Qualifications and Clinical Focus AreasI hold a Diploma of Remedial Massage Therapy and a Diploma of Health Science (Nutrition and Naturopathy).
My areas of clinical interest include:• Neck, back and shoulder pain • Musculoskeletal headaches • Chronic pain management • Recovery and rehabilitation following injury • Trigger point therapy • Functional cupping • Gua sha techniques • Soft tissue dysfunction and movement-related pain
How do you keep up with evolving clinical evidence?
I maintain my knowledge through continuing professional education, including workshops, professional development courses and reviewing current research literature. I also engage with the remedial massage and broader musculoskeletal healthcare community to stay informed about evolving approaches to assessment and treatment.
This ongoing learning helps me provide care that reflects current knowledge, clinical experience and each client’s individual needs.
Why does my pain persist if my scans are normal?Pain can persist even when scans appear normal. Pain is complex and unique to each person, and it is not always directly related to tissue damage or structural changes visible on imaging.
A range of factors may contribute to ongoing pain, including muscle tension, trigger points, increased sensitivity within the nervous system, stress, reduced physical activity, poor sleep and other lifestyle factors. Some sources of discomfort may not be visible on standard imaging tests.
Understanding the factors contributing to a person’s symptoms is an important part of developing an appropriate management plan.
What factors could be contributing to my symptoms?Symptoms can be influenced by a range of physical and lifestyle factors, including:• Stress • Muscle overuse or repetitive movements • Reduced physical activity • Sleep quality and recovery • Workstation setup and ergonomics • Physical demands at work or home • Muscle weakness or imbalance • Movement habits and postural patterns
Considering these factors helps build a more complete picture of what may be contributing to pain or restricted movement.
What happens during my initial appointment?
Your initial appointment begins with a discussion about your symptoms, health history and any factors that may be relevant to your concerns.
This information helps identify potential contributors to your symptoms and any precautions that may need to be considered before treatment.
Depending on your presentation, I may assess posture, movement, mobility and muscle function. We will then discuss suitable treatment options and ensure you feel informed and comfortable before proceeding.
How do you tailor treatment for someone with a busy schedule?Every person has different commitments, abilities and priorities. When making recommendations, I focus on strategies that are realistic and achievable within your lifestyle.
If exercises or movement strategies are recommended, they are tailored to your available time and current capacity. Where possible, we look for practical ways to incorporate movement into your daily routine, such as at work, at the gym or at home.Small, sustainable changes are often more effective than trying to make significant changes all at once.
What treatment approaches do you use, and why?My treatment approach may include remedial massage, trigger point therapy, functional cupping, gua sha and movement-based strategies where appropriate.Treatment recommendations are based on the individual’s presentation, treatment goals, preferences and clinical assessment findings. The aim is to help improve comfort, movement and overall physical function while supporting a broader management plan when required.
How do we know if treatment is working?Progress is assessed using measures that are meaningful to the individual.This may include changes in pain levels, movement, physical function, daily activities, work capacity or participation in exercise and recreation.
Ongoing feedback, reassessment and discussion help determine whether treatment is meeting your goals and whether any adjustments may be helpful.
What is your philosophy on recovery?My focus is not solely on reducing pain, but also on helping people improve their ability to move, function and participate in the activities that are important to them.
Where appropriate, treatment is combined with education and self-management strategies to help clients better understand their symptoms and support their long-term wellbeing.
Will I need to stop doing the activities I enjoy?Not necessarily. In many situations, remaining active is an important part of recovery.Where an activity is contributing to symptoms, we may look at temporary modifications while working towards improving tolerance and capacity. The goal is often to help you continue participating in meaningful activities as comfortably and safely as possible.
Chelsea
Diploma of Remedial Massage Therapy
Diploma of Health Science (Nutrition and Naturopathy), Lion Rocker Health