Services
Our focus is providing comprehensive physiotherapy treatment to solve our patient’s individual needs.
We offer a wide variety of services and treatments, ensuring our patients receive the best care possible.
Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Clinic (AMSMC) Physiotherapy is an established and innovative clinic with long standing relationships within the sports medicine community. Our team of experienced therapists is committed to providing you with the highest level of care.
We take a hands-on approach to your rehabilitation and customize a plan for your recovery. Whether you are a recreational athlete or an elite performer, our goal is your safe return to activity as soon as possible.
Founded in 1981 at the University of British Columbia, the AMSMC was the pioneer in the multi-disciplinary treatment of sports injuries. Today, we remain a leading resource in sports medicine through our commitment to professional development and our support of research through the B.C. Sports Medicine Research Foundation. Our therapists are involved with students at UBC as clinical educators and mentors through our association with UBC’s Faculty of Medicine and Schools of Physical Therapy and Kinesiology. We are involved with the education of residents, fellows and practicing physicians and physiotherapists. Our physiotherapists have significant experience working with athletes at the highest levels of competition from provincial and national, to Olympic and professional.
We have a comprehensive approach to patient care. Educating patients about their condition and creating independence are the foundation of our programs and treatment plans. We go beyond alleviating symptoms and focus on understanding and identifying the root cause of the problem. With manual therapy and individualized exercises, we strive to restore function so that our patients are adequately prepared to return to sport while minimizing the risk of re-injury.
Our passion for sports extends beyond just the physical experience. Whether it’s for physical or mental health, the spirit of competition, or for lessons in teamwork and community building – we believe sport can have a profound positive impact on you and your family.
Our team of physiotherapists is involved with athletes in all facets of care, from injury prevention programs and on-field coverage, to post-game recovery and sport injury treatment. We understand what it’s like to be injured and the desire to return to activity and sport.
As a patient at AMSMC, you are in the care of a team of experienced and skilled health care professionals. Through our association with sports medicine physicians and surgeons and our participation in research and continuing education, we strive to ensure that our patients get the best help available. Our open environment clinics and our collaborative approach to rehabilitation nurture a team culture in your sport injury care and rehabilitation.
We offer a wide variety of services and treatments, ensuring our patients receive the best care possible.
We offer Active Rehabilitation programs which include 1-on-1 sessions with a registered kinesiologist who will provide individualized stretches and exercises to address patient injuries. Our kinesiologist works closely with our physiotherapists to develop a comprehensive exercise program designed to:
Active Rehabilitation is also offered as a service for those who have sustained injuries from a motor vehicle accident. This ICBC Active Rehabilitation is recommended for those who have gone through a course of acute care but require a more active approach to their recovery. The goal of Active Rehabilitation is to help you return to normal function with pain-free movement. This program will provide you with the knowledge you need to continue exercises independently and get back to active living.
Book an appointment
As athletes and active members in the sports community, we understand the impact injuries can have on an athlete’s physical and mental state. Our team of physiotherapists has unparalleled experience working with athletes of all levels, and many have been trained in the highest standard of care through Sport Physiotherapy Canada’s post-graduate program. Our Sport Physiotherapists take a collaborative approach, working directly with coaches, trainers, and athletes to provide pre-season conditioning, training camps, acute injury care, and complete rehabilitation to both individuals and teams.
At Allan McGavin, we believe the foundation of successful rehabilitation is quality patient care and education. Our team of physiotherapists will ensure that you fully understand the scope of your injury, potential causes, how it affects your body, and how to treat it. We’ll also provide advice on how to go about your day-to-day activities and the best approach to returning to your regular sport or activity. Our collaborative approach to patient care ensures that your support network of family, coaches, and other care providers are involved in your rehabilitation process.
Our Registered Kinesiologists offer personal training with a comprehensive exercise program to help you achieve your health and fitness goals. These workouts are tailored to your needs and will optimize results. An integral part of this personal training is education around proper form and body mechanics. Whether you want to lose weight, increase muscle mass, or train for a specific event, our kinesiologists will push you to become the best you can be. Personal training is a great option for those who have difficulty finding the time and motivation to exercise on their own: our kinesiologists will be with you every step of the way.
Our run club is unique. It is lead by our therapists who have a strong passion for running and keeping themselves and others injury free during training. The leaders wanted to create a club where runners could come together, have fun, and learn about how to get to the starting line injury free and cross the finish line strong. They want to help create a community where people can learn and practice an effective running program. We also call on others in the health and fitness community to share their expertise on running related topics such as nutrition, hydration, footwear, training loads, strength and conditioning, preventing common injuries, etc. Our run club welcomes people of all ability and experience levels, whether you are lacing up your runners for the first time, or trying to beat that personal best. We offer training for 5km, 10km and half marathons.
Many patients turn to orthopedic surgery for the ability to return to sports and recreational activities after an injury. Having both a pre-op and a post-surgical plan is key to your recovery and our therapists will provide pre-operative education, training, and therapeutic exercises to promote optimal results. Over the years, our clinic has established strong relationships with leading orthopedic surgeons and specialists in shoulder, knee, hip, and ankle injuries. Working with your surgeon’s rehabilitation protocols and recommendations, our therapists will determine individualized exercise plans, and any post-surgery bracing or equipment needs to ensure a risk-free return to your sport or activity at the highest level possible.
Common surgeries we deal with include:
Acupuncture is an ancient healing practice rooted in Chinese Medicine wherein fine needles are strategically placed into the skin to encourage natural healing, reduce or relieve pain, and improve function of affected areas of the body. It is often used in conjunction with physiotherapy and massage therapy, and as an alternative to medications.
Many of our physiotherapists are extensively trained and certified in performing acupuncture treatments. Their deep understanding of physiology and the human anatomy can be applied to ensure effective treatment for musculoskeletal injuries. Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce its own pain relieving chemicals called endorphins and improves the body’s energy and biochemical balance. For many patients, acupuncture is very effective in treating a variety of painful disorders, both acute and chronic.
IMS is a dry needling technique that is used to diagnose and treat myofascial pain. During IMS, small filament needles can be inserted either at the epicenter of taut, tender muscle bands (trigger points), or near the spine where the nerve root may have become irritated and supersensitive. Inserting needles deep into dysfunctional muscles may cause a reflex release of the muscle tension which helps reduce pressure on the nerve to alleviate pain and dysfunction. IMS relies heavily on a thorough physical examination of the patient by a certified practitioner.
We offer a variety of electrotherapy treatments used to promote healing, relieve pain, reduce swelling, and facilitate muscle contraction. These modalities include:
Each modality has a unique benefit and our physiotherapists may provide a recommendation based on your individual needs.
Our therapists are experienced using a wide variety of tape products and techniques. Athletic tape is often used to restrict mobility to prevent further tissue damage and allow the muscles, ligaments and joints to heal. K-tape is a flexible tape that when applied appropriately can facilitate muscle activity, improve proprioception, and reduce pain. Based on your individual needs, taping may be used as part of your physiotherapy treatment.
At Allan McGavin Sports Clinic, massage therapy is performed by a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) using a variety of hands-on techniques in order to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and promote rehabilitation. Prior to prescribing treatment, your massage therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis of your musculoskeletal injuries. Target tissues for massage therapy may include muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, joints, or other connective tissue, as well as lymphatic vessels and/or gastrointestinal organs. If necessary, your RMT may prescribe an integrated approach with our team of physiotherapists in order to promote a complete recovery and successful return to your sport or activity.
How well do you move? The Functional Movement Screen (FMS™) is an innovative system used to evaluate movement patterns that are critical to proper function. The screen is comprised of seven fundamental movements – each requiring a balance of mobility and stability. It readily identifies individuals with functional limitations and asymmetries that may lead to injury. Based on your FMS results, our therapists will prescribe specific corrective exercises to help prevent injuries and improve athletic performance.
We have experienced physiotherapists that can perform a customized bike fit to increase performance and reduce discomfort while cycling. The fitting begins off the bike with an initial assessment of mobility, alignment, and leg length. Your physiotherapist will then conduct a riding posture and biomechanical assessment with you on the bike before making any adjustments or recommendations to the five contact points – cleats (2), seat, and handlebars (2). The result is optimal biomechanical positioning with a bike fit that works with your body to improve comfort, reduce your risk of injury, and enhances your performance.
Manual Therapy involves a variety of specialized, hands on techniques administered by a physiotherapist. During joint mobilization, a therapist uses a specific technique applied to a spinal or peripheral joint in order to restore mobility. Soft tissue techniques utilize graded pressure directed at muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves in order to improve flexibility and normalize function. In combination with other treatments, manual therapy can help relieve your pain and improve the quality of your movement.
Running can be risky business when it comes to overuse injuries. Each year, more than 50% of runners will be sidelined with an injury. Whether you’re looking to get back to pounding the pavement after injury, improve your performance, or stay injury-free, our comprehensive running analysis will help decrease your risk of running injuries and improve your running performance. The 60 minute session will include the following:
The Assessment is conducted by Physiotherapist Julian Cooper, who has completed a training course with the Running Clinic and is an avid long distance runner.
Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to working with people to identify and maximize their ability to move and function throughout their lifespan. Specifically, physiotherapists can improve clients’ quality of life by:
Physiotherapy is anchored in movement sciences and aims to enhance or restore function of multiple body systems. The profession is committed to health, lifestyle and quality of life. This holistic approach incorporates a broad range of physical and physiological therapeutic interventions and aids.
As a dancer, proper management of both acute and chronic injuries is paramount to being able to perform at your peak. Helping to optimize your training and performance experiences is our primary goal using a wealth of treatment options based on current research and best practices. We will conduct a thorough review of the style of dance, past history and your goals as a dancer, to determine the unique challenges imposed on your body.
Services offered include:
The AMSMC at the Plaza is conveniently located within minutes of downtown major performing arts venues, training centres and academies. Our facility boasts a large gym area with mirrors, up to date equipment, wooden floor and ballet barre that allows for thorough evaluation and treatment of all injuries. Whether you are a pre-professional dancer, independent artist, choreographer or professional dancer, AMSMC is equipped to help you achieve your goals.
GLA:D® is an 8-week education and exercise program developed in Denmark for people with symptoms of knee or hip OA.This program will teach you the right way to move to reduce your OA symptoms. In Denmark, people taking the GLA:D® program have reduced pain, take fewer pain killers, take less time off work and are able to be more active.
In my practice, I’m often asked the same question over and over again. “Laszlo, I’m very active. I always have aches and pains. How do I know when I need…
Read more...Returning to competitive sport after major surgery can be a daunting task. How can you know when you are ready? And that your surgical site won’t be re-injured when you…
Read more...Did you know that the tennis serve makes up 45 to 60% of all strokes in a tennis match? As the most frequent and strenuous stroke in your game1,2, it’s…
Read more...At AMSMC, we’re patient-focused and we collaborate to provide the best treatment, service, and results for our patients.
Our experienced therapists are dedicated to ongoing professional development and community involvement. We are proud of our team and the clinical skills and innovation they will bring to your rehabilitation.
Alex has a special interest in sports injuries, lower limb injuries (hip, knee and ankle), sports performance, and age-related conditions.
Jared has a particular interest in sports injuries, trigger point therapy and deep tissue massage. He enjoys working with diverse groups of clientele in order to reduce their fascial restrictions and postural dysfunctions.
Harry Jerome International Track Classic
Mel Zajac International Swim Meet
Vanier Park Cyclocross (2017)
MEC Metro Vancouver Trail/Road Running Series (2017-present)
AAA Junior Varsity Football – Carson Graham Eagles (2017-present)
Vancouver Metro League soccer, and various forms of mixed martial arts (muay thai kickboxing, Brazilian ju-jitsu, boxing & wrestling).
Sean has a professional interest in working in a team environment alongside colleagues to provide a multidisciplinary approach to your case management.
He has been taking on a larger interest working with the running and canoe sport/dragon boat community to help manage training injuries and get people across the start and finish lines. He has taken additional course work in muscle energy, biomechanical assessment, and myofascial therapy to integrate as needed into your treatment plan.
Distance running (Half Marathon, Full Marathon), Dragonboat and Outrigger Canoe Racing
Alyssa has a special interest in individualized exercise programs to help clients achieve their health and fitness goals through personal training. She also enjoys the challenge of working with patients who have sustained injuries in a motor vehicle accident. Her goal with all clients is to have them return to normal function and incorporate activity into their lifestyle.
Volleyball B.C., weight lifting, and swimming.
Julian takes an interest in lower limb injuries (especially knees and ankles) and specializes in treating running injuries related to overuse.
Long-distance running (Top 15 finisher Seattle Marathon), rugby, soccer, tennis, floor hockey, golf, beach volleyball, and skateboarding.
Sheldon has a special interest in sports physiotherapy/sports related injuries, as well as neck, shoulder, back and hip pathology.
Hockey, soccer, tennis, golf, snowboarding, cycling, hiking/running, recreational triathlete.
Greg utilizes manual therapy, exercise prescription, patient education, functional dry needling and taping techniques to correct movement patterns that lead to injury. He has a special interest in hip, knee and shoulder rehabilitation, particularly in the sports community.
Weight lifting, basketball, rugby, cycling, running and volleyball.
Dylan enjoys working with athletes and active individuals. He has a interest in sport-related injuries such as ligament sprains and muscle strains. His active approach to treatments is designed to help patients return back to a functional and pain-free lifestyle.
Book with Dylan at our University Services Building location
Gurmeet has a strong interest in treating sports injuries and focusing on injury prevention. Gurmeet’s treatment style is rooted in manual therapy and exercise prescription with a strong emphasis on educating clients on their injury to help clients reach their rehabilitation goals.
Tennis, soccer, ball hockey and running.
Book with Gurmeet at our University Services Building location
JF has a special interest in running injuries and knee pain, which were the topics he extensively studied during his Masters and PhD. JF frequently provides lectures on the prevention and treatment of running injuries to health professionals and to the community through The Running Clinic.
Running (10km, half-marathon, marathon), soccer, hiking, cycling
Scott has a special interest in sports injuries and specializes in conditions of the foot and ankle, as well as lower extremity biomechanics.
Soccer, cycling and golf
Casey is committed to providing individualized patient focused treatment where the patient is an active member in their therapy. Casey has a special interest in running related injuries and helping athletes return to play. As a long-distance runner herself, Casey understands the importance of rehabilitating athletes safely back to their sport and promoting future injury prevention. Casey has a passion for working with athletes of all ages and is a strong believer in the benefits of combining individualized exercise prescription, patient education and using a hands-on approach to optimize function.
Long-distance running, hiking, cycling, snowboarding, weight lifting, yoga
Cathy specializes in working with dancers, musicians, and other performing artists, using manual therapy and exercise prescription for the rehabilitation of acute and chronic injuries.
Aquatic sports, long-distance running, tennis, golf, and general fitness.
Emily is focused on empowering her patients to achieve long-term results, utilizing evidence-based education, hands-on therapy, and therapeutic exercises. Emily works with patients of all ages and abilities, and has a special interest in youth athlete injuries, return to sport post-operatively, and hand injuries.
She has special interests in lower extremity, racket-sport & running related injuries, and also does bike fit.
Triathlons (completion of two Olympic distances 2016, 2017; Half Ironman Victoria 2018, Ironman Canada Whistler 2019 Finisher), soccer (B.C. Provincial Champions U16 & U18), badminton (Top 10 B.C. Ranking U19 Singles & Mixed Doubles), hiking, tennis.
Ryan has a special interest in endurance sports, knee injuries, repetitive strains, faulty movement patterns, general conditioning, pre/post-surgical rehabilitation, post concussion syndrome, and chronic pain management.
Triathlon (IRONMAN Canada x 2), ultra distance running, hiking, weight-lifting , & snowboarding.
Trish works with clients of all ages, including the aging athlete and injuries related to racquet sports, dance, and rugby.
Tennis, biking, golf, and swimming.
Jonathan enjoys working with an active population to help clients restore function and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Jonathan is an active individual who enjoys participating in activities such as tennis, running, and weight lifting.
Zenya’s special interest is in treating back, hip/groin, and lower body injuries. He also performs custom bike fits to ensure optimal comfort, performance, and prevention of injuries.
Junior A Ice Hockey, Cat 3 Road Cycling, BC Triathlons, and 10 km Bay Challenge Solo Swim.
Heather has a special interest in shoulder rehabilitation, using both manual therapy and exercise prescription to optimize function.
Soccer, running, basketball, yoga and golf.
Laura has a strong interest in sport related injuries and strives to optimize body mechanics and performance using functional and sport specific exercises and the most up to date evidence-based practice. Her intervention focuses on hands on manual therapy, active rehabilitation and education to prevent re-injury.
Varsity Rowing at Oregon State University, basketball, volleyball, soccer, golf, snowboarding
Ryan has a special interests in injuries of the hip, on field Physiotherapy and sport performance, bike fitting and the treatment of cycling related injuries.
Professional soccer in CPSL and Nationwide Conference, Head and Assistant Coach for Daemen College Soccer, Avid Cyclist and Skier
Special interest in sports injuries and specializes in shoulders and spinal conditions
Ice hockey and baseball, Commissioner of AMSMC – Physio Hockey Pool
Eric is committed to providing individualized, goal-oriented care, consisting primarily of manual therapy, exercise prescription and patient education. He has a special interest in sports injuries, lower extremity (Hip, Knee, Ankle) injuries and shoulder rehabilitation.
Rugby, Baseball, Soccer, Hockey, Golf, Cycling and Skiing.
Mark is passionate about getting clients back to their normal lives and promoting physical activity across the lifespan. He enjoys playing a role in helping clients make long-lasting changes in their lives. He also has a special interest in issues at the shoulder.
UBC Athletics (Baseball) – Student Athletic Trainer (2016 – 2018)
World Gymnaestrada 2015, 2019 – Team Canada
Soccer, Baseball, Track, Football, Rugby, Gymnastics, Volleyball, Cross-country
Ron specializes in shoulder rehabilitation and re-education for overhead injuries related to swimming, baseball, volleyball, and racket sports.
Ice hockey, sport fishing.
Russell believes that when it comes to rehab, the most powerful tool is movement. Through a variety of manual therapy techniques, client education, and individualized therapeutic exercises, his client-centered, active approach can optimize movement and empower people to take control of their bodies. From desk jockeys to professional athletes, Russell enjoys working with a wide range of populations.
Andrea specializes in the management of sports injuries, and with three small children has developed an interest in care of the active pregnant and post-natal client.
Cycling (cross-country and road), running, golf, gymnastics and downhill skiing.
Rhiannon empowers clients to re-engage in meaningful daily activities. She has experience working with adults recovering from motor vehicle and work-related accidents, with a special interest in concussion management, ergonomics, wheelchair seating and positioning, and adapted sport.
Track and field, cross-country running, trail running, soccer, yoga, and skiing.
Clyde’s specialty lies in chronic injuries as they relate to pelvic and back alignment, including total joint replacement, rehabilitation exercise and healing therapy.
OSU “Giant Killers” Football Team, U of A Football Team, Coached U of A Football, Cycle Touring
Diploma of Massage Therapy
Laszlo is extremely passionate and committed to minimizing pain and discomfort, while improving function and quality of life of his patients through massage therapy.
He’s taken additional courses in deep tissue, myofascial, neuro-muscular therapy, muscle energy, trigger point work, and end range loading.
Swimming, canoeing, hiking, weightlifting.
Tabitha enjoys working with active individuals in a culture of teamwork. She hopes to give her patients the best care to get them back to their daily routine
Swimming CIS University National finalist, running, surfing, tennis, hiking and skiing.
Elliott has a special interest in sports physiotherapy and knee injuries. His treatment approach consists of manual therapy-based intervention with a focus on body mechanics during return to play.
UBC Men’s Varsity Soccer Team and road cycling
Book with Elliott at our University Services Building location
Kevin is interested in sport physiotherapy with a major focus on exercise and manual therapy. He has special interest in knee and shoulder injuries as well as return-to-play rehabilitation.
Baseball, basketball, football, golf
Dan uses a variety of manual therapy, dry needling, and exercise-based techniques—merging his passion for strength and conditioning into his physiotherapy practice. He loves working with all kinds of athletes including golfers, swimmers, bodybuilders, and weightlifters. As a father of two young toddlers he also recognizes the unique physical challenges that come with being a parent. He has a special interest in shoulder, hip, and knee rehabilitation.
Golf, CrossFit, weightlifting, water polo (Vancouver senior, varsity, provincial, and Junior National teams)
t. 604.822.6833
f. 604.630.7088
info@allanmcgavinphysio.com
(Primary Care, please call 604.822.3614)
See Locationt. 604.822.0150
f. 604.822.0151
wargym@allanmcgavinphysio.com
t. 604.827.0739
f. 604.827.0751
usb@allanmcgavinphysio.com
t. 604.642.6761
f. 604.642.6762
plaza@allanmcgavinphysio.com
t. 604.904.6556
f. 604.914.2163
twist@allanmcgavinphysio.com
2553 Wesbrook Mall,
Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3
t. 604.822.6833
f. 604.630.7088
(Primary Care, please call 604.822.3614)
Click here for parking information.
6081 University Blvd,
Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z1
t. 604.822.0150
f. 604.822.0151
wargym@allanmcgavinphysio.
PARKING AT WAR MEMORIAL GYM:
If you are attending physiotherapy at The War Memorial Gym, please be aware that due to ongoing heavy construction, there are significant parking changes resulting in little to no parking surrounding the gym. Parking is available at UBC Hospital and behind Mahony & Sons, or see the additional suggestions the Thunderbirds have offered for parking options.
We apologize for any inconvenience.
Room 0044 – 2329 West Mall
Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4
t. 604.827.0739
f. 604.827.0751
B103 – 750 Pacific Blvd.
Vancouver, BC, V6B 5E7
t. 604.642.6761
f. 604.642.6762
plaza@allanmcgavinphysio.com
At Plaza of Nations, parking is available via two metered parking lots adjacent to our clinic.
Please click here to see the parking map and rates.
12 – 1225 East Keith Rd.
North Vancouver, BC, V7J 1J3
t. 604.904.6556
f. 604.914.2163
twist@allanmcgavinphysio.com