Pembina Valley Physio, started in 1993, is marking a major milestone.

Founder and Physiotherapist Cameron Schulz is moving on, entrusting the practice to his colleagues Matthew Giesbrecht, Karen Doell and Office Manager Leah Klassen.

Karen Doell joined early on in the mid 90's helping expand the business.

At the time, Pembina Valley Physio was a trailblazer in the field, "it was the early days of rehab" Schulz says.

As the office began seeing more patients from outlying communities, Schulz began opening satellite offices around the region.

Since they opened he estimates they have over 16,000 files in their five clinics.

"That means 16,000 different people have walked through the doors of Pembina Valley Physio," he says. "That's a fairly good percentage of the region."

He notes much of that growth occurred gradually through word-of-mouth and physician referral.

"I have lots of admiration for how he built it up," Doell says.

She notes they will continue to work to meet the needs of the growing region.

"It's a challenge for sure, and I think it's one we're willing to take up," Doell says. "We just really want to provide the area with the best service possible and improve the health of the community."

While techniques and research have evolved over the years, she notes the basic goals of improving physical function and decreasing pain remain.