About PhysioWise Online

Meet Our Founder – Tuula Niskanen

PhysioWise is a Rehab Pilates program that specializes in back and orthopedic rehabilitation using both pilates and exercise therapy.

The founder, Tuula Niskanen, is a licensed physiotherapist in Finland with multiple fitness and Pilates certifications in the US over her 30 years of experience. She noticed that there was a lack of education and too many short-term solutions for back pain. This is why Tuula researched her own methodologies providing long-term solutions for back-pain relief focusing on the education and improvement of muscle functions.

Having taught Pilates in Carlsbad, CA since 2008, Tuula has helped numerous clients suffering from back pain, orthopedic pain, and neurological conditions. Tuula wanted to help individuals all across the world with her program, which is why she brought PhysioWise… Online.

The PhysioWise Online Program combines Pilates and exercise therapy to effectively improve your rehabilitation process safely all from the comfort of your home.

Why PhysioWise Online & Tuula Niskanen?

Highly Educated

Physiotherapist, Helsinki Health College, Finland, 1991

Comprehensive degree of Physical Education, coaching and Exercise Science, Pajulahti Sports Institute, Finland, 1997

Personal Fitness Trainer, De Anza College, CA 2002

Personal Trainer, American Council of Exercise, 2003

Pilates Instructor, Pilates Institute of America (PIA), 2004

Golf Conditioning Specialist, GMP Fitness, 2006

Pilates Instructor, Body Art and Science International (BASI), 2008 (Comprehensive 500 Hours)

years of Experience

For over 30 years Tuula has been helping people with chronic back pain, spondylolisthesis, osteoarthritis, scoliosis, SI-joint dysfunction, lumbar spine instability, osteoporosis, sciatica, degenerative joint and disc disease, herniated or bulging disc, knee & hip replacement, shoulder & neck pain, common sport & overuse injuries, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson Disease, and Fibromyalgia.

This has allowed Tuula to research and perfect her own methodologies that provide long-term solutions to the underlying problems causing back and orthopedic pain.

Effective programs

Tuula’s designed PhysioWise Online Programs serve as excellent continuation therapy after Physical Therapy, Chiropractor care, and post-rehab after orthopedic surgery. With a thorough PT background, she is well trained and highly educated in Anatomy, Physiology, Musculoskeletal Biomechanics, and Exercise Intervention. 

This allows her to appropriately adapt therapeutic Pilates exercises and exercise therapy safely and efficiently based on each client’s individual needs and condition, which brings optimum benefits to her clients. 

Meet One of Our Clients, Gary Gurian

I cannot tell you enough how much Tuula has changed my life. “I went from not being able to participate in any activities because of my chronic back pain to now being almost completely pain free. After working with Tuula I am able to run again and even go skiing. My core has never been stronger!”

– Gary Gurian, fitness and wellness coach 

Client Testimonials

Tuula has a rare combination of extensive experience & knowledge in PT and Pilates. She is truly a rare find! On top of this her European approach to patient care is very personal and friendly - unlike any I have experienced in 100's of hours of PT before. I have 20+ years experience trying many different modalities in conventional and alternative treatments for recovery and pain from 3 surgeries. Lastly she loves her work and does not charge an arm and a leg like most other treatments I have tried before.
Kevin Krause
I am disabled in my back and left leg. I have gone to 4 physical therapies. Not one Ever even Mentioned the Word Alignment Tulla is truly an artist of Alignment and balance Of Every muscle and All Alignment... She Immediately analyzed my lack of Alignment... Tulla watches every Muscle, and every move that Puts your Alignment off to any degree. I’ve Never had Care that even came Close ; Her Eyes Are Constantly watching every move I make. The slightest degree off balance Is Immediately Corrected. I had a back surgery 10 years ago. That wasn’t Supposed to touch my back all failed and my scoliosis is much worse. Tuula makes sure I’m learning to feel balanced Not only with Tuula, but to Take it with me... She is Amazing. Certainly Not Just Pilates.
Brenda Kitrosser
I am avid road biker who use to suffer from back and shoulder pain. Traditional physical therapy didn't help. I was looking for a specialist who can help me strengthen my core and rehabilitate my shoulder from an old injury. I found Tuula at PhysioWise, Carlsbad. She is a physiotherapist and Pilates instructor originally educated and trained in Finland. Her program to reduce my back pain and improve my shoulder range of motion allows me to move without pain. I can ride longer without my back getting tired. I credit her program to where I can now comfortably ride centuries. I can warmly recommend her to everyone who has back issues or orthopedic injuries.
Tom Ka
Tuula is a physical therapist and a Pilates instructor. She is frankly the best I have ever worked with (note: I have had to go to physical therapy on a regular basis since 1996 so I know an excellent instructor from a just okay one). She guides me through my work, knows exactly what my body needs and I am so grateful. I am stronger, more agile, more flexible because of her abilities. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER WORK and I plan to continue with her weekly for a long time. It has made a huge difference in the quality of my life.
Maureen Pierre
Tuula is wonderful, and her services have improved the strength and balance in my muscles to protect arthritic knees (without any pain after any session). She is detailed in alignment and far more knowledgeable than any other Pilates instructor I have been to (she was a PT in Finland). I am so glad to be getting stronger, without pain!
Jennifer Lyons
I had the privilege of working with Tuula while visiting my daughter this September. I have enjoyed Pilates for several years and Tuula takes it to another lever. She is knowledgeable and intuitive. She taught me so much about my body and how it works. I have been able to incorporate her lessons into my practice back home. I can’t wait to get back to Carlsbad and work with her again!
Dawn Kyle
Tuula showed me that Osteoporosis doesn't limit your ability to do Pilates or exercise. Through her knowledge of physiology and safe movements, she guided me through Pilates with a focus on buliding core strength. Tuula watches every move and works with me to improve balance and posture and at the same time, doesn't let me slack off during the session. I came her for help with a limitation and ended up being a happy client for over 4 years because it was fun. I recommend Pilates PhysioWise for anyone who is looking to come out of a physical setback and wants to emerge strong and confident., pulvinar dapibus leo.
Karen Reel
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Tuula for 9 years. She has helped me with hip and knee pain, including pre and post knee replacement surgery. Her extensive knowledge of physical therapy and Pilates is a unique combination in keeping fit and working through arthritis.
Karen Bond
Doing Pilates with Tuula has been life-changing for me. I'm in my 60's, struggling with fibromyalgia and years of deconditioning. Working with Tuula has helped reduce my pain and made me much stronger overall.
Debra Sherman
Tuula is absolutely amazing. I have had a injury for 5 years and she has helped me as no one else has. Grateful for Tuula and can’t recommend PhysioWise highly enough!
Nava Young

You deserve a long-term pain relief and achieving an active lifestyle

Don’t let your back pain or fear of pain stop you from living a comfortable life. Learn more about how we can help you with our free masterclass.

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