Ross McKinnon | Leading Edge Physiotherapy Alberta | B.C. Physical Therapy

from telemark trails to treatment tables—Ross brings movement to life

training

  • Physiotherapist
  • Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation (Physiotherapy) University of Manitoba -1995
  • Canadian Physiotherapy Association Orthopedic Division CPA Level 5 – 2003
  • Fellow Canadian Academy of Manual and Manipulative Therapy (FCAMPT)- 2005
  • Gunn IMS Certification, Institute for the Study and Treatment of Pain 2009
  • Jim Meadows Spinal Manipulation Certification – 2012
  • ConnectTherapy  Series Graduate – 2021/2022

personality

Ross’s journey into physiotherapy began with a simple but powerful motivation: helping people heal. Drawn to the idea of restoring mobility, reducing pain, and guiding clients back to the activities they love, Ross found his calling in a profession that blends science, movement, and human connection. Growing up in Winnipeg, he competed in flatwater canoeing and nordic skiing—sports that sparked a lifelong passion for physical performance and biomechanics. A chance encounter with a mentor in physiotherapy school set him on his path, and three decades later, Ross is still driven by curiosity and compassion. He’s a self-proclaimed physio “nerd,” constantly refining his hands-on approach and staying current with the latest rehabilitation research. What sets him apart is his detective-like mindset—digging deep to uncover the root causes of pain and crafting personalized treatment plans that work. Outside the clinic, Ross is immersed in the outdoors, whether he’s nordic skiing, trail running, biking, or hiking. His commitment to community runs just as deep: he’s the longest-standing volunteer coach at the Telemark Nordic Ski Club and serves as the physiotherapist for the BC provincial ski team. For Ross, learning never stops—and neither does his drive to help others move better, feel better, and live fully.

  • Favorite books –  Coming through Slaughter – Michael Ondatjee (he read it in University)
  • Favorite Music – Alternative Rock
  • Movies he/she loves – Indiana Jones,
  • Favorite sports/activities – Nordic Skiing, Trail Running, Biking (mtn, gravel and road), hiking
  • Clinical Pet Peeve – Trying to find stuff that isn’t where it’s supposed to be.
  • Something you may not know about him/her – He’s never caught a fish
  • Favorite sitcom growing up? Happy Days (now that’s certainly showing his generation)
  • First Car? 1993 Honda Civic hatchback (practical of course)
  • Community connections – Telemark Racing Team volunteer coach

edge

Ross graduated from the University of Manitoba’s Class of 1995 with a Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation in Physiotherapy.  Ross then moved with his wife to Georgia, USA where he honed his skills at a renowned clinic specializing in the treatment of professional athletes, including PGA golfers. During his time in Georgia, Ross developed a particular expertise in spinal rehabilitation, laying the groundwork for his future specialization.

In 2000, Ross returned to Canada and joined Rutland Physical Therapy, where he continued to refine his skills and further his education. His dedication and commitment to the field of physiotherapy culminated in 2005 when he earned a Post-Graduate Diploma of Manual and Manipulative Therapy from the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.   This diploma allows a physiotherapist to use the title Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manual and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists (FCAMPT).  This achievement marked a significant milestone in Ross’ career and solidified his reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable manual physiotherapist.

Ross founded the Kelowna Manual Therapy Centre with a partner in the fall of 2006. During his time at the clinic, Ross continued to expand his skillset and expertise, completing a certification in Gunn Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) under the tutelage of Dr. Chan Gunn in Vancouver. His pursuit of knowledge and commitment to staying at the forefront of physiotherapy advancements led him to further certifications, including a Certification in Manual Therapy with Jim Meadows, a founding father of the Canadian Manual Therapy System, and a Functional Movement Screen Certification.

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