Repetitive strain injury physiotherapy.
Repetitive strain injuries develop through cumulative microtrauma, the result of repeating the same movement pattern, force, or posture without adequate recovery. Common in healthcare workers, tradespeople, office workers, and musicians, RSIs are highly responsive to structured rehabilitation when addressed before they become chronic.
Who It's For
Workers experiencing repetitive strain presentations including lateral epicondylalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, De Quervain's tenosynovitis, shoulder impingement from overhead work, or patellar tendinopathy from kneeling trades. Both WorkSafeBC-funded and extended health patients.
What We Assess
We assess the specific tissue involved, the cumulative load history, biomechanical contributors, and relevant neural sensitivity. Understanding why the injury developed, not just where, is essential to prevent recurrence.
Treatment Approach
RSI treatment follows a load management model: reduce the provocative load, restore tissue capacity progressively, address biomechanical contributors, and build tolerance for the specific work demands. Education on load management between sessions is central to lasting outcomes.
Recovery Pathway
Load Reduction & Tissue Calming
Identify and modify the primary provocative load, reduce tissue irritability, and begin gentle capacity building.
Progressive Tendon Loading
Eccentric and isometric loading protocols to rebuild tendon and soft tissue capacity systematically.
Work-Specific Demand Return
Gradual reintroduction of occupational demands with biomechanical correction to prevent recurrence.
Clinic Location & Access
Located at 1367 West Broadway in Vancouver, Motion Theory is situated in the Fairview medical corridor, in close proximity to Vancouver General Hospital (VGH). We serve patients from Kitsilano, Mount Pleasant, and the broader Metro Vancouver area.
Common Questions
I have had this RSI for over a year. Is it too late for physio?
No. Chronic RSIs respond very well to structured loading protocols, even after years of symptoms. The key is shifting from passive management to progressive tendon loading under a proper program.
Do I need to take time off work for an RSI?
Rarely. Most RSIs can be managed while you continue working, with targeted load modification strategies for your specific occupational tasks.
Is WorkSafeBC coverage available for RSI?
Yes. Repetitive strain injuries are recognized as compensable workplace conditions under WorkSafeBC if they are work-related. We can help document the clinical picture to support your claim.
Related Services
Registered Clinicians
All practitioners are registered with their respective provincial colleges in British Columbia.
Evidence-Based
Treatment protocols are grounded in current peer-reviewed literature and clinical guidelines.
Direct Billing
Available for ICBC claims and most major extended health benefit providers.