Welcome to Strathcona Physical Therapy

Restore. Strengthen. Progress.

At Strathcona Physical Therapy, we stand as a cornerstone in Alberta's physical therapy landscape, proudly serving the Edmonton community for over 55 years. As one of the original physiotherapy clinics in Alberta, we are deeply rooted in our commitment to the well-being of every patient. With strong connections to the University of Alberta, we leverage a tradition of excellence and deep-seated expertise in physiotherapy. Our dedicated team is here to guide you on your path to recovery and improved health, ensuring each visit moves you towards greater vitality and wellness.

Experience Excellence in Physiotherapy

  • Receive comprehensive, insurance-coordinated treatment for injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents, ensuring a smooth recovery process. Discover more

  • Specialized services for workplace injuries, facilitating claims and rehabilitation through WCB protocols. Discover more

  • Pioneers in TMJ treatment in Alberta, working closely with dentists, doctors, and the Oral Facial Pain Clinic at the University of Alberta to deliver effective care. Discover more

  • Expert care for orthopaedic and sports-related injuries, helping athletes and individuals regain strength and function. Discover more

  • Targeted therapies for vestibular disorders, addressing balance and dizziness issues to enhance daily living. Discover more

  • Comprehensive strategies for concussion recovery, focusing on symptom management and safe return to activities. Discover more

  • Home to dry needling specialists, offering targeted treatments to alleviate muscle pain and improve mobility. Discover more

Our Team of Physiotherapists

Jennifer Poon, MScPT
Registered Physiotherapist
Jennifer Poon earned her Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Alberta, preceded by a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with Distinction. Her fascination with the intricacies of the human body and the deep satisfaction of building patient relationships solidified her commitment to physiotherapy. With experience spanning across varied demographics, from paediatric to geriatric patients, Jennifer champions a patient-centric approach. Recognizing the uniqueness of each individual, she meticulously tailors treatment programs to align with their specific requirements. Her methodology underscores the power of therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and patient education, all converging to foster optimum recovery. Her aim is not only to address immediate concerns but to instill a long-lasting sense of self-management and empowerment in her patients. Outside the professional realm, Jennifer maintains an active lifestyle by engaging in diverse fitness routines, including boxing, dance, and weight training. Her weekends are often spent cherishing moments with loved ones or delving into the city's culinary scene, often penning insightful mini-reviews of her gastronomic discoveries.

Noman Anwari, MScPT BSc (Hons)
Registered Physiotherapist, Clinic Owner/Director
Training in Sports, Vestibular & Concussion Rehab, IMS/dry needling specialist, Spinal Manipulation, and Persistent Pain.

Noman's academic background includes a master's degree in Physical Therapy from the esteemed University of Alberta, complemented by a bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences (with honours) and a minor in Psychology, earned at York University in Toronto. His extensive educational journey has equipped him with a solid foundation in healthcare and a deep understanding of human physiology. With a wealth of experience, Noman has effectively assessed and treated patients grappling with chronic pain, musculoskeletal injuries, and sports-related injuries. He holds certifications and has pursued advanced training in concussion and vestibular rehabilitation, spinal manipulations and he is an IMS/dry needling specialist. His treatment approach encompasses various modalities such as manual therapy, corrective exercises, IMS/Functional Dry Needling, K-tape bracing, and electrical modalities, all aimed at facilitating his patients' return to their cherished activities and lifestyles. Beyond his professional pursuits, Noman is an avid outdoor enthusiast, finding joy in hiking and participating in sports like soccer and baseball. His commitment to a healthy lifestyle is further evident through his regular workouts at the gym. Furthermore, he demonstrates his dedication to the community by volunteering at the Alberta Hospital and CASA Edmonton, where he extends his support to youth and families grappling with mental health conditions. Noman Anwari's impressive credentials, commitment to ongoing learning, and passion for helping others make him a valuable asset in the field of physiotherapy and a compassionate advocate for mental health in the community.

Gerald Gosselin, MRSc BScPT
Registered Physiotherapist
Gerald holds a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Medicine from the University of British Columbia as well as a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Alberta. 
Gerald is a highly skilled physiotherapist with extensive post-graduate education, specializing in various areas such as Functional Dry Needling, Manual Spinal Therapy, Acupuncture, Sports Trauma Management, and Sports Nutrition. Over the last 20 years he has been the Head Physical Therapist for various Cirque du Soleil touring productions travelling around the world.  Previously, he worked in private practice and was the Head Trainer for the UofA women’s soccer team. He is fluently bilingual (French and English). His extensive experience combined with his focus on health and wellness has helped his patients from all backgrounds achieve their goals. Gerald lives in the neighbourhood but continues to explore the world with his wife and two school aged girls.

Ed Steinbring, PT BSc.
Registered Physiotherapist
Graduated from University of Alberta in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. Ed joined the team at Strathcona Physical Therapy in 1983 and became partner in 1984. In addition to practicing, Ed is an associate clinical professor at the University of Alberta in both Dentistry/Medicine and Rehabilitation Medicine Faculties.
Ed has completed post-graduate courses/certificated in: Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), acupuncture, sports injury rehabilitation and manipulative therapy.
Ed has competed in numerous triathlons including two half iron man, two iron mans and several world champions.

Martin Parfitt
Registered Physiotherapist
After working at Strathcona Physical Therapy for 40+ years Martin has officially retired. Martin will be greatly missed at Strathcona Physical Therapy but we wish him the best in his retirement! We will continue to see TMJ patients in his absence. Our Therapist, have specialized training and we have 20+ years working with the University of Alberta Dentistry and Oral Facial Pain Clinic.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Getting into a car accident can be scary, painful and can lead to added stress. Patients that have been injured by a motor vehicle incident can rest assured that we are able to provide services and can coordinate with insurance companies for your treatment. Please be advised that you should talk to your insurance company before booking an appointment. Check with our clinic and bring in the proper paperwork that is given by the insurance company. It is recommended that you are seen as soon as possible after an MVA incident due to time frame restrictions. If you have any questions regarding number of treatments, time frame etc. please call our office.

Workers Compensation Board

Strathcona Physical Therapy - Your Trusted Provider for WCB Services and Treatment

We are WCB providers, which means we treat patients that have been injured at work and when approved by Workers Compensation Board will cover treatments. Coverage for treatment varies depending on your injury and your recovery. Inform receptionist that it is a WCB claim and bring the proper paperwork provided by a WCB claim manager. If you have any questions regarding number of treatments and paper work requirements do not hesitate to call our clinic. 

At Strathcona Physical Therapy, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that workplace injuries can have on individuals. That's why we're committed to providing top-notch WCB (Workers' Compensation Board) services and treatment to help you on your journey to recovery.
We have a specialized team of professionals who are well-versed in dealing with WCB cases. We work closely with both the injured workers and the WCB case managers to ensure comprehensive care and a smooth rehabilitation process.
Our primary goal is to assist you in returning to work in a safe and timely manner. To accomplish this, we offer a range of services and treatments tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced therapists utilize evidence-based techniques and the latest advances in physical therapy to facilitate your recovery.
One of our key services is a thorough assessment of your injury. Our skilled therapists will evaluate your condition and develop an individualized treatment plan, taking into account both your physical limitations and your work requirements. This personalized approach ensures that we address your unique needs and get you back to work at full capacity.
Throughout the treatment process, we offer a wide array of therapeutic interventions aimed at reducing pain, enhancing mobility, and improving functional abilities. These may include manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, modalities like heat or cold therapy, as well as education on injury prevention and self-management techniques.
At Strathcona Physical Therapy, we place a strong emphasis on facilitating open communication and collaboration between all parties involved in your WCB case. We work closely with your case manager to ensure timely reporting, effective coordination, and efficient progress updates.
Moreover, we understand the importance of keeping up with the paperwork associated with WCB claims. Our administrative team is well-versed in dealing with WCB documentation, billing, and follow-up requirements, alleviating this burden from your shoulders.
As a trusted provider of WCB services and treatment, Strathcona Physical Therapy prides itself on its reputation for delivering compassionate, high-quality care. We are dedicated to empowering our patients to overcome their work-related injuries and achieve the best possible outcomes.
If you've been injured at work and require WCB services and treatment, don't hesitate to contact Strathcona Physical Therapy. Our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way, helping you get

TMJ Treatment

Our Therapist at Strathcona Physical Therapy are trained to assess and treat problems of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and works closely with the Oral Facial Pain clinic at the University of Alberta dealing with TMJ patients. TMJ is a complex joint that can leave patients in pain when chewing, talking, difficulty sleeping, and headaches. Together with dentists and doctors, we can help patients recover from trauma and surgery.

TMJ Services and Treatment at Strathcona Physical Therapy
At Strathcona Physical Therapy, we understand the significant impact that temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can have on one's quality of life. TMJ disorders can cause a range of symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, facial discomfort, and difficulty in opening or closing the mouth. That's why our skilled team of therapists is dedicated to providing comprehensive TMJ services and treatments to help individuals regain their oral health and well-being.
When you arrive at our clinic seeking TMJ services, our experienced therapists will conduct a thorough evaluation to assess the underlying causes of your TMJ disorder. This evaluation may involve reviewing your medical history, obtaining X-rays or other imaging studies, and performing a physical examination. With a clear understanding of your unique condition, we can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Our treatment approach for TMJ disorders often involves a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and patient education.

Manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilizations and soft tissue release, are used to improve the mechanics of the jaw joint and surrounding structures. These hands-on techniques can help reduce pain, increase range of motion, and restore normal function.
Therapeutic exercises play a crucial role in TMJ treatment at our clinic. Our therapists will guide you through a series of exercises designed to strengthen the jaw muscles, improve coordination, and promote proper alignment of the jaw joint. These exercises can be tailored to your abilities and gradually progressed as you make progress.
Education is an integral part of our TMJ services. We believe that empowering our patients with knowledge about their condition and self-care strategies promotes long-term success. During your treatment, our therapists will provide valuable information on lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, and ergonomic adjustments that can alleviate TMJ symptoms and prevent future flare-ups. We also encourage open communication with our patients, ensuring that we address any concerns or questions along the way.
At Strathcona Physical Therapy, we strive to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in TMJ treatment. Our therapists integrate evidence-based practices with their extensive clinical experience to deliver exceptional care. We maintain a collaborative approach, working closely with your dental professionals or other healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated treatment plan.
If you are suffering from TMJ pain or discomfort, don't let it limit your daily activities any longer. Take the first step towards improving your oral health by scheduling an appointment with our dedicated team at Strathcona Physical Therapy.

Orthopaedics/Sports Injuries

Restore your strength and flexibility with personalized orthopedic care from the professionals at Strathcona Physical Therapy.

Conditions We Treat

Injuries or illnesses that affect your bones, joints, muscles, or tendons can make it hard to do your daily activities. Rely on our team to assess and treat:

  • Arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, bursitis, and gout

  • Post-surgical and post-fracture rehabilitation

  • Strains, sprains, and other injuries

  • Sports-related injuries in adults and children

  • Metabolic bone disease and osteoporosis

  • Pain that affects the hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, foot, or ankle

Concussion Management


The Benefits of Physical Therapy

Concussion therapy is a highly useful tool in supporting recovery from traumatic brain injury. During concussion therapy, you can expect to work with a highly experienced physical therapist who will evaluate the severity of your brain trauma and match you with tricks and strategies that can reduce discomfort, alleviate painful symptoms, and improve brain functionality.

All too often, it is these symptoms of a concussion that lead to the greatest amount of discomfort. Physical therapy can encourage a return to feeling better by restoring strength to atrophied muscles and improving endurance. This can be achieved through a combination of muscle-training activities and aerobics. However, it is important to work with a physical therapist to gain guidance regarding the best activities for your body’s needs post-brain injury. Working out alone could lead to further injury. Your physical therapist will customize a strength-building program for you, as well as guide you through aerobic moves that help you regain that endurance.

In addition to physical and occupational therapy, additional strategies like targeted massage, specific stretches, and even eye motion training can help to reduce headaches and nausea following a concussion. Physical therapy programs for concussion often build in vestibular therapy, which helps you orient yourself during periods of lightheadedness or loss of balance. To encourage this your physical therapist will introduce you to specialized activities, including fixing your gaze at a certain point in the distance, or using simple movements to stabilize your core and limbs. With proper guidance these strategies can be incredibly helpful in improving quality of life as you recover from a concussion.

A concussion is not something you can ignore. Regardless of the perceived severity, following a brain injury it is incredibly important that you check in with a physician to ensure that there is no potential for lasting brain damage. If you or a loved one have experienced a concussion, Contact Us today at Strathcona Physical Therapy to learn more about concussion treatment and therapy options.

Vestibular

Some of our therapists specialize in treating vestibular problems and have taken advanced courses in that area. The vestibular system helps deliver signals to the brain to help with body orientation and movement. If the vestibular system is damaged or sending inappropriate signals this can lead to dizziness, the sense of the room spinning (vertigo), nausea, and imbalance. The most common vestibular dysfunction is called BPPV. BPPV is caused when small crystal like structures get relocated into the wrong area of the system. The relocated crystals disrupts neurological signalling and results in vertigo, feeling that you are spinning or the world is spinning around you. Due to the large amount of components that are involved in the vestibular system, assessment and treatments can be longer than a normal session. During vestibular assessment and treatments the signs and symptoms you suffer might increase, sometimes the signs and symptoms need to get worse for recovery. 

DRY NEEDLING/IMS

Dry Needling is also known as intramuscular stimulation (IMS) and trigger point dry needling (TDN). It is a safe, effective, and efficient treatment used to:

  • Relax myofascial trigger points, and

  • Restore normal muscle tones, muscle length, coordination, function, and strength

    Dry needling involves the insertion and repetitive manipulation of a "dry", solid filament needle in a trigger point in order to produce an involuntary spinal cord reflex, also known as a local twitch response (LTR). This results in lasting muscle relaxation due to the release of shortened bands of muscle fibers for overactive (tight) muscles or the activation of under-active (weak) muscles. Deactivation of the trigger points can bring immediate relief of symptoms, so the therapist can immediately train the muscles to work with the newly gained pain-free range of motion (ROM).

Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture

Dry needling is similar to acupuncture in the sense that a dry, solid filament needle is inserted and manipulated under the skin to release endorphins and serum cortisol for pain relief. The difference is that dry needling is based on western neuroanatomy and modern scientific study of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It creates balance in the body by influencing the flow of Qi (energy) in pathways called meridians to achieve pain relief and alleviate inflammation.

Conditions Treated by Dry Needling

Dry needling has successfully been used to treat a variety of conditions including:

  • Head and Neck Pain - including whiplash and headaches/migraines, degenerative joint disease, degenerative disk disease or osteoarthritis

  • Otological (Ear) and Ophthalmological (Eye) Pain - including tinnitus and eye strain

  • Dental (Teeth) and Orthodontic (Jaw and Occlusal) Pain - including cavities, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, tooth impaction, and root problems

  • Shoulder Pain - including rotator cuff muscle tears, bursitis, adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), tendonitis, and impingement syndrome

  • Elbow Pain - including lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) and medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow)

  • Hand and Wrist Pain - including gamekeeper's thumb, DeQuervain's syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, degenerative joint disease, and osteoarthritis

  • Back and Hip Pain - including lumbar degenerative disc disease, arthritic changes, and herniated discs

  • Knee Pain - including degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis

  • Shin / Ankle / Foot Pain - including shin splints, gout, metatarsalgia, and Morton's neuroma

  • Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)

  • Acute and Chronic Tendonitis

  • Athletic and Sports-related Overuse Injuries

  • Post-surgical Pain

  • Post-traumatic Injuries, Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA), and Work-related Injuries

  • Other Chronic Pain Conditions - including myofascial pain and myofascial pain syndrome (MPS)