About - Physio for Surgery

Voted The Diamond Award Best Physiotherapy Clinic and Massage Therapy Clinic by Economist & Sun

About Physio For Surgery

“We Make Fast Recovery And Pro-Level Performance After Surgery Possible For Every Body – Sometimes Preventing Surgery Altogether. So, You Can Stop Worrying And Focus On A Fit And Healthy Future”

Click Play to Hear From Some of Our Happy Clients of Physio For Surgery

CLICK TO PLAY

CLICK TO PLAY

Do you ever wonder how athletes and sports players get back in the game so quickly after serious injury, a major accident, or radical surgery?

  • Connor Mcdavid had torn Ligaments, cracked bones and damaged cartilage and lead the NHL when he scored 105 points in 56 games the following season.
  • Andre de Grasse famously overcame Achilles' surgery and a torn hamstring to get back on the track and become a Canadian record-breaker.
  • Serena Williams was back slamming balls at the French Open eight months after giving birth to her daughter by emergency c-section.
  • And Mark McMorris went from collapsed lung, ruptured spleen, and “shattered” pelvis in a snowboarding accident to coming home with an Olympic Medal from the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics.

How is that possible? Some of these athletes seem even stronger and can run faster than they did before after serious collisions, major surgeries, and devastating injuries. What’s their secret?”

We hate to break it to you. They’ve got grit. But they’re not superhuman. Their surgeons and first responders play a pivotal role. Of course, we'd be lying if we said being in peak physical fitness didn't help too. But the magic behind their recovery and lightspeed return to form is what happens in rehab.

In athletic therapy circles, however, it's not magic. We know that the speed of their recovery and post-surgery fitness comes down to two things; The knowledge and skill of their physiotherapist and access to cutting-edge tech and physiotherapy equipment. It’s that simple.

At Physio For Surgery, we make pro-level treatment accessible to you, so you can achieve all of your goals safer and sooner. So you can get back on your bike, play tennis with your girlfriends or just beat your buddy at Golf again after surgery (or without surgery at all).

You don't even have to be a famous sports star or Olympic athlete.

Anything is possible with the right team behind you.


Founded by Nick Halkidis

Nicholas Halkidis

21st Century Rehab Specialist: Athletic Therapist, Registered Massage Therapist and Certified Medical Acupuncturist.

Nick Halkidis: Builds Bodies Back Better

Nick’s interest in the human body piqued when he took an exercise physiology course as an aspiring young athlete in the twelfth grade. But at that age, Nick’s heart was set on becoming a professional Hockey player – his talent a fitting match for his big ambitions. But fate had other ideas, and he was “stretchered off” that path when injuries derailed him from a promising career as a hockey pro.

At this point, he was nothing more than a “hoser” (or so he believed) – with his long-held aspirations for professional sport in the trash.

But during those dark early days of accepting that life wasn't going to pan out as he planned, Nick flipped adversity on its head and turned it into an opportunity. He channelled his anger and disappointment into a personal quest. His mission was to learn about the human body - how and why things go wrong and what to do about it when they do.

At this point, he was hell-bent on making sure no one's dreams of becoming a professional athlete ended from injuries as his did.

- He studied Kinesiology & Athletic Therapy on the #1 Kinesiology Program in Canada, at York University – finishing top of his class and winning "Student Athletic Therapist of The Year." 

- He attained a degree in Massage Therapy at the Royal Canadian College of Massage Therapy and gained his official license to work with patients that same summer. 

But Nick didn’t stop there. He went on to study acupuncture on the prestigious McMaster Contemporary Medical Acupuncture Program. Before working as an Athletic Therapist specializing in Chronic Pain in Newmarket. Currently, Nick is working with Team Canada Junior National Baseball Team. He was also lucky enough to spend time working with the "Hamilton Tiger-Cats" and five years working for a Sports Medicine Clinic in Markham before deciding on a full-time career in private practice.

Hello, Physio For Surgery.

Nick opened Physio For Surgery to take cutting-edge technology off the sports field and make it accessible to health-conscious Canadians in the GTA. Patients who want superior results from pre-planned surgeries and get back on their feet (and back to their lives) faster.


Why Choose Us?

Everything Nick and the team does is evidence-based. From the Anti-gravity treadmill and the Game Ready Met4 Elite to Blood Flow Restriction. It’s all scientifically proven to enable superhuman-style recovery for the average Canadian - so you can recover as fast as the pros.

Nick LOVES Helping People.

He listens. He explains what's going on in a down-to-earth manner – answering all your questions without unnecessary jargon or BS.
You can lean on him and the team at Physio For Surgery and trust us to get you the best possible results.

Plus, there's free WIFI, coffee and great chat free with every appointment. I mean, it's hard to get Nick to shut up about physiotherapy, optimal health, and the latest tech once he starts, eh?
But you won't find a more up-to-date and passionate Athletic Therapist anywhere in Canada. That’s for sure.

If you would like to know how the physiotherapy team at PHYSIO FOR SURGERY can help you prevent surgery or recover faster when you do, we recommend take advantage of our special offer and book a completely free taster appointment at our Markham clinic.

Note: We offer this Free Discovery Session to people who are worried about surgery and not sure whether physiotherapy is right for them. So, if that sounds like you, please book a free appointment. We will put your mind at ease and explain how physiotherapy helps both before and after surgery and how it sometimes prevents the need for surgery altogether.

We Help You:

  • Find Out What’s Wrongusually within 20 minutes, even if you’ve been in pain for months, years or even decades.
  • Reduce painwe can help reduce your pain levels from the very first session. You don’t have to put up with it.
  • Prevent surgery (if possible)In many cases, we can help you avoid surgery altogether by correcting the problem and reducing your pain.
  • Prepare For surgeryby strengthening your body: bones and muscles, increasing blood flow and improving your capacity for healing.
  • Recover Faster After Surgeryusing high-tech equipment and more effective hands-on physiotherapy and therapeutic exercise.

If you want to know what it costs - and what availability we have at our physiotherapy clinic in MARKHAM, please click the button below and complete the short form:


“Here Are 3 People We’ve Helped Recently

Please enjoy these reviews of other people just like you who came to see the Physiotherapy Team at Physio For Surgery - and left much healthier and happier within just a couple of weeks:

Brandon is a fantastic physiotherapist! Very knowledgeable and great at explaining the underlying cause of my injury. His treatments were very effective, and he cleared my foot pain only after a few visits. Thank you Brandon! I'll be back for the next injury.
Jessica
Jessica
02:32 26 Mar 24
The day of my knee injury I could barely stand up on my own. I was able to come here the same day. Everyone at the clinic has been so friendly and helpful. Brandon has been great. He was able to help me get walking with the use of crutches on the first appointment. I know my injury may take time to heal. Brandon has helped me regain my independence as I continue to recover from my injury.
Jillian Chang
Jillian Chang
14:01 14 Feb 24
I attended Physio For Surgery to rehab my grade 2 MCL tear. Nick and his team were awesome in aiding my recovery. Extremely friendly and profession. I was able to get back to sports in a few short weeks. Highly recommend Physio For Surgery for any athletic therapy or physiotherapy.
Anth Luch
Anth Luch
13:46 13 Feb 24
Fantastic service by knowledgeable, professional staff. Nick himself has extensive experience with many national team athletes, and is able to quickly diagnose and fix problems through another body area inexperienced people wouldn't think of connecting. Alex is also fantastic, professional, and dedicated, always providing consistently high service
Mark Huang
Mark Huang
19:50 08 Feb 24
I had a great experience in this Clinic after my knee surgery. Nick, Brandon and Alexi has been awesome. Thank you everyone !
Jawed Afandi
Jawed Afandi
18:56 08 Feb 24
Josephine Karpouzis
Josephine Karpouzis
02:50 31 Jan 24
Wonderful experience!A warm welcoming when you enter, followed by exceptional service from the staff. I highly recommend this place, that’s why we keep coming back! Keep up the amazing work❤️
Christina Thomaidis
Christina Thomaidis
13:04 30 Jan 24
Nick and his team are by far the most professional therapists I have ever delt with from fixing minor problems to extreme problems they are the go to people
brad gay
brad gay
15:29 25 Jan 24
Morgan Petrov
Morgan Petrov
01:01 24 Jan 24
My treatment experience with Physio for Surgery has been very efficient and effective. The booking and follow-up by Alexis is top-notch and very personable. Nick is punctual, very decisive and clear with his diagnosis. His treatments have been very effective for my elbow and knee issues and his treatment equipment looks state-of-the art. Thanks team!
John Wieser
John Wieser
00:39 24 Jan 24
I enjoy my visits with Branden. Very professional and helpful which added to my speed y recovery. Thank you
Rose Tunzi
Rose Tunzi
20:24 23 Jan 24
Excellent service, very knowledgeable and friendly staff
Andrea Vance
Andrea Vance
19:35 23 Jan 24
After tearing my ACL and MCL, I thought my athletic career was over. I had a surgeon even tell me that I was no longer able to play. However, Nick referred me to a surgeon he trusts and created a rehab plan to return to sport. Nick worked with me nearly every day for a month to rehab and strengthen my leg. The staff is incredibly nice and helpful, it truly feels like a family there. The machines that were used on me, the rehab methods, and overall experience were just amazing. I am happy to say I have returned to play. Nick made that possible after I was told no and I am forever grateful! It is like my injury never happened. He fitted me for a brace and it came within a week after other places told me it would take a month. He is incredibly professional and welcoming and I cannot thank him enough!
Natasha Athanasakos
Natasha Athanasakos
17:50 23 Jan 24
Great experience coming here for physio. Brandon helped me with my shoulder injury. Also currently supporting my son with his leg. Would recommend.
Bo Chen
Bo Chen
16:21 23 Jan 24
Ramanan Kandiah
Ramanan Kandiah
15:45 23 Jan 24
Nick and his team are amazing, alwsys goimg the extra miles to ensure care are the top level.
Jenny Gibson
Jenny Gibson
13:39 23 Jan 24
Huge thanks to Brandon for treating my shoulder injury!! His professionalism and personalized treatment plan significantly helped my recovery. I’m excited to be playing sports again!
Eirwen
Eirwen
22:06 17 Jan 24
went to Alex Chan with a sore glute and upper leg.He was very friendly and helpful and knowledgeable.He also has the latest specialized equipment, very impressive.I will go back to him if I have any other aches and pains.HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!
Norm
Norm
21:52 17 Jan 24
Great place make you feel good fast, knowledgable and friendly staff.
Angelo Taccone
Angelo Taccone
17:06 17 Jan 24
Nick and his staff are amazing. They treat their patients with care and comfort. Had me back to normal in no time!!
Luca Curti
Luca Curti
00:32 16 Jan 24
I can't thank Nick enough for resolving my knee issue after four months of visiting other therapists with no improvement. From the very beginning, Nick was honest and took the time to educate me about what was happening with my knee. He not only provided effective treatment, but also taught me how to prevent future injuries. Thanks to Nick, my life is back to normal and I can confidently engage in physical activities without worrying about my knee. His expertise and dedication towards his work truly sets him apart from others. I highly recommend Nick to anyone seeking an athletic therapist. Thanks again to you and the entire team Nick.
Naneen Wallace
Naneen Wallace
22:33 15 Jan 24
Fantastic experience with Alex.I previously had an indirect connection with Nick when my daughter required concussion protocol treatment some years back, and was impressed then with Nick’s approach and professionalism.Historically I personally have suffered from a spasming lower back, and the associated debilitating and referred pain that many of us commenting or reading here can relate to.I had received treatment from multiple other physios or chiropractors for this condition, but never really felt satisfied that the root cause of the issue was truly understood, or an effective longer term treatment/correction plan was set in place.So when my back went into spasm this past summer just 2 weeks ahead of a planned 3 week European vacation, involving long periods in a seated position on flights and the planned walking excursions, I really was dreading it.A similar thing had happened 4 years prior, and I got through it solely on medication, I was not prepared to do that again, and thoughts of canceling the trip were top of mind.A friend recommended Physio for Surgery, and when I made the connection to Nick, I immediately made the call to see what the art of the possible via physio might be.I was booked with Alex whom listened to my previous history, recognized the immediate concern and goal for the vacation, performed a detailed evaluation, and then positively stated that we have enough time to allow you to travel in relative comfort. I must admit I was less optimistic.However, after a somewhat intense in person treatment schedule, although not every day, and by me rigorously following the prescribed at home exercises. Alex was true to his word and my family and I enjoyed one of the most memorable trips we’ve had.Upon my return, and with the immediate goal of improved mobility and pain management behind me, note I was continuing all the exercises whilst on vacation, Alex’s treatment plan shifted to addressing the root cause and allowing me to continue exercising at a relatively high intensity.This is where I have equally experienced as much benefit as the initial treatment and hopefully the long term benefits will prevent experiencing another severe back issue. Alex’s ability to connect all the interdependencies of my ‘normal/everyday’ background aches and pains that I had just lived with, and diagnose from an holistic perspective, has enabled me to build Alex’s recommendations into my warm ups and exercise plans, and the benefits have been enormous.No longer am I suffering from right quad pain, which I incorrectly thought was IT band, or the associated referred right knee pain, or semi-routine groin strain from skating. I am doing more now, pain free, at an equal or higher intensity than I have in the last 5 years at least (I am a 49 yr old male).
Iain Stearman
Iain Stearman
16:33 08 Jan 24
Nick is....a life saver? healer? OK he's not Jesus but he is amazing at what he does and helped my daughter recover from a torn PCL in her left knee.My daughter suffered a torn PCL (95-99% tear) in August, a week before a 3-week vacation and 2 months before rep volleyball tryouts.Nick diagnosed the injury and delivered the devastating news in a sensitive and supportive manner, provided comfort and acknowledged the severity of the injury and helped my daughter prepare mentally and emotionally for the journey ahead towards recovery.He got her a custom knee brace in time to save our vacation and allowed her to walk freely. Returning from vacation, he prepared her for volleyball tryouts by knowing her limitations but continued to rehab her knee and confidence.Fast forward several weeks, she went to volleyball tryouts with her brace on and limited mobility against 100+ other girls, vying for 10 spots on the team.This weekend, my daughter won her first volleyball tournament as captain of her team.This story isn't over yet as she is set to return to see Nick and work her way out of her knee brace, but she is as close to 100% as she can be at this point in her recovery and is able to play without restrictions or limitations.Thank you Nick!P.S. Lexi is THE BEST! Her smile, friendly energy and positive attitude at every visit and phone call make you feel right at home - plus she buys all the candy for you to snack on while you wait. Thanks Lexi!
Jonathan Lee
Jonathan Lee
22:45 19 Dec 23
Exceptional physiotherapy experience with Alex! After struggling with a hamstring injury and knee problems, his expertise and personalized approach made a significant difference in my recovery. Grateful for his guidance, professionalism, and effective treatment. I highly recommend Alex for anyone seeking top-notch physiotherapy care.
Itay Kaplin
Itay Kaplin
04:25 20 Nov 23
Everyone at Physio for Surgery is so amazing!!! We have been treated here for various sports related issues, and the staff have always done a great job, providing physio exercises and suggestions to improve recovery.
Fanche Petkovski
Fanche Petkovski
23:15 17 Nov 23
The BEST clinic for athletes! Staff works diligently to make sure you will recover from injuries!
Darie Mitulescu
Darie Mitulescu
15:55 17 Nov 23
Alex would explain everything in great detail for me to understand for my care. Amazing service
Nathan Wu
Nathan Wu
23:45 14 Nov 23
Alex and Brandon were incredibly helpful in my recovery process for both my wrist and ankle. I would highly recommend you visit them for any issues you have.
Nathan Richmond
Nathan Richmond
21:30 14 Nov 23
Very clean. The staff is very professional and know what they are doing. Went for about two months for an injury on my shoulder (an alternate to surgery) and it’s all better now.
Nina Luciano
Nina Luciano
20:43 06 Nov 23
I had the privilege of being treated by Alex, a phenomenal physiotherapist. He went above and beyond in explaining my injury and crafting a personalized plan to strengthen and prevent reinjury, allowing me to go back to playing sports. His expertise and dedication truly made a difference in my recovery journey. I highly recommend Alex to anyone in need of top-notch physiotherapy care!
Catherine Tam
Catherine Tam
22:11 30 Oct 23
Had the pleasure of working with Physio Surgery for my knee injury lately. The staffs are friendly, professional. I was especially fortunate to work with Alex Chan, a physio therapist with years of experience who was very accommodating and had abundance amount of knowledge. His technique was excellent, and exhibited unparalleled care for his patients to make sure the therapy session is suitable as per patient need. Would 100% recommend him and the practice to anyone who is looking for reliable and comfortable physio therapy service.
Charles Liu
Charles Liu
15:20 28 Oct 23
My meniscus surgery has been done in September. This place is highly recommended,they have the magic physiotherapists and machines. They provide very detailed exercises in the portal and gave a very clear instructions.My knee is 90% recovery after one month treatment, I will be continuing to work with the physiotherapist during the golden recovery period. I am lucky to have the treatment here!
Connie Xue
Connie Xue
17:34 27 Oct 23
I’d like to thank Jasmine Chan for her empathy, very good initial assessment and exceptional service.
Jose Hernandez
Jose Hernandez
14:50 22 Oct 23
We have had a great experience with Physio for Surgery. Both of my children (teen/young adult) have seen Nick and team for sports related injuries. The clinicians at Physio for Surgery have great knowledge and experience in dealing with injuries and were able to get both of my kids back on the volleyball court quickly. They utilized some effective equipment at the clinic, and gave my kids exercises to do at home in order to strengthen and prevent future injury. I highly recommend Nick and team...between both kids, we've seen Nick, Jasmine and Brandon. They are all fabulous! You will not be disappointed with the care provided by Physio for Surgery.
Jennifer Gillick
Jennifer Gillick
14:37 20 Oct 23
My husband and I had a great experience in Physio for Surgery. My husband was referred to this place following his ACL knee surgery and I went there for massage therapy. Both Nick and Brandon were so professional and treated us so well. Would recommend this place for both massage and physio therapy.
sonia tabrizi
sonia tabrizi
13:12 17 Oct 23
Love the team at Physio For Surgery. Alex worked with me on my lower back and got me going again so I could golf the rest of the summer.
Winston Stewart
Winston Stewart
22:39 13 Oct 23
Richard G.
Richard G.
13:37 05 Oct 23
I had an excellent experience at this physiotherapy clinic. The staffs are incredibly supportive, and I can't thank Brandon and Alex enough for their amazing work. They helped me effectively address my tendinitis and wrist pains. The care and expertise I received here were truly exceptional, and I highly recommend this clinic to anyone in need of physiotherapy services. Thank you for making such a positive impact on my recovery!
Aaron Hofung
Aaron Hofung
13:44 03 Oct 23
Ari Citak
Ari Citak
21:35 21 Sep 23
Nick is one of the best athletic therapists I've ever worked with. I've been seeing him for many years and he's helped me through countless major and minor injuries and guided me through rehab that allowed me to get back to my sport even stronger. The entire staff is super nice and welcoming as well. They are very organized with appointment times and reminders. I would 10/10 recommend Physio for Surgery!
Michelle Tong
Michelle Tong
15:23 19 Sep 23
Alex was very attentive and with my interest in mind. I had 4 sessions with him for my sore elbow . After those 4 sessions, the pain was almost gone. Now, with the prescribed exercises, I have recovered completely.
Des Chan
Des Chan
03:06 12 Sep 23
Nick was so great and helpful. Have been going to see him for a while and it's always a pleasant experience. He takes the time to listen to my concerns. Would 10/10 recommend Physio for Surgery to anyone! They do a great job getting you back to your regular health!
Katarina Boehringer
Katarina Boehringer
17:53 23 Aug 23
I recently had the pleasure of visiting physio for surgery for a series of physiotherapy sessions, and I can't speak highly enough about the quality of care and service I received. From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the warm and inviting atmosphere of the clinic.The staff there are not only knowledgeable and skilled in their field, but they also genuinely care about the well-being of their patients. Brandon and Nick took the time to thoroughly assess my condition and explain the treatment plan in a way that was easy to understand. Throughout each session, they demonstrated a high level of expertise, ensuring that I was comfortable and making steady progress.
Natalie L
Natalie L
20:40 16 Aug 23
First time using a physiotherapist and it was a total success. Great supportive staff, comfortable surroundings , state of the art equipment and foremost a positive outcome. Within 2 visits was able to walk on my injured knee without a cane and showed improvement on a daily basis with the prescribed exercises and subsequent visits . Walked the golf course yesterday with zero issues. Thanks Brandon and Nick and all the support staff ! Highest recommendation!
Mike Hoyle
Mike Hoyle
17:29 12 Aug 23
What a great team. I was referred to Nick through a buddy and he helped me get through a lingering back problem. My back hasn’t felt this good in years. Thanks man!
Jason Francis
Jason Francis
22:56 11 Aug 23
I injured my shoulder and the therapy I received from the great team of Physio for Surgery helped me to heal quickly. Very friendly and experienced team.
Salvador Sanchez
Salvador Sanchez
17:50 03 Aug 23
We are so happy with our results! Thank you Physio for Surgery!
Maureen Stewart
Maureen Stewart
18:18 31 Jul 23
Fixed my hand/arm issue within 4 visits.
Tyler B
Tyler B
14:30 18 Jul 23
All staff from reception to treatment rooms incredibly friendly & helpful. I would highly recommend your practice to anyone. Each session was covered by e mail and also prepared details for me to work on exercises on my own time. Nick was brilliant and totally helpful. Thank you !
cody n
cody n
18:12 04 Jul 23
Kyle Tong
Kyle Tong
15:58 16 Jun 23