Common Injuries for Nurses & Health Care Aides on Vancouver Island: Relief & Prevention at Pursuit Physiotherapy
Nurses and health care aides on Vancouver Island—whether working for the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA/Island Health), long-term care facilities, or home care agencies—face physically demanding roles. From patient lifts at Victoria General Hospital to long shifts in community care, these challenges often lead to injuries that sideline frontline workers. At Pursuit Physiotherapy, located in Victoria’s Hillside neighbourhood, we specialize in treating and preventing workplace injuries, helping VIHA staff and health care aides stay strong for their patients.
Top Injuries in VIHA Nurses & Health Care Aides
Lower Back Strain
Why it happens: Repetitive patient transfers, bending over beds, pushing wheelchairs or lifting without proper equipment.
Our approach: Manual therapy and spinal manipulation for short-term pain relief + back and core strengthening exercises tailored for healthcare tasks.
Rotator Cuff Tears (Shoulder Pain)
Why it happens: Overhead reaching (e.g., adjusting IV lines) or supporting patients during transfers.
Our approach: Manaul therapy (including dry needling), rotator cuff, general shoulder and upper back exercises to build resiliency and strength in the shoulders during shifts.
Knee Pain
Why it happens: Constant walking on hard hospital floors, on your feet for 12-hour shifts, squatting, or pivoting during patient care.
Our approach: Strengthening plans for quads/hips + custom orthotics to reduce the shock of concrete floors if warranted.
Neck & Upper Back Tension
Why it happens: Prolonged computer charting, stress, or awkward postures during care.
Our approach: Chiropractic adjustments + stretch breaks tailored for healthcare workers.
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Why VIHA Staff & Health Care Aides Choose Pursuit
Local Expertise for Island Health Workers:
We’ve treated nurses from Royal Jubilee Hospital, health care aides from Victoria General Hospital, VIHA community care members and everything in between.
As health care workers ourselves, we understand the demands of your jobs and how to provide long term solutions
Flexible Care for Busy Schedules:
Extended hours (Mon-Thu until 8 PM) to fit post-shift appointments as well as weekend availability.
Direct billing to insurers like Pacific Blue Cross, Sun Life, and more.
Workplace Injury Solutions:
WorksafeBC claims are supported for job-related injuries.
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3 Injury Prevention Tips for VIHA Workers
Use Lift Equipment Always:
Never skip asking a colleague for help on transfer, slide sheets, or mechanical lifts—even for “quick” transfers.
Micro-Breaks Matter:
Every 30 minutes, stretch your neck, shoulders, and wrists (try seated chin tucks or wrist circles).
Strengthen Your Posterior Chain:
Deadlifts, planks, and rows build resilience for repetitive tasks.
Your Health Is Your Greatest Asset
📍 Find Us: Andrew Sheret Building, 740 Hillside Ave (near Long & McQuade), Victoria.
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 8 AM–8 PM | Fri 8 AM–4 PM