ABOUT US
ARC by Pivotal Physio
We’re on a path of strategically changing the landscape of physiotherapy in Edmonton and are at the crux of a time in the rehab world where people are really interested in moving better, moving more effectively, and moving more often. Therefore, with this new facility, we can shift our focus to the other end of the rehab spectrum and help improve your performance or facilitate your recovery depending on your personal needs and phase of training. This centre is suited to individuals who want to achieve performance goals. This could be from learning to run again after a broken ankle or achieving personal bests after a training program.
MISSION
Our mission at ARC by Pivotal is to deliver a model of service that supports the athlete and all of their individual needs. This model transcends the traditional concept of physiotherapy to include services such as injury prevention, injury management, athletic and mental performance, nutrition, and recovery.
VISION
We aim to be the premier destination in the Edmonton area for athletes looking to improve their movement, their performance, and their recovery. We will build and expand an integrated service model of injury management, return to sport planning, and performance (programming, enhancement, optimization).
VALUES
We offer a full backroom support team to athletes because we believe proper movement is crucial to maintaining a high level of function in sport and performance as well as high quality of life. Therefore, guidance along this journey with intelligent counsel is vital.
MEET THE PEOPLE AT ARC by PIVOTAL PHYSIO
JACK HAWORTH MScPT, CSCS, Acupuncture, Dry Needling, Exercise Physiology
Having completed my CSCS through the NSCA, I have a strong belief in functional rehabilitation and my treatment model is to facilitate tissue adaptation by prescribing functional exercise alongside anti inflammatory interventions. This is aimed at increasing tissue extensibility and joint range of motion with stretching and flexibility work, or to increase neuromuscular recruitment along with the associated strength benefits from a progressive loading program. I believe that alongside traditional techniques such as joint manipulation, dry needling and muscle energy techniques that functional rehabilitation offers the best potential outcome for all athletes and patients.
On my off time, I enjoy CrossFit, rugby, golf and exploring the great outdoors!
JACK HAWORTH
Physiotherapist
RAJ DHILLON BScPT, CAFCI, cGIMS, fCAMPT, Concussion Assessment & Treatment (CCMI), FMS, SFMA, EXOS Certified
CPA Orthopedic Advanced Exam (Part B), Manual Physiotherapy, Spinal Manipulation.
Hi I’m Raj, physiotherapist and co-owner here at ARC by Pivotal. I’m passionate about rehabilitative medicine, and I’ve been a full-time clinician for over 15 years. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy at the University of Alberta and completed post-graduate training in spinal manipulation, musculo-skeletal acupuncture and Gunn IMS. I am a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy (fCAMPT), and am FMS/SFMA certified
Physiotherapy is an extremely rewarding career for me. I’m really interested in motor vehicle injuries, athletic injuries, post-operative rehabilitation and complex clinical cases. I also have a role with the University of Alberta as a Clinical Instructor and a Curriculum Committee Member. I cherish the chance to help train the next generation of rehabilitation professionals.
I absolutely love the challenge of diagnosing musculoskeletal dysfunction. My treatment style is a combination of hands-on manual therapy, IMS, and condition-specific exercise prescription. My work is an opportunity to become engaged in people’s lives and work with them not only to ensure optimal rehabilitation, but also to get them back to the things that are important to them.
Inspiration comes to all of us in different ways. I enjoy being inspired by my wife and four children. I also like working out, playing basketball and taking an active role in bettering my community through supporting local events. Want to know more about me? Read my full interview on Facebook.
Raj Dhillon is a physiotherapist and Co-Owner at Pivotal Physiotherapy. He provides treatment at the Pivotal High Performance Centre in the Brewery District and ARC by Pivotal inside Evolve Strength Downtown.
RAJ DHILLON
Physiotherapist
CRAIG WILSON MSc Medical Sciences, BScPT, Acupuncture, GunnIMS, Concussion Assessment & Treatment
Although I have been practicing general orthopaedic physiotherapy for over 15 years, in the last 3 years I have been more keenly focused on developing the skills and techniques necessary to work with high performance athletes. My particular interest is exploring how movement science (FSM, SFMA) can be coupled to performance programming to ensure athletes have a safe and efficient route to obtain their goals. Whether you are looking to get back in the game or looking find your next level performance, I have the tools and experience to help you get there.
Whenever I get the chance, I enjoy mountain biking in the Edmonton river valley trails.
CRAIG WILSON
Physiotherapist
ROBYN CARIGNAN MScPT, Dry Needling
My treatment style is based on your individual needs and is grounded in therapeutic exercise, patient education, and manual therapy. My experience in kinesiology and personal training have provided me solid evidence that strength and conditioning is beneficial in a rehabilitation plan. Whether you are coming to see me due to a specific injury or your aim is to improve your mobility, health and fitness, I am here to help you achieve your unique goals. I enjoy working with all types of patients/athletes, but I have a strong interest in sports injury rehabilitation and prevention.
Outside of my position as a Physical Therapist, I have a strong passion for fitness. You will often find me training at Evolve, running in the river valley or sweating it out in a spin class. I have competed in two bodybuilding shows, two powerlifting meets, and ran my first half marathon in 2018. Over the last 2 years, running has been my new-found passion and I enjoy running all the local races.
ROBYN CARIGNAN
Physiotherapist
ABBEY OKE BScKin, MScPT
I have worked primarily in private practice treating a wide range of populations in the community ranging from geriatric orthopedic conditions to elite level sport injuries. My certifications include acupuncture, vestibular dysfunction including vertigo, dizziness and motion sensitivity and concussion rehabilitation. Most recently, I have developed a strong passion for concussion rehabilitation in sport. I work with my concussion clients to remove them from “rest” and gradually work towards symptom free activity by providing effective strategies and knowledge to achieve functional independence.
My favourite hobbies include running, snowboarding, hiking, cycling, swimming, figure skating and strength training. At different times of my life, I was a competitive swimmer, triathlete, and competitive figure skater who competed at the national level in synchronized skating. Most recently, I have retired from my competitive athletic career and enjoy participating in these activities for fitness and enjoyment. You can find me running along the river valley and cycling along the back roads on the weekends. My long-term goal is to complete an Ironman triathlon!
ABBEY OKE
Physiotherapist
JESSE KARPMAN MScPT
One of my favourite things about physiotherapy is the individuality of each client and I tailor my treatment style to match their needs. I use a combination of manual therapy and therapeutic exercise to help clients meet their goals. I grew up involved in a number of sports and have had my fair share of injuries over the years. These injuries and my return to sport goals have lead to numerous positive interactions with physiotherapists and I want to help others return to participating in what they love to do. I’ve had the opportunity to work as the therapist for the UofA Track & Field team for 3 years as well as with various rugby clubs. I have a keen interest in working with athletes and plan to work towards my Sport Physiotherapy Diploma.
My life outside of work involves a combination of sports and music. You may find me at the gym, at the rink, on the pitch or at the top of a mountain whether i get there by hiking, climbing or chair lift! You might also catch me playing some of your favourite tunes as a DJ around town. Some say i’m a bit of a foodie so if you’ve tried a new restaurant or microbrewery, I’m always interested to hear about them.
Jesse Karpman is a physiotherapist at Pivotal Physiotherapy. He provides treatment at the Pivotal High Performance Centre in the Brewery District and ARC by Pivotal inside Evolve Strength Downtown.
JESSE KARPMAN
Physiotherapist
MAREK KOMAR MMSc., MSc
Hi I’m Marek, Mental Performance Consultant here at ARC. I seek to understand one fundamental question: What is holding you back from performing at your best? From my own experiences as a high level competitive athlete I understood that it was mental toughness. This has led me to study the complex inner workings of the mind, completing a Kinesiology degree specializing in Sports Performance from the University of Alberta, earning a Master of Medical Science specializing in Sport Psychology from Lund University (Sweden), as well as a Master of Sport Science in Diagnostics and Intervention from Leipzig University (Germany). I am also a certified consultant/professional member of the Canadian Sport Psychology Association (CSPA).
I have had the privilege to work with various individuals, teams, and organizations (including, but not limited to sport) helping to enhance mental performance and group dynamics. My driving purpose is to help others understand and overcome their barriers in pursuit of peak performance and self-actualization. I have a variety of interests in performance and non-performance issues, ranging from effective team communication, life transitions, or finding flow in individual performance. When I am not annoying my clients with “Yoda” quotes, I enjoy staying competitive and healthy playing soccer, rock climbing, and trail running.
MAREK KOMAR
Mental Performance Consultant
JAY NAIDOO
JAY NAIDOO
Sport Massage Therapist
BRANDON PRIOR
In 2018, I was granted an internship with the Edmonton Eskimos for their season as their tissue and recovery coach and I’m grateful to continue with the team for the 2019 season. During this time, I gained plenty of experience treating pro athletes and their sport injuries. My treatment approach typically includes instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), myofascial release, joint mobilization, exercise prescription, and passive stretching.
In my off time, I like to play the drums, hiking in the mountains, playing with my dog, healthy cooking, and power lifting in the gym.
BRANDON PRIOR
Sport Massage Therapist
NELSON LAU BScKin, CSCS
I utilize a variety of evidence-based methods to improve athletic performance and prevent injury depending on the athlete’s sport demands. I emphasize the development of proper movement mechanics so that my athletes can train safely and effectively. Most recently, I was the strength and conditioning coach at the Okanagan Hockey Academy (Edmonton) – Elite 15 and Midget Prep teams. I also believe strength training is for everyone. Aside from sport performance training, I have experience as a personal fitness trainer working with individuals seeking general health and fitness.
Strength and conditioning is a lifestyle for me. In my free time, I enjoy reading about training and listening to sport podcasts. I can also be found in the gym experimenting with programs and training for Olympic weightlifting competitions. Aside from strength and conditioning I enjoy being outdoors and backpacking to foreign countries.
NELSON LAU
Strength & Conditioning Coach
DAVID THOMAS
Upon moving to Canada in 2016, I began working with Rugby Canada in talent ID as an academy S&C coach and during this time, I also worked with MacEwan’s basketball program. Most recently becoming the Edmonton Eskimos S&C coach in early 2018, working with professional sport on two different continents has given me a unique appreciation for S&C and expanded my knowledge greatly.
I use a wide variety of methods to help improve performance with the individuals I work with but rely on evidence based training and scientific principles. There are many paths that lead to the same goal of athletic improvement.
In my free time, I train and compete in powerlifting and have represented my home country of Wales on many occasions including the Commonwealth Games.
DAVID THOMAS
Strength & Conditioning Coach
Danielle Ordyniec
Experience:
- During my time at UW, I took part in their co-op program and gained valuable interning experience with McMaster University’s Strength and Conditioning program and Athletes’ Performance (EXOS) in Carson California. I worked with athletes in a variety of sports ranging from weekend warriors, to collegiate athletes, to professional athletes competing in the MLB, PGA, MLS, and NHL.
- Shortly after, I had a S&C position with Alberta Sport Development Centre in Grande Prairie where I integrated sport science services to athletes of various athletic levels.
- I also created the athletic development program at St. Joseph’s Catholic High School. I taught students the tools they needed to lead a successful active and healthy lifestyle.
- In 2013, I worked with Alberta Golf at Canada Summer Games where I furthered my understanding of athletes’ needs on the provincial level.
- In 2014 and 2016, along with the community, I represented the Northwest region at Alberta Games. In 2014 and 2016, I also represented the Northwest region at the Active Winter Games.
- Currently, I work as the S&C and Athletic Trainer at St. Francis Xavier High School academies and sports teams.
In my spare time, you can find me running, biking, swimming, climbing, hiking in the mountains, walking aimlessly around MEC, cheering on the Ticats, or drinking coffee and reading about S&C. Most recently, I was introduced to Edmonton’s Triathlon community and I am hooked – my 2020 goals include Hamilton’s Around the Bay 30km, Muskoka 70.3 Half Ironman, and eating all the doughnuts.
DANIELLE ORDYNIEC
Strength & Conditioning Coach
KEVIN HIROSE
Kevin’s training “philosophy” is that performance is enhanced and injuries are minimized through coaching biomechanically sound movements, regardless of the sport or activity. Specializing in strength training and performance enhancement, he also utilizes corrective exercise to work out muscular imbalances and asymmetries in order enhance performance and create a more durable athlete or client. Creating confidence and providing education to the client/athlete is also paramount as a coach.
As a youngster, Kevin played soccer, baseball, and competed in judo for about 10 years. And for much of his life, he has had a great interest in watching and practicing boxing ‘the sweet science’ and incorporates it into his own exercise regimen. He considers himself a lifetime student of the Strength and Conditioning field.
KEVIN HIROSE
Strength & Conditioning Coach
SHIRDI NULLIAH, MD, CCFP, ABFM, CAQ (Sport Med)
He is widely experienced as a Sports Medicine specialist within Canada and the US. He is currently a consultant for the Edmonton Bone and Joint Centre (foot and ankle triage), Spine triage (NASSA), and Royal Alexander Hospital Fracture Liaison Service (Medical Lead). He has previously worked as a consultant at the Edmonton Sports Institute IMaJIN program and at the PCN Ortho triage program which focused primarily on chronic injuries and featured in Edmonton Journal (June 14,2012) as a “Program helps many patients avoid orthopedic surgery”.
Dr.Nulliah’s scope of care, on and off the sports field, includes working with many amateur and professional athletes from over 27 sports. These include team physician with the Baltimore Ravens, the University of Maryland Terrapins, UMBC, Coppin State College, Marine Corps Marathon, TriRock Triathlon and multiple high school teams. Most recently, he was the head team physician for the inaugural 2019 season for the Edmonton Stingers basketball team. He is the Medical Director for Alberta Boxing, the team physician for Canada and USA Boxing as well as an AIBA International ringside physician. He has worked with Canadian UFC events and was one of the ringside physicians for the 2015 Toronto PanAM games and 2016 Rio Olympics.
Dr. Nulliah is passionate about making positive changes in the arenas of sports medicine and sport injury treatment in Edmonton. By incorporating a true multidisciplinary approach to treatment involving active interaction between physiotherapists, athletic trainers and Sports Medicine physicians with the intent to maximize sport injury recovery and return to play. He has recently partnered with ARC/HPC/Northgate by Pivotal Physiotherapy with the hope of strengthening relationships with other healthcare professionals while launching a Training Room style setting where athletes are able to access prompt medical treatment and intervention to facilitate a best case scenario for resumption of activities.
DR. SHIRDI NULLIAH
Sports Medicine Doctor