Our Team

Lauren Martens

Training & Qualifications

Lauren Martens holds a Master of Physical Therapy and a Bachelor of Kinesiology from the University of Manitoba. She is registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba.

Lauren Martens’ Approach

Lauren’s approach to physiotherapy is patient-centered and goal oriented. That means when it comes to patients’ recovery and physical performance, she cares about what her patients care about.

"I focus on helping my patients get back to their day-to-day life," says Lauren, "and back to the activities they loved doing before they were injured."

Unique Service Offerings

Lauren played varsity-level soccer while at the University of Manitoba, and has a unique understanding of the performance demands facing high-level athletes. She can customize athletes’ rehabilitation plans and training plans to get them back to performance as quickly as possible.

More About Lauren Martens

Tell us the story of why you became a physiotherapist.

"As an athlete, I’ve overcome many injuries that kept me off the soccer field. As a physiotherapist, I’ve learned techniques and skills to keep patients doing what they love, without being limited by injury or pain.

"I'm passionate about promoting the benefits of physical activity for overall health, preventing and managing injuries, and improving people’s quality of life. That’s what physiotherapists do, and why I chose this profession."

What do you like about being a physiotherapist?

"Getting patients to the point where their injury and pain no longer stop them from doing what they enjoy.

"I love it when my patients tell me 'I hadn't played hockey for months, but now I can now play an entire hockey game without any pain.'  Or 'I used to not be able to bend down to play with my grandkids, but now I can easily get up and down off the floor to play with them.'"

What do you like best about working at River East Physiotherapy?

"The equipment - River East Physiotherapy has a terrific array of professional treatment equipment that helps me provide great care to my patients."

What are some compliments you’ve received from patients?

"I’ve been told I’m a good listener, easy to talk to, and compassionate."

What’s something you’re proud of?

"To have played with the University of Manitoba Bison’s soccer team for five years while completing my undergrad degree."

What’s your favorite thing to do at work?

"Learning from the other physiotherapists. We often teach each other new assessment and treatment techniques."

Is there a clinical area you’re particularly interested in?

"Yes. I’m super interested in treating knee injuries, specifically ACL and meniscus injuries.

"I’m also interested in manual therapy – that means all the hands-on techniques we use as physiotherapists, from joint mobilizations to assisted stretching to manual muscle release."

What do you like to do in your spare time?

"Playing soccer. Soccer’s been my favorite pastime since I began playing at the youth level. I still play competitively, and most recently represented Manitoba at the National Women’s championship in Halifax, Nova Scotia on the women’s team."

"I also love reading outdoors to enjoy the beautiful Winnipeg summers, hiking and traveling. I recently went to London, England, and sparked my interest in travelling to other European countries.  I want to experience the culture and food in each country, and I hope to travel to Italy or Greece next."

What’s something that few people know about you?

"I’m a big hockey fan, and specifically a Winnipeg Jets fan.

"Before pursuing high-level soccer, I played many other sports including volleyball, basketball, badminton, dance, and track and field."

Someone who knows you well would describe you as…

"A hard worker, and very passionate about physiotherapy and exercise."

What do you love about our neighbourhood?

"I have lived in Winnipeg, and specifically North Kildonan for my entire life. I love our walking and running trails for walking my dog, and all the friendly people in North Kildonan."

About "Exam Candidate" Physiotherapists / Intern Physiotherapists

An "Exam Candidate" Physiotherapist is the current title for physiotherapists practicing under supervision in Manitoba, registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba.

This title is a misnomer, since these physiotherapists have successfully completed all their academic and licensing exams. They hold at least one university degree in physiotherapy, and have extensive experience in patient care. Upcoming regulatory changes in 2025 are expected change this title to "Intern Physiotherapist."

Exam Candidates / Intern Physiotherapists practice under the supervision of a senior physiotherapist, to ensure a high quality of patient care.

All physiotherapists entering practice in Canada, be it from a Canadian university or from another country, are required to complete a minimum of six months under a Supervised Practice program in Manitoba.

Read more about registration categories for physiotherapists here, on the website of the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba.

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