Our Team

Krista Paulson

Physiotherapist
Certified Hand Therapist
Acupuncture Provider

Education, experience and enthusiasm set Krista apart. From her first encounter with a physiotherapist as a pediatric burn patient, Krista realized the importance of the role of rehabilitation in health care. Her lifelong interest in Physiotherapy is apparent by her ongoing commitment to professional development throughout her career.

  • •Bachelor of Science degree: University of Winnipeg (1999). Graduated with highest academic distinction.

    •Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation in Physiotherapy: University of Manitoba (2005). Dean’s Honour List.

    •Acupuncture (2007)

    •Master’s of Science in Rehabilitation: University of Manitoba (2011). Dean’s Honor List.

    •Certified Hand Therapist: Hand Therapy Certification Commission (2013).

  • Krista has been an invited speaker with:

    •University of Manitoba Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Residency Program

    •D’Arcy Bain Physiotherapy Continuing Education Program

    •Manitoba Physiotherapy Association Continuing Education Program

    •Red River College Nursing Program

    •Manitoba College of Family Physicians

    •Pan Am Clinic Foundation

    •College of Family Physicians of Canada

    She has been an active member of the Physiotherapy community including:

    •College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba: Board of Assessors

    •Manitoba Physiotherapy Association: Professional Development, Awards

    •Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators: National Examiner

    •Canadian Society of Hand Therapists: Manitoba Regional Representative

    Due to her strong academic and clinical skills, Krista was awarded a prestigious Physiotherapy clinical placement at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden in 2004. In recognition of her professionalism and mentorship qualities, Krista was the 2012 recipient of the Manitoba Physiotherapy Association Leonore Saunders Award for acting as a role model and inspiration to her colleagues. Her passion for Hand & Upper Extremity Physiotherapy is obvious to colleagues and patients alike. Krista’s favorite conditions to treat include upper extremity fractures, wrist sprains, trigger finger and finger dislocations.

Find Krista on LinkedIn
Leah Bima

Leah Bima

Physiotherapist
Certified Hand Therapist
Acupuncture Provider

Following her years as a competitive volleyball player, Leah knew she wanted to become a Physiotherapist. Having received therapy for shoulder and elbow injuries, Leah experienced first-hand the role that Physiotherapy plays in reducing pain and restoring function. Leah has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advancing her clinical skills throughout her career.

  • •Bachelor of Arts in Physical Activity & Sports Studies: University

    of Winnipeg (2002). Awarded the Gold Medal for highest academic achievement.

    •Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation in Physiotherapy: University of Manitoba (2005)

    •Acupuncture (2006)

    •Certified Hand Therapist: Hand Therapy Certification Commission (2016)

  • Leah has influenced the careers of numerous Physiotherapists:

    •University of Manitoba College of Rehabilitation Sciences: Clinical Instructor in Orthopedics (since 2007)

    •College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba: Mentor to new Physiotherapy graduates (since 2011)

    •Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators: National Examiner

    •Canadian Society of Hand Therapists: Manitoba Regional Representative

    Leah was the 2019 recipient of the Manitoba Physiotherapy Association Leonore Saunders Award for acting as a role model and inspiration to her colleagues. Leah’s professionalism and enthusiasm are unmatched. Her strength lies in her unwavering commitment to the needs of her patients. She has the ability to use her exemplary communication skills to really listen to her patients, set attainable goals and inspire individuals to reach their maximum potential.

    Leah’s favorite conditions to treat include shoulder impingement, rotator cuff repairs, wrist fractures and tendonitis.

Find Leah on LinkedIn

Matthew Thiessen

Physiotherapist
Certified Hand Therapist
Acupuncture Provider

Matthew became interested in Physiotherapy when volunteering in the rehabilitation department at the Health Sciences Centre. He observed how even a seemingly small intervention could make a monumental difference in an individual’s quality of life. Matthew has pursued his career as a Physiotherapist with unwavering enthusiasm.

  • • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology: University of Manitoba (2001). Graduated with honors.

    • Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation in Physiotherapy: University of Manitoba (2005)

    • Acupuncture (2006)

  • Matthew has devoted his career to excelling in clinical care and leadership in Pediatric Physiotherapy:

    • Winnipeg Regional Health Authority Ethics Council (since 2016)
    • Clinical Service Leader for Pediatric Physiotherapists (since 2014)
    • Clinical Advisor for Pediatric Physiotherapists (2009-2014)
    • University of Manitoba College of Rehabilitation Sciences: Clinical Instructor in Orthopedics (since 2007)
    • Sport Physiotherapy Canada Treasurer (2006-2007)

    Matthew has a special interest in working with pediatric patients and is a passionate advocate for Pediatric Hemophilia and Cancer awareness. He cycled across Canada in the Sears National Kids Cancer Ride in 2010 and traveled to India in 2011 and 2012 to educate local Physiotherapists and Physicians regarding orthopedic management and complications of Hemophilia. Matthew’s favorite conditions to treat include hand fractures, tendon repairs and elbow injuries.

Caitlin Andrews

Caitlin Andrews

Physiotherapist
Acupuncture Provider

Caitlin’s passion for Physiotherapy grew over time. Her first exposure came while working as a Physiotherapy aide during her undergraduate degree. Caitlin’s passion for lifelong learning and interest in helping others steered her in the direction of Physiotherapy as a career.

  • • Bachelor of Business Administration: University of Winnipeg (2015)

    • Master of Physical Therapy: University of Manitoba (2020)

    • Selective Functional Movement Assessment (2020)

    • Acupuncture (2022)

    • Currently a Certified Hand Therapist candidate

  • • Completed clinical placements at Morden Physiotherapy, Grace Hospital, Wellness Institute, Brandon Regional Health Centre and Elite Sports Injury
    • Over 6 years of experience as a Physiotherapy Aide
    • Worked as a Research Assistant studying upper extremity functional performance testing
    • Over 7 years of experience as a volunteer assistant athletics coach

    Caitlin has a special interest working with geriatric patients and strives to help her patients maintain and restore functional independence. She is eager to continue to learn from patients and colleagues alike. Caitlin’s favourite conditions to treat include: rotator cuff tendinopathies and wrist fractures.

Keiko Kobayakawa

Physiotherapist
Acupuncture Provider

Keiko is an enthusiastic and dedicated Physiotherapist with a keen interest in hand and upper extremity treatment.  Her interest in physiotherapy developed from working closely with Physiotherapists after sustaining injuries during her competitive basketball career. Keiko was fortunate enough to play university basketball in Japan, Winnipeg (Wesmen), and Halifax (Dalhousie Tigers). Without the help of Physiotherapists she would not have been able to continue her basketball career. Keiko has pursued advanced training in hand therapy and upper extremity rehabilitation and is actively working toward the Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) designation. Her experience and dedication allow her to provide high-quality care for hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder injuries.

  • • Master’s of Physical Therapy. University of Manitoba (2019)

    • Bachelor of Science: Athletic Therapy (in progress) (2015-2016)

    • Bachelor of Arts: Kinesiology. University of Winnipeg (2014)

    • Bachelor of Science: Kinesiology. Dalhousie University (2011-2012). 

    • Acupuncture (2022)

    • Cupping (2025)

    • Advanced Integrative Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy: Level 2 upper and lower extremities (2025, 2023)

    • Currently a Certified Hand Therapist candidate

  • Throughout her career, Keiko has been a highly skilled clinician, combining deep clinical expertise with a passion for helping patients move and feel their best.

    • Keiko brings a broad range of clinical experience, with six years spent working in private practice Physiotherapy.
    • She has refined her communication skills by participating in Toastmasters training since 2016.
    • Even while pursuing her own career goals, Keiko has made time to give back to the community by volunteering at Siloam Mission, Wish Clinic and Misericordia Health Center Rehabilitation Services. 

    With her focused training, growing expertise, and clear dedication to hand therapy, Keiko is well positioned to support patients with upper extremity concerns. Her favourite conditions to treat include: shoulder injuries and fractures. Given Keiko’s strong interest and demonstrated commitment to hand therapy, she is well on track to successfully completing the Certified Hand Therapist recognition process.

Chris Caron

Physiotherapist
Acupuncture and Dry Needling Provider

Chris is a dedicated Physiotherapist with over seven years of experience helping individuals improve mobility, function, and quality of life through evidence-based rehabilitation. His experience in rural healthcare has provided broad clinical exposure across private practice, home care, long-term care, hospital, and school settings. Inspired by his own rehabilitation from sports-related injuries in high school, Chris developed a passion for helping others restore function and improve their well-being through physiotherapy.

He has completed extensive post-graduate training in musculoskeletal physiotherapy, dry needling, and acupuncture. Chris is committed to ongoing professional development and is actively working toward his Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) designation.

  • • Master of Physical Therapy (MPT): University of Manitoba (2018)

    • Certified Gunn Intramuscular Stimulation (CGIMS): University of British Columbia (2025)

    • Advanced Dry Needling Techniques – Level 3 (2025)

    • Advanced MSK Physiotherapy (AIM) Program – Level 1 (2024)

    • Acupuncture Canada Certification in Dry Needling – Levels 1 & 2 (2022)

    • Acupuncture Canada Certification – Level 1 (2022)

    • The Pain Truth Program: Certified Health Care Provider (2024)

    • Currently a Certified Hand Therapist candidate

  • • Over seven years of clinical Physiotherapy experience in rural and community-based practice

    • Extensive experience assessing and treating musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions

    • Skilled in developing evidence-based treatment plans tailored to individual patient goals

    • Experienced working with active disability, workplace injuries, and motor vehicle accident rehabilitation

    • Collaborative experience working within interdisciplinary healthcare teams across multiple care settings

    Chris has a special interest in treating orthopedic and sports-related conditions, particularly shoulder injuries and persistent pain conditions. He is passionate about helping individuals return to meaningful activity and improve confidence in movement. With his clear commitment to professional growth, Chris is on an excellent path toward achieving the Certified Hand Therapist designation.

Dominique Rheaume

Office Manager

As Office Manager, Dominique is an essential member of the EastCity Physiotherapy team. She oversees the administrative operations of the clinic including reception, support staffing, insurance billing and accounting.

  • • Algonquin College: Diploma of College Studies in Nursing Unit Clerk (2022)

    • Algonquin College: Personal Support Worker Certificate (2013)

  • • Developed exceptional communication and teamwork skills through 10+ years as a personal support worker and Healthcare Aide

    • Achieved exceptional administrative and organization skills as a Unit Clerk

    Dominique is fluent in French and English.  Her knowledge, understanding and people skills make her a great fit for our clinic team. She is happy to assist you with all of your questions from where to find our clinic to how our direct insurance billing system works. Dominique’s contributions are integral to clinic operations.

Amandeep (Amy) Kaur

Assistant Clinic Manager / Physiotherapy Aide

Amy plays an integral role at EastCity Physiotherapy, supporting both clients and clinicians to ensure a seamless and welcoming experience. She assists patients at reception, manages clinic inventory and supplies, and provides hands-on support in the treatment area. Her organized approach and strong attention to detail help the clinic operate efficiently each day.

  • • Nurse’s Aide (2026)

    • Good Clinical Practice (GCP) Certification (2026)

    • Bachelor of Science – Biology, University of Winnipeg (2025)

    •Medical Office Assistant (2025)

    •First Aid, CPR & Safe Food Handling (2023)

  • • Built attention to detail and ability to follow clinical procedures accurately through several years in a laboratory environment.

    • Developed superior customer service skills through many years of experience in the retail industry.

    • Gained strong organizational and time-management skills as a Grocery Store Lead Hand.

    Amy combines reliability, efficiency, and a warm, patient-centered approach to keep the clinic running smoothly.

Eniola Tijani

Receptionist / Physiotherapy Aide

Eniola works to ensure that your experience at the clinic is a great one.  She greets patients at reception, assists the Physiotherapists in the treatment area and helps with appointment bookings.

  • •University of Manitoba: currently enrolled as a 3rd year Kinesiology student

  • •Developed superior customer service skills through more than five years of experience in the retail and entertainment industries
    •Gained exemplary organizational and interpersonal skills by working as a family service associate

    Eniola enjoys working in a team atmosphere, and it shows.  Her growth mindset and amiable personality make her an appreciated part of the EastCity Physiotherapy team.

Receptionist / Physiotherapy Aide

Savannah Mowat

Savannah Mowat

Savannah helps to keep the clinic reception and treatment areas running well. From greeting you when you enter, to assisting your Physiotherapist, to helping you book your next appointment, she does it all.

  • • RRC Polytech: currently enrolled as a student completing Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Ultrasound)

  • • Developed excellent customer service skills through many years of experience in the retail industry.

    Savannah is energetic and has a strong work ethic. We are glad to have her as part of our team.

Michelle Kightly

Receptionist / Physiotherapy Aide

Michelle assists with keeping our reception and treatment areas running smoothly. She assists with a variety of tasks to help ensure that all clients have a positive experience at the clinic.

  • • University of Manitoba: currently enrolled as a Kinesiology student

  • • Gained valuable customer service experience while working in a variety of retail establishments.

    • Developed exemplary listening and communication skills through her work as a camp counsellor.

    Working at the clinic aligns nicely with Michelle’s long-term career goal of becoming an Athletic Therapist. We are happy to have her on our team.

Lauryn Smith

Receptionist / Physiotherapy Aide

You will find Lauryn assisting in the treatment area and interacting with patients at the reception desk.  She keeps your experience at the clinic smooth and she strives to leave clients with a positive impression.

 

  • • Level 2 Dental Assisting: St. Clair College (2018)

    • Certificate of Makeup Artistry: MC College (2017)

    • University 1: University of Manitoba (2017)

  • • Developed superior customer service skills through several years of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industries

    • Gained knowledge in confidentiality, clinical procedures and patient communication through her training as a Dental Assistant

    Lauryn’s attention to detail and exceptional communication skills make her an appreciated member of the EastCity Physiotherapy team.

Setting the standard for Physiotherapy management of Hand & Upper Extremity Conditions.