Elite Spinal Physiotherapy and Pilates

Do you use swimming to complement your physiotherapy?

Swimming provides low-impact exercise and is a great way to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and boost your mood.

Elite Spinal Physiotherapy is a leading spine treatment clinic, providing best-in-class scoliosis treatment and management for both mild and severe conditions.

What are the common signs of Scoliosis?

Patients may describe one or more of the following...

• Uneven shoulders or hips
• Prominent shoulder blade
• Rib hump on one side (when you bend to touch your toes)
• Visible curve
• Asymmetrical waist

As physiotherapists we will help with diagnosis and conservative management of this condition which will include:
• Tailored strengthening exercises and stretches for your individual curve (there is no one size fits all)
• Referral for bracing if deemed appropriate

We will refer to scoliosis surgeons for an opinion if there is a significant cobb angle or significant change in a cobb angle within a short time frame .

Typically surgery is a consideration if a cobb angle is greater than 40 degrees however many factors play a part in that decision.

We will be there to guide and support you through your journey with scoliosis.

MEET PRUE ✨

Prue grew up on a farm in North West NSW.

After spending time in London and Sydney, she completed a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at Charles Sturt University in Orange. On completion of these studies Prue decided to return to country NSW and gain experience working with rural communities.

She started her private practice career looking after patients in Moree and Narrabri. These busy country clinics ensured that Prue gained sound experience in a diverse range of musculoskeletal physiotherapy. This is also where she developed a passion for spinal care, chronic pain management and clinical pilates.

When she is not in the clinic, Prue enjoys runs with her pet Jack Russell, playing netball and touch footy, as well as socialising with friends.

It is important to be able to recognise the signs of scoliosis. Early diagnosis leads to better management and outcomes for the patient ☀️

Things to look for include:
• Uneven shoulders or hips
• Prominent shoulder blade
• Rib hump on one side (when you bend to touch your toes)
• Visible curve
• Asymmetrical waist

As physiotherapists we will help with diagnosis and conservative management of this condition which will include:
• Tailored strengthening exercises and stretches for your individual curve (there is no one size fits all)
• Referral for bracing if deemed appropriate

We will refer to scoliosis surgeons for an opinion if there is a significant cobb angle or significant change in a cobb angle within a short time frame .

Typically surgery is a consideration if a cobb angle is greater than 40 degrees however many factors play a part in that decision.

We will be there to guide and support you through your journey with scoliosis ✨

Did you know that all practitioners here at Elite Spinal Physiotherapy are certified and have a particular interest in back pain physiotherapy, in particular the diagnosis, treatment and ongoing management of the spine and related disorders?

We provide a targeted and non-invasive hands-on approach to treatment, whilst providing a proven rehabilitation program aimed at restoring your body and spine to optimal function.

All therapists have a strong exercise rehabilitation focus and believe that patient self-management strategies are integral to the prevention of ongoing pain related to spinal disorders.

June is National Scoliosis Awareness Month 💫

We're dedicated to raising awareness about scoliosis and the importance of early detection. Scoliosis affects many in our community, and understanding its signs and symptoms can make a significant difference in managing and treating this condition.

Throughout this month, we'll be sharing valuable information, tips, and resources to help you stay informed and proactive about scoliosis.

Let's work together to educate, support, and promote healthier spines!

MEET LISSANTHEA ✨

We are thrilled to welcome Lissanthea to our South Yarra team - what a powerhouse she is!

Lissanthea brings extensive experience in treating back, pelvis and neck pain, as well as other body areas such as shoulders, hips, knees, ankles and elbows.

Lissanthea is passionate about helping people to recover from pain and injury, and finding solutions to help you get back to living.

Lissanthea believes in the power of listening closely to your story, understanding the forces and mechanisms that have caused your pain, and making sure that the exercises and progressions you do to build strength and mobility are directed towards the goals you’ve set together.

Lissanthea is highly experienced in helping people with complex, persisting pain conditions, and re-building people’s trust and confidence in their bodies.

Lissanthea understands the way that pain and injury can feel confusing and daunting, and she’ll help you confidently navigate the challenges on the road to recovery.

Lissanthea completed her physiotherapy education at the University of Sydney, and completed further education at Columbia University in New York. She has lived and worked in America, Portugal and China, as well as Australia.

Clinical Modalities: Manual Therapy Clinical Pilates Exercise-based Rehabilitation Pain Neuroscience Education Graded Motor Imagery

CERVICAL INSTABILITY

Cervical instability of the spine can be caused by either trauma such as a motor vehicle accident or from congenital conditions which can cause abnormality within the cervical ligaments and connective tissue.

Can Be Classified as:
Cranio-cervical instability (CCI)
Atlanto-axial instability (AAI)

Principles of Rehab:
• Breathing
• ⁠Alignment
• ⁠Strengthening
• ⁠Proprioception

Top 3 Exercises:
1. Diaphragmatic breathing - important so there is not overuse of accessory muscles of breathing.
2. ⁠Low row - Strengthening postural muscles in good alignment.
3. ⁠Isometric side flexion

Upper cervical instability is quite complex and we will dive into more detail in coming posts!

Have you booked your Pilates session for this week?

Our classes are effective, tailored and most importantly fun. Our beautifully styled state of the art studios have everything you need for a great session.

Book via link in bio 😊

Have you met Brigitte our Clinic Founder & Director? ✨

Brigitte graduated from Sydney University with a Masters of Physiotherapy. She has a strong exercise rehab base having previously completed a Bachelor of Exercise Science and Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology from Wollongong University.

Her passion is physiotherapy for low back pain treating complex spinal, pelvic and postural related neck and shoulder pain. Throughout her career she has seen how integral a healthy spine can be in the prevention of injury to all other parts of the body.

Her approach is to find and treat the dysfunctions in alignment and movement patterns of the body rather than focusing and treating only the painful site.

Did you know, we have clinics in Sydney, Melbourne, and Bowral?

Our boutique clinics provide unrivalled state of the art facilities, client focused care, hands on spinal treatment, and tailored physiotherapist led clinical Pilates sessions.

MEET MARK ✨

Mark McDonald is a Remedial Massage Therapist from Brisbane, Australia. He has a deep passion for health and wellness, and combines up-to-date techniques with a holistic appreciation of the body’s natural healing ability.

Mark completed a Diploma of Remedial Massage at the highly regarded QAcademy in Brisbane, and has since achieved great results and praise from a range of clientele including professional athletes, rehab patients and everyday recovery and maintenance. He combines a wide variety of techniques with positive communication to ensure that each treatment balances efficacy and relaxation.

Outside of the treatment room Mark loves talking footy, keeping active and going to live music gigs!

Mark is now available for massage bookings at our South Yarra studio!

Book via link in bio ✨

Hydration isn't just a trend, it's a lifestyle 💧

From sharper focus to increased energy, keeping hydrated fuels your body and mind for peak performance!

Why is Pre Operative Rehabilitation Important? 🤷‍♀️

To achieve a speedy recovery and an optimal result following surgery, it is imperative that you are as strong as possible before the surgery. The exercise program that you complete before the surgery is commonly known as ‘prehab’ and involves strengthening the specific areas that are going to support you following the surgery.

Pre Operative Rehabilitation Involves:
✔️ Strengthening muscles around the area that is to be operated on
✔️ Building muscles so there is less wasting after the rest period following surgery
✔️ Allowing you to exercise in a safe environment leading up to surgery
✔️ Educating you about what to expect post operatively

MEET MARCELA ✨

Marcela completed her Diploma of Remedial Massage at the Australasian College of Natural Therapies in 2008. Her passion for Remedial Massage grew from her own personal experience with injury and recovery playing rugby union throughout her younger years. From this, Marcela has developed a deep understanding of the physical demands of sport and what is required to prevent future injury and maintain overall health.

Marcela has a keen interest in staying up to date with the latest studies and techniques to help relieve pain and speed up recovery time for her clients and has recently completed further studies in Dry Needling and Myofascial Release Cupping to add to her treatment toolkit.

Outside of work, Marcela enjoys spending quality time with her kids, pilates, surfing, and embracing the south coast lifestyle.

Did you know that your spine craves movement?

This ergonomic setup picture is quite familiar to most; however, my top tips for creating the best work setup are:

• Flexible chair back
• Use of supports, e.g., sacral cushions or lumbar roll
• Most importantly, change positions often.
• Use a sit-to-stand desk (electric, so you use it!)

Consistently changing positions helps the discs in your spine stay healthy - they crave movement!

Just like the ocean, our bodies crave movement. Whether it's a gentle stroll or an intense workout, movement is essential for our physical and mental wellbeing.

Elite Spinal Physiotherapy treats severe headache and migraine conditions using the latest techniques known as the Watson Headache® Approach.

The diagnostic accuracy of the Watson Headache® Approach is unparalleled. It can confirm if disorders in the upper neck are responsible for headaches or migraine and determine the exact nature of the disorder as well as which spinal joints are involved.

There is no guesswork and no cracking or manipulation. Its unique and powerful feature involves temporary reproduction and resolution (easing) of usual head pain.

Introducing Hector... and our exciting new Remedial Massage service! 👋🏻

Hector has spent the last decade working alongside Physiotherapists and is qualified with a Diploma of Remedial Massage (allowing Health Fund rebates, if your policy covers massage) and a diploma in Fitness Training. He is a gifted massage therapist and uses Remedial Massage as his primary tool to help restore his patients to peak physical condition. With this experience and additional training, he is highly skilled in prenatal and postnatal massage.

Hector is also a qualified Personal Trainer and Strength and Conditioning Coach. He uses this knowledge to provide targeted remedial massage to athletes and to give guidance around stretching and exercises to help in rehabilitation. This also enables him to work closely with our physiotherapists to complement the treatment of patients and he is skilled in a wide range of massage techniques.

Héctor is passionate about running, soccer, and travelling and has practised the arts for most of his life.

QUALIFICATIONS
• Certified Level 1 Dry Needling
• Diploma in massage
• Diploma in Fitness
• Cert IV in Massage Therapy Practice
• ASCA Level 1 Strength and Conditioning Coach Accreditation

TYPES OF MASSAGE AVAILABLE:
Remedial massage
Deep tissue
Myofascial release
Pregnancy
Trigger points
Sports
Relaxation massage

Spondylosis, also known as spinal osteoarthritis, is a prevalent degenerative condition that affects the spine.

While it is often associated with aging, various factors contribute to its development. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for minimizing symptoms and improving quality of life.

SPOT THE SIGNS
Think of spondylosis as your spine's way of saying, 'Hey, I need some TLC!' Look out for chronic neck or back pain, stiffness, and functional impairment.

TREATMENT
A mixture of exercises that support and decompress your spine, along with targeted hands-on therapy, aims to keep you as mobile and pain-free as possible.

PREVENTION IS KEY
Want to keep your spine feeling young? Maintain good posture, stay active, and give it the love it deserves.

MEET ALEX ✨Alex is a passionate Physiotherapist that enjoys helping patients manage their pain. Believing in a holistic a patient tailored approach, Alex combines hands on therapy, exercise and dry needling in the treatment of his patients.
Alex has a broad range of skills having previously worked in acute, aged and rehabilitative care and has experience providing pre and post operative care. He loves treating all things spinal from lower back pain to headaches.
Alex is very experienced in the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of neurological conditions, in particular Parkinson’s disease. As a bit of an anatomy nerd, Alex has continued teaching human anatomy and physiology ever since graduating.
In his spare time, Alex loves keeping active, participating in and coaching CrossFit, plus tending to his multiple indoor plants 🌱 🌿

MEET SAM ✨ We are very lucky to have Sam join the Bondi Physiotherapy team. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge. He is very passionate about everything spine and enjoys treating everything from disc bulges, facet joint issues to general back and neck pain. He will help you get strong and back to doing the things that you love.

Sam values the importance of patient education and seeks to ensure that you leave your appointment with a plan which provides an understanding of what you’re doing and most importantly, why you’re doing it. His treatment approach combines manual therapy, dry needling and exercise based therapies tailored to your needs to ensure your best outcome.

Coming from rural New Zealand, Sam appreciates all things outdoors, whether it be surfing, fishing or camping. He understands how important recreational time is to your well being, so you can guarantee that Sam will do everything he can to keep you out there enjoying your hobbies.

Sam recently completed a kayaking challenge with members of his family, so be sure to ask him all about it when you see him in the clinic.

MEET SARAH ✨ Sarah has just joined our Bondi Physiotherapy team. She comes to us all the way from Ireland. Sarah has completed her Sport and Exercise Science degree with first class honours and went on to complete her Masters of Physiotherapy in Scotland.
She has a wide range of experience and has developed a special interest in spinal pain, musculoskeletal injuries, sporting injuries and post-natal return to running rehabilitation. She is a fully certified Pilates instructor and has also completed her 200 hour Yoga teacher training in Greece and continues to use these skills in both exercise and rehab setting - What a powerhouse !!! Book in today before her diary is filled - I anticipate it won’t take long at all 😊

We were honoured to be asked to be Physios for who are performing at the . What talent !

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas from all of us here at Elite ❤️💚

TEAM ELITE 🏃🏼‍♀️🏅

Thankyou to Hip and Knee Specialist Dr. Michael Goldberg for coming to share his knowledge on management of Meniscal injuries of the knee

What a fun morning ! Talking about the link between the brain, chronic pain and the importance of movement

A big thankyou to Neurologist Dr. David Rosen who shared his knowledge about all things headache and migraine. We could have listened for hours ! 🧠🤓

Quay Quarter location • Sydney CBD • It’s all in the detail ✨