A physiotherapist assessing a patient's lower back for pain

Lower Back Pain Physiotherapy in Downtown Vancouver

At Forza Physiotherapy in downtown Vancouver, you spend every minute of your session with your physiotherapist working through a structured plan for your lower back pain. We start with a thorough 1:1 assessment and objective Vald performance testing, then build an active rehab plan around your goals. Recovery is measurable, progressive, and built on strength.

Lower Back Pain That Keeps Coming Back

Lower back pain that lingers for weeks, recurs after months, or worsens with activity is one of the most common reasons people book physiotherapy in Vancouver. You have probably already tried rest, stretching, and maybe a previous round of physio that left you with a printed sheet of exercises. Now the pain is starting to affect your sleep, your sport, and your patience.

Stiffness

Stiffness when getting out of bed or standing up from a desk

Pain flares

Pain that flares with lifting, twisting, or after a long day

Discomfort

Discomfort that is starting to affect your training, sport, or work

How Forza Treats Lower Back Pain Differently

Three things change recovery outcomes for lower back pain:
-> a thorough 1:1 assessment,
-> objective measurement,
-> active rehab in a real gym.

A physiotherapist assessing a patient's squat for lower back pain

 "I've had an amazing experience with Marcel! I have been working with him remotely to address lower back discomfort and strength training. We meet regularly where he builds programs for me and then reviews videos on technique. He has gone above and beyond for me giving feedback throughout. The programs are tailored to what works for me. I've made great gains in strength, have no more back pain and have enjoyed the process throughout."

5.0 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - Alex M.

Your Path to Pain-Free Movement

Schedule Your Assessment

Book a comprehensive one-on-one evaluation at our downtown Vancouver clinic. We'll assess your condition using advanced technology and create a clear treatment plan.

Start Your Personalized Program

Receive hands-on treatment combined with therapeutic exercises tailored to your goals, schedule, and lifestyle as a downtown professional or athlete.

Return to Your Active Life

Move confidently through recovery milestones and get back to work, sports, and activities stronger than before with ongoing support from our team.

Why Forza for Lower Back Pain

What sets our clinic apart is the combination of clinical depth and performance tools. Vald performance testing gives objective baselines and retests, so progress is measurable. Direct billing to most extended health benefit plans is processed through Jane App.

Physical therapist assisting a patient with a knee stretch in a Vancouver physiotherapy clinic.

What Our Vancouver Patients Say

I've been seeing Justin for physiotherapy, and I can't recommend him highly enough! From the very first session, he was attentive, professional, and took the time to understand my concerns. His expertise and personalized approach have made a world of difference in my recovery. Justin explains everything clearly and provides helpful exercises to do at home, which has accelerated my progress. I'm feeling stronger and more mobile with every visit. If you're looking for a knowledgeable and caring physiotherapist, Justin is the one to see!
Shane Howard
Marcel is amazing! Having worked with him for the past few years I really have always felt his dedication to his clients which comes through in his passion for evidence-based practice. Marcel has worked with me through a range of injuries, building confidence when returning to sport, and supporting me through post-op rehabilitation. I would strongly recommend the Forza team!
Alexa
Super knowledgeable RMTs and Physio practitioners! Would recommend to anyone with back or neck pain!
Wesley L
I booked in with Justin at Forza physiotherapy and I am more than happy with my experience! After sustaining a meniscus tear to my left knee while playing soccer, I was able to get an immediate plan to rehab my injury and get me back into playing sports! Using a mix of newer physio technology, and exercises that are designed to get you back into playing your sport confidently, Justin is a great physio with a sports background for any athlete who is dealing with an injury. I would highly recommend.
Quinn Dawson
Great Team and great services!!! I am very happy with massage therapy provided by Dan Cardoso and Physiotherapy provided by Marcel Wallace. Highly recommend!
Alexander Gogolev
Justin helped me through a lower back injury that had left me pretty hobbled for a few weeks. I appreciated his emphasis on movement and exercises between appointments. After two visits, I saw significant improvement. Next time, I won't wait so long to call Forza!
K Scan
Great experience with Justin Mazzei. Injured my groin at soccer and he got me fit again quickly in 2 weeks heading to national championships.
Navid Samiei
I have been recovering from a shoulder injury as an Olympic weightlifter, working with my physio Justin made all the difference. He developed a targeted rehab plan for my shoulder, and made sure I could get back to lifting safely. I really benefited from the dry needling, which helped release tension and pain and allowed me to lift. Justin also gave exercises that improved my shoulder movement, which has made a huge difference in my lifts. I'm back to training harder than ever, and I’d highly recommend this approach to any lifter with a shoulder injury or anything else!
aiko Erin
Great first session with Marcel! Knowledgeable, informative and professional.
Cyrus Li
I was visiting Vancouver with feet and back pain from nearly 6 weeks of traveling, and saw Justin just as I was starting to panic about managing the flight home. He was professional, suggested stretches and activities that actively eased my pain and made me feel confident to travel home. Even gave me a resistance band to take with me. Absolutely recommend this service.
Nikki Gee
I’ve seen Sherine Bishrawi several times for RMT work related to hip issues, and she has been fantastic. Sherine is very interested in learning about and helping with the problem. She is knowledgeable, and I’ve noticed significant improvement. Highly recommend.
Jeremy Gellis
Having just come out of another RMT session with Sherine, I cannot stress just quite how fantastic she is. I was recommended Sherine by a teammate and she worked on my injury with the utmost professionalism. No kidding, after 2 sessions my shoulder had never felt better.
Sam G
Justin is simply amazing! I've been seeing him for 5+ years now. His attention to detail, care, and knowledge are second to none. Highly advise anyone seeking treatment to book an appointment with him!
Christopher Trotzuk
Went to Forza with some knee issues and Marcel was very attentive and thorough with trying to identify the issue and providing helpful exercises! Would definitely come back!
Ge Li
As a long-distance runner, I’ve dealt with my fair share of soft tissue injuries, but with the help of Justin (who I have worked with for years now) and the team at Forza, they’ve gotten me back on track quickly. Whether it was a strained calf or tight IT band, they’ve always provided targeted treatments that got me back to running faster than expected. The physiotherapists are highly skilled, knowledgeable, and take the time to tailor a rehab plan for my specific needs. I truly appreciate their dedication to keeping me injury-free and performing at my best. Highly recommend!
Harrison Sali
After a hectic month hunched over my desk, I was left resembling a fossilized shrimp in business casual. I booked an RMT session with Sherine - she was punctual, incredibly thorough, and didn’t even flinch at the tragic state of my posture. The session restored my range of motion in my upper back and left me feeling rejuvenated. I’ll definitely be booking with Sherine again - my spine insists!
J K
Marcel is the king. I've unfortunately have had a lot of injuries in my life but no one has been assist in the way Marcel. Pushing me way past my hopes and targets.
Matt Davis
Great location, excellent staff. I followed Justin to Forza Physiotherapy. He is an excellent physiotherapist and a wiz with the IMS needles.
Erin Postlethwaite
I worked closely with Marcel in the first 5 weeks of my rehab protocol after receiving stem cell on my low back and shoulder. As a former national team athlete, you come to understand that there is a major difference between practitioners and healers. Marcel is definitely a healer and I would recommend him to anyone on their journey from 0-100.
Bethany M
Forza is one of the best physios I have been to. I went and saw Justin for a knee injury which I had already been told what it was by other doctors. Justin did a full assessment and was able to tell me the original diagnosis was wrong and helped me strengthen my knee and get me back running after months of on going pain. Highly recommend
Kaia Monaghan
Had a fabulous massage with Sherine! She knew exactly what muscle groups to work on after I explained my issues and she was really knowledgeable and lovely. I will definitely be going back!
Emma Luker
Huge shoutout to Forza Physiotherapy and Justin! I’ve known Justin for a long time — he actually used to be my coach — so I already knew I was in good hands. I came in with a hamstring injury right before nationals and thought I might have to miss it, but Justin got me back on the field in no time. He really knows his stuff and made the whole process super easy and motivating. Thanks to him, I was able to play at nationals feeling strong and pain-free. Couldn’t recommend Forza and Justin more! ⚽💪
Lucas Mcilveen
I began working with Forza through Marcel to support my Olympic weightlifting training. I experienced two minor injuries this year, and each time I was able reach out to Marcel and see him very quickly. He provided a lot of reassurance, a solid plan to return to training, and coordination with my coach.
Hilary D
As a soccer player recovering from a hamstring tendon injury, working with Marcel and Justin made all the difference. From the start, they took the time to assess my movement patterns and tailor a rehab plan specific to my needs on the field. The focus was on gradually rebuilding strength, improving flexibility, and getting my sprinting mechanics back to normal. The exercises were always adjusted based on how my hamstring responded, so I never pushed too hard. Thanks to this approach, I’m feeling stronger, faster, and back to playing at a high level. Highly recommend for any athlete recovering from this type of injury!
Mario Marra
My experience with Forza Physiotherapy has been phenomenal. The entire team, from the RMTs to the physios (I have seen Justin, Marcel, and Sherine), have a methodical approach to your injuries and MSK ailments and listens to all your concerns deeply. The physios also the VALD force plate system, which was really cool to see data that reflects your strengths and weaknesses. As a fitness enthusiast, I thought it was really nice to see numbers to prove where I was lacking in my performance. Thank you Forza!
Rachel Cho
Forza physio has helped me with my shoulder pain and also nerve pain in my arm/wrist. The therapists plan exercises with you so that they’re practical and feasible to your lifestyle and activity level. Very kind and professional, highly recommend!
Jessie Yip
Their RMT Sherine is a gem! She holds both breadth and depth in human body form and function, she is a wealth of knowledge! Highly recommended her for sports specific body soreness, and maintenance. I love that I can ask her a question about a specific muscle group and she is readily able to explain it to me in a way that I can understand, which is important to me as someone with learning disabilities. Highly recommend her!!!
Eric Buelow
Run, don’t walk! I’ve had the pleasure of working with Marcel, Sherine, and Daniel who are invested in you until you see the end results that you want to see. Nothing is cookie cutter and all programs are designed to fit your needs and current ability during your recovery. Their procedural approach to recovery using benchmarks and metrics is wonderful. From my knee, shoulder, to wrists I’ve had personal success in every area we tackled as a team.
Carson
Working with Marcel has been an incredibly positive experience. It’s the first time in a long time I’ve felt optimistic about achieving my fitness and recovery goals. He provides a safe and comfortable environment and I can’t express how much appreciative I am for that.
VegaN CalleD QuesT
Marcel was great in building a rehabilitation plan following a heel fracture. Lots of exercices and tests to bring my ankle and calf back to normal while being very intentive of my return to sport goals over the last 5 months!
Julien Brunet
After struggling with chronic sciatica and back pain from workout-related injuries, I sought practitioners who had a solid background and were themselves active in weight training. Marcel(Physio) and Sherine(RMT) provided a clear road map for me. They were very attentive and thorough with their methods. The clinic's location is a great benefit, as they use the on-site gym equipment to guide clients through specific movements. Highly recommend.
Roman E
I've been going to Forza Physiotherapy for treatment on my knee, and my experience with Marcel has been great so far. He's very professional, knowledgeable and genuinely kind. My treatment is still ongoing, but I've already noticed a big improvement and feel much confident in my recovery which I wasn't expecting to happen so fast. I would highly recommend Forza and Marcel to anyone looking for quality physiotherapy care!
Aurora Turra
Our Team

The Team That Gets Your Lower Back Stronger

Marcel Wallace (He/Him/His)
Registered Physiotherapist, MScPT

Marcel brings expertise from the UK and a passion for strength training to his practice. Specializing in post-operative recovery and low back pain, he combines his skills as an Olympic weightlifter with hands-on treatment to help clients achieve meaningful results. Communication is at the heart of his approach—every client receives a tailored treatment plan and direct access
throughout their recovery.

Justin Mazzei (He/Him/His)
Registered Physiotherapist

Growing up immersed in sport, Justin turned his passion into expertise. With training from Australia's University of Queensland, he specializes in post-operative recovery and bridging the gap between injury management and Return to Sport. His philosophy: "The recipe for success is strong communication, education, and individualized exercise prescription." Perfect for motivated athletes and active individuals.

Teala McEwan (She/Her/Hers)
Physiotherapist

Hailing from Canada, and trainined in the UK, Teala enjoys helping those from all walks of life; from weekend warriors to every day people looking to move and feel better. She is committed to patient-centred care, and takes a collaborative and holistic approach to treatment. She is passionate about helping people regain their confidence, and eager to get them back to the activities they love.

Jordan Huhta (He/Him/His)
Physiotherapist

Known at Forza as "The Ortho Guy" Jordan completed his undergraduate degree at UBC and his physiotherapy training in the UK, before returning to Vancouver to specialize in acute orthopaedic injuries.

He has significant experience working with athletic, joint replacement, traumatic orthopaedic injuries and oncology related orthopaedic surgeries. Since 2022, he has served as the Clinical Regional Specialist Physiotherapist for the Major Trauma & Orthopaedics team at Vancouver General Hospital and has also worked with UBC Varsity Athletics, the Vancouver Whitecaps, and Canada Soccer.

Bradon Budgell (He/Him/His)
Registered Massage Therapist

After a lifetime of playing sports and Personal Training, Bradon graduated to become an RMT (Registered Massage Therapist). Dealing with severe injuries as a teenager, the rehab process was a huge part of being able to continue doing what he loved (Hockey/Baseball/Training).

Taking an active approach while also focusing on relaxation, Bradon uses many techniques to help people achieve whatever goals they may have. Outside of Personal Training and Massage Therapy, you will find Bradon training to lift heavy and jump high. Outside of Personal Training and Massage Therapy, you will find Bradon training to lift heavy and jump high. He also will talk your ear off about his bulldogs and the amazing coffee shops/food places in the city.

Techniques: Swedish Massage, Trigger Point, Active/Passive Engagement, Pin & Stretch, Myofascial Release, Deep Tissue, Joint Mobilization, Corrective Exercise.

Christina McDonald (She/Her/Hers)
Registered Massage Therapist

Christina brings her passion for wellness and human connection to her practice. Her philosophy is that every treatment is a conversation, even if nothing is said.

Her career in massage therapy follows a 14 year long career as a bartender/mixologist, a dive into the world of acting and production and even a couple years as a dance teacher. Her love of people has guided her in every chapter of her life. She graduated from the Alberta College of Massage Therapy with Honours.

Her special interests are treating those with chronic pain, sports injuries, and burnout. Christina is also a person who lives with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a hypermobility disorder, giving her an inside perspective to managing chronic pain. Outside of the clinic you can find her in a spin class, at the gym, walking the seawall or scouring Costco for a good find.

Maria Fernanda Leis (She/Her/Hers)
Registered Dietitian

Maria Fernanda Leis is a Registered Dietitian (College of Dietitians of BC) with over 20 years of international clinical expertise. She specializes in conducting comprehensive nutrition assessments and developing specialized care plans, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient health outcomes.

As a certified ISAK Level 2 Anthropometrist, she specializes in estimating body composition to set precise, data-driven nutritional goals and monitor physical progress.

Visit Our Downtown Vancouver Clinic

Conveniently located in The Post building, we're easily accessible from Yaletown, Gastown, Coal Harbour, and the downtown core. Just minutes from the Waterfront SkyTrain station.
Email:contact@forzaphysiotherapy.com
Phone:604-359-2919
Office:658 Homer St, Suite 410 Vancouver, BC V6B 0T5

Three people jogging on a paved road in a rural area with mountains in the background during daytime.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does physiotherapy for lower back pain take?

Most lower back pain responds to physiotherapy within 4 to 8 sessions, though chronic or post-surgical cases may take longer. At Forza Physiotherapy, your initial assessment establishes a clear recovery timeline based on your specific diagnosis, Vald baseline data, and goals. Acute strains often improve in 2 to 4 weeks, while recurrent or complex cases follow a 6 to 12-week progressive plan.

Is physiotherapy effective for chronic lower back pain?

Yes. Research consistently supports active, exercise-based physiotherapy as one of the most effective treatments for chronic lower back pain. Around 90% of musculoskeletal conditions, including chronic back pain, have a positive recovery trajectory when paired with progressive loading, education, and consistent rehab. Forza's approach combines 1:1 sessions with objective Vald testing so you can measure your recovery in numbers.

Can I exercise with lower back pain?

In most cases, yes, and exercise is often part of the recovery itself. The right kind of movement loads your spine progressively and reduces pain over time. Your physiotherapist at Forza will identify which movements help, which to modify, and which to avoid temporarily. The goal is to build strength and capacity in your back so it can handle the demands of your life.

Still have questions?

Contact our team for personalized answers 
about your specific needs.