This is a series where each of our clinical team writes about why they love what they do and their journey to Changepain. Stay tuned every month for a new blog post.
I believe that exercise can change lives.
I never got into physiotherapy because of sports or athletics. Many of my peers had been through injuries of their own which had sparked their fascination of human rehab. However, my interests have always been working with the general population –where slight changes in one’s health can have large effects.
Improving the leg strength of a grandmother so she can maintain her independence. Witnessing the gradual changes of physical activity to elevate a young man’s mood. Building a safe environment for a mother who is now consistently strength training in our gym.
These are only a few examples of what happens on the daily. Each day building on the next.
In 2018, I started my first ever professional job at Changepain as a fresh Kinesiology graduate.
Entering the world of chronic pain as a new grad was no joke. The learning curve was steep and the problems more complex than expected. The difference between treating acute and chronic pain were worlds apart and unfortunately the clinical application of pain science and movement were not as widely understood.
I not only worked as a Kinesiologist but also as an admin assistant for the clinic. Remember, this was before the use of AI, so part of my role was taking notes in the room for our doctors. Reflecting back, I couldn’t have been more thankful.
During these years, I had front row seats to patient stories, countless hours of practical observation of procedures, treatments, and interactions. I didn’t know it at the time, but this was a blessing in disguise.
In 2020, I moved to Oxford, UK to pursue a Masters of Physiotherapy.
These short few years had formed some of the greatest memories to date. I’m proud to say I played competitive hockey with Oxford University.
Many days of the stereotypical morning practices, the rushed taxi back to campus to attend lecture while sweat was beading on the small of my back.
I was also grateful to have experienced healthcare in another country and system. Being exposed to many different specialties made me realize one common theme –the experience of pain is common among us.
No matter what disease, condition, culture, or country, we all experience our own unique pain. It is one of the core features of our biology yet, why is not better understood? How can someone’s contextual experience of pain differ so greatly?
I was fascinated by this and continued to explore how we can package our understanding of pain science, movement, lifestyle interventions, and interpersonal skills into therapy.
I returned to Changepain Clinic in 2022, with more tools and a wider scope to empower long lasting change. Our patients build on their experiential journey, striving to improve day by day; and so too should your healthcare professionals.
One of my greatest passions is to show people that anyone can exercise. It’s safe, less complicated than you think and of course, it’s good for you!
Movement is the jumpstart to all the fantastic lifestyle changes such as improving nutrition, optimizing sleep, elevating mood and cognition.
In this way, we can focus on health rather than disease.
Did you know increasing your walking to 7500 steps per day was associated with a 42% lower prevalence of depression? Regular exercise was also shown to lower inflammatory markers by up to 30%!
I see a lot of complex patients with multiple comorbidities and widespread pain. I also see many who are fit and want to stay that way –this is what makes my job challenging and fulfilling. To create opportunities to feel hopeful for tomorrow is no easy task, especially for someone who has been in pain for years.
My patients are my inspiration, and I am grateful to be part of their journeys.
I truly believe exercise can change lives and I do this through physiotherapy
Ready to start your physiotherapy journey?
Our Allied Health Coordinator can help you schedule:
📞 604-566-9101 ext. 2
📧 rehab@changepain.ca
