Anita Vandenberg joined the Physio Excellence team last February as a physiotherapist, with an interest in pelvic health, orthopedics and pilates. Since her first day at our practice, she has made a great impact on patients and team members, bringing her warmth, creativity and knowledge to even the most complex concerns. She packs quite an impressive toolbox for dealing in injuries and prevention, including her training in pilates. To get to know Anita better, we asked her to tell us a little bit more about herself.

What drew you to physiotherapy as your chosen profession?

Growing up as a dancer and athlete, I became interested in learning about anatomy and how the body worked. I found it fascinating that the body could heal itself after an injury. I had peers who saw physiotherapists and a high school co-op experience at a physiotherapy clinic confirmed my passion for helping people recover from various injuries and return to their goals.

What do you love most about your job?

I enjoy spending one-on-one time with each patient. I take this as an opportunity to educate patients on how to resolve their symptoms, and regain mobility.

Your training in pilates offers a unique perspective on treatment paths. How does pilates inform your work?

Pilates is not only effective for rehabilitation, but also prevention of injuries and conditions. I incorporate Pilates-based exercises with many of my clients whether for shoulder pain, low back pain, or ankle pain, and for pre and post natal care. The basis of Pilates is to learn how to coordinate the activation of your core 4 (pelvic floor, transversus abdominus, multifidus and diaphragm), which stabilizes your low back and pelvis, while moving other parts of your body.

What fact about the human body, or your areas of specialty in women's health and orthopedics, most surprised you as a student?

In anatomy labs we learned about connective tissue called fascia. It is a web-like thin glossy material that covers our entire body and connects our muscles, bones, organs and nerves. Dysfunction of this tissue can contribute to pain, limited mobility and imbalances throughout the body. I find it fascinating how I can manually release fascia in one area of the body to alleviate pain or dysfunction in another area. For example, releasing fascia in the neck or feet can help relieve pain and increase mobility in the low back.

What are you looking forward to bringing to Physio Excellence?

My holistic treatment methods; including manual therapy, acupuncture, craniosacral techniques, visceral mobilization, Pilates rehabilitation and pelvic health physiotherapy. As well, my individualized treatment plans to meet the patient's needs and enable them to return to their goals; my enthusiasm for working with such a great interdisciplinary health professional team.

If you would like to chat with Anita in person, call for an appointment.