You're Not Broken.
You Haven't Been Built.
Six surgeries. Multiple comebacks. The reason Ikaika exists is because standard rehab failed first.
The Athlete Behind the Method
Mana Shigematsu DPT · BSc Exercise Science · Epigenetics Coach · Dry Needling · Sports Physio L1 & 2Mana is the founder and physiotherapist of Ikaika: Integrated Recovery & Performance. His background and expertise in exercise and physiotherapy go well beyond the walls of a university.
His passion for injury rehabilitation was ignited at the age of 15 when he experienced a severe knee injury that was mismanaged for five years. He underwent his first joint surgery at the age of 20 and came to realise what the human body was capable of. Doctors told him he would not be able to perform in sport the same again, would have arthritis and his knees would not be the same again.
Over the past eight years, he has worked with a massive variety of individuals — from the elderly who need falls prevention programs, to professional surfers and soccer players. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Exercise at Colorado Mesa University in 2013 and his Doctor of Physiotherapy from Bond University in 2021. He is also a certified epigenetics health coach endorsed by ph360.
Mana's special interests and passions lie in the areas of musculoskeletal, post-operative (orthopaedic), chronic pain management, epigenetics, stroke, early-stage Parkinson's Disease, vestibular rehab and sports physiotherapy.
He has a particular passion working with combat sports athletes, bodybuilders & fitness competitors, surfers, soccer players and baseball players.
CertificationsFrom elite sport to complex rehabilitation, Mana has worked across a wide range of clinical settings:
"I had six surgeries, multiple dislocations, and doctors telling me my athletic career was over. Instead of accepting that narrative, I rebuilt myself stronger — and that's exactly what I do for every athlete who walks through our door."
Why Ikaika Exists
Each comeback proved the same thing: standard care isn't built for athletes. Each rehab taught him what real recovery looks like — not what the textbook says.
That's why Ikaika exists. It's the clinic Mana wished existed when he was 15. Built for combat sports athletes, lifters, runners, fighters, and everyone who refuses to accept "you'll never be the same."
Not generic rehab. Athlete-first physiotherapy.
In Mana's Own Words
A look inside the philosophy behind the method.
Meet the Team
Practitioners who train as hard as the people they treat.
Joel Nucum
Joel is a Doctor of Physiotherapy with 10+ years of experience across elite sport, biomechanics research, and performance coaching. From Bond University Rugby to Stanford University's Human Performance Lab, his approach bridges the gap between the clinic and the gym. Specialises in injury rehab, load management, and movement optimisation for combat athletes.
10+ years bridging the clinic and the gym. If you want your injury fixed, not managed — Joel is your guy.
Book with Joel ›We're expanding the team. A new physiotherapist is joining the Ikaika family — details coming shortly.
Adding dedicated S&C expertise to bridge the gap between the physio table and the training floor.
Remedial massage and soft tissue therapy joining the clinic to round out the full recovery offering.
What We're Here to Do
To show people they can achieve more than they believe — through physiotherapy and exercise.
What We Stand For
Ready to Get Back in the Arena?
Your initial assessment is 60+ minutes — properly diagnosed, fully understood, with a real plan from day one.
Hey — ready to get back in the arena?
How can we help today?
Ikaika Method · Gold Coast