcome

Andrea comfortably and confidently returned to running and lifting weights symptom-free after eight weeks.

Case Study: Athletic Testing

Identifying Weaknesses to Improve Athletic Performance

Patient: Jordan F., 24

Concern

Jordan, a recreational athlete, felt like his performance had plateaued despite consistent training. He wanted to better understand where he could improve strength, power, and overall athletic ability.

assessment

A comprehensive athletic testing session was completed, evaluating strength, power, balance, and movement quality. The assessment identified asymmetries between limbs, reduced lower body power, and specific weaknesses in core and hip stability.

treatment approach

Based on the findings, a targeted strength and conditioning program was developed to address identified deficits, improve movement efficiency, and enhance overall athletic performance.

outcome

Jordan developed greater strength, improved movement quality, and saw measurable improvements in performance. He returned to training with increased confidence, a clear plan, and the ability to perform at a higher level.

Case Study: Exercise Rehab

Moving Beyond Chronic Pain to Restore Function

Patient: Lisa M., 49

Concern

Lisa had been dealing with persistent low back and hip pain for several years. She found herself avoiding activity due to fear of flare-ups and felt stuck in a cycle of discomfort that was limiting her daily life and ability to stay active.

assessment

Assessment identified reduced strength through the core and hips, decreased movement tolerance, and protective movement patterns contributing to ongoing pain and reduced function.

treatment approach

A progressive exercise rehabilitation program was developed to gradually build strength, improve movement confidence, and increase tolerance to activity. Emphasis was placed on safe, controlled progression and restoring normal movement patterns.

outcome

Lisa was able to move beyond chronic pain, improve her overall function, and return to the activities she enjoys with greater confidence, consistency, and significantly reduced discomfort.

Case Study: Strength Conditioning

Low Back Pain Limiting Daily Function

Patient: Brian C., 46

Concern

Brian experienced ongoing low back pain that worsened with prolonged sitting and physical activity. This began to impact his ability to work comfortably and stay active with his family.

assessment

The massage therapist identified increased muscle tension and restriction through the lower back, glutes, and surrounding musculature contributing to limited mobility and discomfort.

treatment approach

Treatment included targeted deep tissue massage and myofascial release to reduce tension, improve tissue mobility, and support more efficient movement. Education was also provided on simple strategies to maintain progress between sessions.

outcome

Brian experienced meaningful pain relief, improved mobility, and was able to return to daily activities with greater comfort and improved function.

Case Study: ART

Shoulder Pain Limiting Overhead Activity

Patient: Chris W., 36

Concern

Chris developed shoulder pain with overhead movements during workouts and recreational sports, limiting his ability to train and stay active.

assessment

Assessment identified soft tissue restrictions through the rotator cuff and surrounding musculature, contributing to reduced range of motion and pain with overhead activity.

treatment approach

Active Release Technique was used to target affected tissues, combined with guided movement to restore normal tissue function and reduce strain during overhead movements.

outcome

Chris experienced reduced pain, improved shoulder range of motion, and returned to full participation in workouts and sports without limitation.

Case Study: Incontinence Treatment

Improving Bladder Control and Reducing Leakage

Patient: Amanda T., 41

Concern

Amanda experienced urinary leakage during exercise, coughing, and sudden urges, which affected her confidence going out and staying active. She began avoiding workouts and social situations due to fear of accidents.

assessment

Assessment revealed reduced pelvic floor strength, impaired coordination, and decreased urge control contributing to leakage during both activity and daily life.

treatment approach

Treatment focused on pelvic floor strengthening, improving coordination and timing of muscle activation, and strategies to better manage urgency. A progressive return-to-exercise plan was also implemented.

outcome

Amanda reported less leakage, better bladder control, and no more accidents during daily activities. She was able to exercise without leaking, experienced improved pelvic floor strength and urge control, and regained confidence going out and staying active.

Case Study: Massage Therapy

Chronic Neck and Shoulder Tension

Patient: Laura K., 38

Concern

Laura experienced chronic neck and shoulder tightness from prolonged desk work and stress.

assessment

The massage therapist identified trigger points in the upper trapezius and levator scapula muscles contributing to tension headaches and stiffness.

treatment approach

Treatment involved deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and education regarding safe and effective exercises that reduce the likelihood of future pain and discomfort.

outcome

After several treatments Laura reported fewer headaches and significantly reduced muscle tension.

Case Study: Chiropractic

Neck Pain and Reduced Mobility

Patient: Daniel M., 47

Concern

Daniel presented with neck stiffness and headaches after long hours working at a computer.

assessment

Evaluation revealed restricted cervical spine mobility, joint irritation, and reduced function.

treatment approach

Chiropractic care included spinal adjustments specific to the areas of stiffness and discomfort, mobility exercises, and ergonomic advice.

outcome

Daniel experienced improved neck movement and decreased headaches after four weeks and was able to engage in meaningful work with less pain, discomfort, and more focus.

Case Study: Kinesiology

Strength Recovery After Knee Injury

Patient: Kevin P., 29

Concern

Kevin had persistent knee weakness after recovering from a ligament sprain and wanted to return to recreational basketball.

assessment

Testing revealed strength deficits in the quadriceps and gluteal muscles.

treatment approach

A progressive exercise program focused on lower body strength, balance training, and return-to-sport conditioning.

outcome

Kevin confidently returned to full basketball participation within eight weeks.

Case Study: Physiotherapy

Treating Persistent Low Back Pain

Patient: Michael R, 44

Concern

Michael developed persistent low back pain after lifting heavy boxes during a home renovation. The pain worsened with prolonged sitting and bending, making it difficult to work and exercise.

assessment

A physiotherapy assessment identified limited lumbar mobility, reduced core endurance, and increased strain through the lower back during lifting movements.

treatment approach

Treatment included manual therapy and intramuscular stimulation to improve spinal mobility, progressive strengthening of the core, hip muscles, and muscles of the lower back, as well as education on safe lifting mechanics.

outcome

Within six weeks Michael returned to full work duties and recreational golf without back pain.

Case Study: Pelvic Health

Postpartum Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Patient: Andrea M., 34

Concern

Andrea experienced urinary leakage during high impact activities after childbirth.

assessment

Assessment revealed pelvic floor weakness and poor coordination during higher impact activities such as running and lifting weights.

treatment approach

Pelvic floor retraining exercises and core stabilization were implemented.

outcome

Andrea comfortably and confidently returned to running and lifting weights symptom-free after eight weeks.

Case Study: Athletic Testing

Identifying Weaknesses to Improve Athletic Performance

Patient: Jordan F., 24

Concern

Jordan, a recreational athlete, felt like his performance had plateaued despite consistent training. He wanted to better understand where he could improve strength, power, and overall athletic ability.

assessment

A comprehensive athletic testing session was completed, evaluating strength, power, balance, and movement quality. The assessment identified asymmetries between limbs, reduced lower body power, and specific weaknesses in core and hip stability.

treatment approach

Based on the findings, a targeted strength and conditioning program was developed to address identified deficits, improve movement efficiency, and enhance overall athletic performance.

outcome

Jordan developed greater strength, improved movement quality, and saw measurable improvements in performance. He returned to training with increased confidence, a clear plan, and the ability to perform at a higher level.

Case Study: Exercise Rehab

Moving Beyond Chronic Pain to Restore Function

Patient: Lisa M., 49

Concern

Lisa had been dealing with persistent low back and hip pain for several years. She found herself avoiding activity due to fear of flare-ups and felt stuck in a cycle of discomfort that was limiting her daily life and ability to stay active.

assessment

Assessment identified reduced strength through the core and hips, decreased movement tolerance, and protective movement patterns contributing to ongoing pain and reduced function.

treatment approach

A progressive exercise rehabilitation program was developed to gradually build strength, improve movement confidence, and increase tolerance to activity. Emphasis was placed on safe, controlled progression and restoring normal movement patterns.

outcome

Lisa was able to move beyond chronic pain, improve her overall function, and return to the activities she enjoys with greater confidence, consistency, and significantly reduced discomfort.

Case Study: Strength Conditioning

Low Back Pain Limiting Daily Function

Patient: Brian C., 46

Concern

Brian experienced ongoing low back pain that worsened with prolonged sitting and physical activity. This began to impact his ability to work comfortably and stay active with his family.

assessment

The massage therapist identified increased muscle tension and restriction through the lower back, glutes, and surrounding musculature contributing to limited mobility and discomfort.

treatment approach

Treatment included targeted deep tissue massage and myofascial release to reduce tension, improve tissue mobility, and support more efficient movement. Education was also provided on simple strategies to maintain progress between sessions.

outcome

Brian experienced meaningful pain relief, improved mobility, and was able to return to daily activities with greater comfort and improved function.

Case Study: ART

Shoulder Pain Limiting Overhead Activity

Patient: Chris W., 36

Concern

Chris developed shoulder pain with overhead movements during workouts and recreational sports, limiting his ability to train and stay active.

assessment

Assessment identified soft tissue restrictions through the rotator cuff and surrounding musculature, contributing to reduced range of motion and pain with overhead activity.

treatment approach

Active Release Technique was used to target affected tissues, combined with guided movement to restore normal tissue function and reduce strain during overhead movements.

outcome

Chris experienced reduced pain, improved shoulder range of motion, and returned to full participation in workouts and sports without limitation.

Case Study: Incontinence Treatment

Improving Bladder Control and Reducing Leakage

Patient: Amanda T., 41

Concern

Amanda experienced urinary leakage during exercise, coughing, and sudden urges, which affected her confidence going out and staying active. She began avoiding workouts and social situations due to fear of accidents.

assessment

Assessment revealed reduced pelvic floor strength, impaired coordination, and decreased urge control contributing to leakage during both activity and daily life.

treatment approach

Treatment focused on pelvic floor strengthening, improving coordination and timing of muscle activation, and strategies to better manage urgency. A progressive return-to-exercise plan was also implemented.

outcome

Amanda reported less leakage, better bladder control, and no more accidents during daily activities. She was able to exercise without leaking, experienced improved pelvic floor strength and urge control, and regained confidence going out and staying active.

real reviews from google

Reviews From Our Patients

Meet The Founders

South Island Physiotherapy was built by three practicing physical therapists who designed the clinic around the kind of care they wanted to deliver. All three remain active clinicians.

All physiotherapists at South Island Physiotherapy are members of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association and registered with the College of Physical Therapists of BC.

Find South Island Physiotherapy

We are located at 888 Short Street in Victoria, BC, directly across from Uptown Mall. The center serves patients from across Greater Victoria, with ample parking available at the back and side of the building.

We serve Greater Victoria and surrounding communities:

  • Saanich
  • Oak Bay
  • Esquimalt
  • Langford
  • Colwood
  • Cordova Bay
  • Central Saanich
  • View Royal
  • Sidney
  • Metchosin

Frequently asked questions about South Island Physiotherapy

We offer physiotherapy, registered massage therapy, kinesiology, chiropractic care, and pelvic floor physiotherapy. Additional services include sports physiotherapy, ICBC and WorkSafeBC rehabilitation, shockwave therapy, IMS and dry needling, active release technique, running gait analysis, balance retraining, custom orthotics, strength and conditioning, and virtual care for patients across British Columbia.

We are at 888 Short Street in Victoria BC, directly across from the Uptown Mall in Saanich. Ample parking is available at the back and side of the building, and we are accessible from Oak Bay, Esquimalt, Langford, Colwood, and surrounding areas.

You can book online at southislandphysio.janeapp.com or call us directly at (778) 433-4900. If you cannot find an available time that works, adding yourself to our cancellation list is recommended, as openings come up regularly.

Yes. We accept ICBC claims for motor vehicle accident injuries and WorkSafeBC claims for workplace injuries. Our administrative team handles the claims process directly, with over a decade of experience in third-party billing navigation.

All of our physiotherapists are Registered Physical Therapists licensed in British Columbia through the College of Physical Therapists of BC. Our co-founders hold advanced credentials including a Master of Science in Physical Therapy, a CPA Board Directorship, and a Master of Physical Therapy from UBC with Gunn IMS certification.

Our approach is solutions-focused rather than symptom-focused. We combine evidence-based manual therapy with progressive exercise to produce durable recovery. All three co-owner physiotherapists remain active clinicians, and our integrated team of RMTs, kinesiologists, chiropractors, and pelvic health specialists provides coordinated care across every dimension of your recovery.

Our initial physiotherapy assessment is $135 for a 45-minute appointment or $200 for a 60-minute complex assessment, both of which include shockwave therapy where clinically appropriate. Return appointments range from $126 to $175 depending on duration. We direct bill most extended health benefit plans, so your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your coverage. Contact our admin team to confirm your plan.

Recovery timelines vary depending on the injury type, severity, and your individual health history. A straightforward ankle sprain managed well may take four to six weeks to return to full sport. Tendon conditions or post-surgical rehabilitation often take longer. At South Island Physiotherapy, we give you realistic timelines from your first appointment and update them as your recovery progresses.

Yes. Every physiotherapist at our clinic holds active registration with the College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia. You can verify any clinician’s registration through the CPTBC public registry at cptbc.org. We hold this as a non-negotiable standard of practice.

You do not need a referral from a physician to book with us. Physiotherapy is a direct-access service, meaning you can contact our clinic and book your initial assessment directly. Some extended health benefit plans do require a referral for reimbursement, so it is worth checking your policy before your appointment.

Ready to book your first appointment?

Victoria’s patients deserve care that addresses the root cause, with a team genuinely invested in long-term physical health.

South Island Physiotherapy’s co-owner physiotherapists and allied health team are accepting new patients across Greater Victoria. Book online or call to take the first step.