Physiotherapist BScPT CAFCI CGIMS

Karen is a fantastic therapist, I fully trust her advice, knowledge, expertise. I have established a monthly reoccurring appointment with her because I value the contribution she makes to my physical well being.Sarah Hart

Ten years

Ten years? Has it really been that long since I graduated from the UBC’s Physiotherapy program?  It’s gone by in a flash!  And to think it was 25 years ago that I first met a physiotherapist.  Sounds like I’m old, or very injury prone!

I was first inspired to become a physio while I was a competitive synchronized swimmer.  I could usually “get through” the training season, but often required some “help” once the intensity of competition begun.  And thanks to a team of helpers; physio, massage therapist, trainer, coaches, parents (it was a big team), I had a great career as a swimmer, competing nationally and internationally for 10 years.

And now for the last 10 years, I’d like to think I’ve become “the help” or at least part of the team of helpers.  Over the years the teams I’ve worked with have varied, but there has always been great support, dedication and a vast base of knowledge and experience for me to learn from.

When I first graduated, I worked with a few talented teams of therapists at GF Strong, helping people from all over BC who had suffered a traumatic brain or spinal cord injury. This was an incredible opportunity to see many specialities and different forms of therapy come together to help people successfully return to their communities.

Thank you for your help, Karen. It made all the difference. Alison went from being in pain and unable to climb, to a place on the national team. She is currently training hard.Iain Stewart-Patterson

Assistant Professor
THOMPSON RIVERS UNIVERSITY

From there, I went to check out some of these communities myself.  I spent time working in Smithers, Quesnel, Williams Lake, and Prince George to name a few.  And again, I was surrounded by some amazing therapists who provide a wide variety of services to these small towns.

As my skills as a physio were expanding, so was my love of sports.  Rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, backcountry skiing, cross country skiing, triathlons, biathlons to name a few – so what better place to live than Squamish?

And Squamish certainly is the right fit for me: all the things I love to do recreationally, plus a chance to be part of a great team of helpers.  We are so lucky in Squamish, and in particular at Reach to have such a diverse and talented team of health professionals.

To bring my story full circle, for the past two years I have had the opportunity to build on my skills as a physio and my experience as an athlete by working with Quest University’s athletic teams. The coaches and athletes are positive, talented and determined group, and it is my pleasure and privilege to be a part of their team.

Ten years?

Ten years as a physiotherapist.  That feels good.  I love being part of the “helping” team, and I look forward to what the next ten years will bring.  As a physio.  As part of the healthcare team.  And part of the community of Squamish.

To view Karen’s online schedule use this link.

Check out Karen’s Favourite Stretch here.

Article link from Karen on Cortisone Injections: http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/10/27/do-cortisone-shots-actually-make-things-worse/?ref=health