Active Recovery
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Transform Your Recovery with comprehensive
Physiotherapy Care!
Experienced Physiotherapist
Physiotherapist Andrew Macdonald is highly qualified with extensive experience in various physiotherapy specialisations. You can read Andrew’s profile below, showcasing his qualifications and professional achievements.
5-Star Excellence
This collective is proud to showcase hundreds of heartfelt 5-star Google reviews, reflecting the unwavering dedication of practitioners to excellence and patient satisfaction. Each review tells a story of trust, exceptional care, and the meaningful connections individual practitioners have built with those they serve.
Money-Back Guarantee
Each individual practitioner personally offers a 100% money-back guarantee within 14 days if their service doesn’t meet your expectations, providing peace of mind on your health journey. They only take on cases where they are confident they can make a meaningful difference
Decades of Dedication
Since 1990, this collective has been a cornerstone of the community, earning trust and appreciation while joyfully supporting generations of families.
With over 65,500 patients treated, the journey is rich with stories of care, commitment, and lasting relationships.
Patient-Centric Care
In this cozy and welcoming collective hub, a spirit of inclusivity and vibrancy is celebrated. Here, humility meets excellence, and every moment is devoted to patient-centered care.
Your well-being isn’t just a priority—it’s the foundation of everything, ensuring you feel valued and supported every step of the way.
Compassionate Care
A warm-hearted approach, fueled by genuine passion, is dedicated to making a positive impact on your life.
Care and support are delivered with a commitment to not only meet but exceed expectations, ensuring a nurturing and welcoming experience you’ll truly value.
Meet the Physiotherapist
Physiotherapist Andrew Macdonald
Meet Andrew Macdonald
Andrew Macdonald – Bachelor of Physiotherapy. Member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association
We are pleased to introduce Andrew Macdonald, an independent physiotherapist now practising within the Brunswick Health collective. Originally from Perth, Andrew brings a wealth of experience in physiotherapy, offering exceptional care and treatment for a wide range of patients. A dedicated and skilled professional, Andrew graduated from the University of Notre Dame Australia in 2016 and has since worked with diverse patient populations across Australia and the UK.
Qualifications and Rich Background
Andrew began his physiotherapy career in Perth, working with WAFL (West Australian Football League) and WAAFL (West Australian Amateur Football League) teams. His career then took him to London, where he spent over four and a half years honing his skills in some of the UK’s largest and most prestigious hospitals and NHS trusts, including St Thomas’ Hospital and Guy’s Hospital. He also contributed his knowledge to a busy private practice, specialising in the treatment of elite athletes, performers, and entertainers, with a particular focus on injury management and optimising sports performance.
What Areas Of Practice is Andrew Most Passionate About?
Andrew is dedicated to developing tailored rehabilitation plans that enhance functionality and promote optimal physical health for each patient, regardless of their specific athletic or everyday needs. While he has a particular enthusiasm for improving the performance and technique of runners, his expertise benefits a wide range of clients. His approach is especially effective in both acute and chronic conditions, aiming to support each person’s path to peak health and wellness. With extensive clinical experience, Andrew offers comprehensive, patient-focused care that addresses the whole person, not just the symptoms.
What Modalities Does Andrew Use?
In his practice, Andrew skillfully utilises a diverse range of manual therapy techniques. These include joint mobilisations, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and cupping. Additionally, he incorporates exercise rehabilitation, ultrasound, and shockwave therapy into treatment plans. This comprehensive approach ensures that each patient receives a holistic and effective care regimen tailored to their specific needs.
Physiotherapy Treatment Room
Shockwave Therapy
Compression Boots
Rated 4.9 stars from 330+ reviews
We’re thrilled to announce receiving hundreds of five-star reviews! While we’d love to share these testimonials, regulations from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) prevent us from displaying patient outcomes for regulated services such as Chiropractic, Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Podiatry, and Acupuncture on this website. To read client feedback, please visit our Google Reviews directly.
Physiotherapy With a Collaborative Approach
What To Expect During Your Initial Physiotherapy Visits
Have you ever marvelled at the way your body moves, heals, and responds to the world around you? It’s a complex, intricate masterpiece, and sometimes it needs a little help. That’s where physiotherapy comes in – not just a treatment but a journey to rediscover your body’s potential.
What to Expect on Your First Visit
Getting to Know You First: It’s not just about your symptoms. Your physiotherapist wants to understand your daily activities, lifestyle, and health goals. This holistic approach ensures that the treatment plan is tailored specifically for you.
Thorough Assessment: Your physiotherapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment, which may include observing how you move, testing your muscle strength and flexibility, and examining areas of discomfort. This non-invasive examination focuses on identifying areas of tension and imbalance.
Hands-On Treatment:
Physiotherapy encompasses a wide array of treatments, each tailored to meet specific needs. Here’s an overview of the most common types of treatments you might encounter:
Exercise Therapy: This is the cornerstone of physiotherapy. Exercise therapy includes a range of physical activities designed to improve movement, strength, and function. It’s not one-size-fits-all; your physiotherapist will craft a personalised exercise plan aligned with your specific goals.
Electrotherapy: Techniques like shockwave therapy, ultrasound, and TENS fall under this category. These treatments use electrical currents or sound waves to treat pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
Personalised Advice: Your physiotherapist will provide tailored guidance on exercises, posture, and lifestyle changes to support your treatment. This advice is aimed at empowering you to maintain and build upon the benefits of your sessions.
Follow-Up Care: Physiotherapy is a journey, not a one-time fix. Your physiotherapist will discuss a treatment plan, including the frequency of visits and long-term goals, tailored to your needs.
Added Benefit: Referral to a Local Bulk Billing Radiological Centre:
Should your history and examination suggest the need for further investigation, we offer referrals to a local bulk billing radiological centre. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of your condition and represents a significant saving of hundreds of dollars.
What to Expect on Your Second Visit
Navigating Your Second Visit to a Physiotherapist:
After your initial visit, you might wonder what to expect next. The second visit is a crucial step in building upon the foundation laid during your first session.
Review and Feedback: Your second visit often starts with a review. Your physiotherapist will ask about your response to the initial treatment and any exercises you were assigned. This is a great time to provide feedback on what’s working and what’s not, ensuring your treatment plan remains tailored to your needs.
Progress Assessment: Expect a reassessment of your condition. Your physiotherapist will evaluate your progress, which may include measuring changes in strength, flexibility, or pain levels. This helps in adjusting your treatment plan for optimal results.
Advancing Your Treatment: Based on your progress, your physiotherapist might introduce new exercises or advance existing ones. You may also experience different manual therapy techniques or other treatment modalities to further aid your recovery.
Education and Empowerment: Education continues to be a key component. Your physiotherapist will likely provide more in-depth information about your condition and how to manage it. This might include lifestyle or ergonomic advice to help you maintain and improve your health outside the practice.
Setting Short-Term Goals: This visit is an opportunity to set or refine short-term goals. These goals are milestones on your path to recovery and will be used to gauge your progress in future sessions.
Clarifying Home Exercises: Your home exercise program may be updated based on your current status. Ensure you understand any new exercises or changes to your routine – they’re crucial for your continued improvement.
Scheduling Regular Appointments: Consistency is key in physiotherapy. You’ll likely schedule regular appointments to maintain momentum in your treatment. This also allows your physiotherapist to closely monitor your progress and make timely adjustments to your plan.
The second visit is about building momentum and customising your treatment. It’s a collaborative effort, with you and your physiotherapist working together to achieve your health goals. Embrace this journey with commitment and an open mind, and you’ll be well on your way to a healthier, more active life.
Physiotherapy Services Offered
Musculoskeletal Therapy: Musculoskeletal therapy addresses issues involving muscles, bones, and joints. By utilising modern techniques, this therapy focuses on relieving pain and improving mobility for better overall function.
Sports Injury Treatment: With experience in sports injury prevention and recovery, athletes are supported through treatment plans designed to facilitate healing and maintain optimal performance.
Personalised Exercise Rehab Programs: Customised exercise rehabilitation programs are created to promote recovery, manage chronic pain, and improve overall fitness, tailored to individual needs and goals.
Aged Care & NDIS Support: Recognising the unique needs of older adults and NDIS participants, telehealth and in-person physiotherapy services are offered to ensure accessible, high-quality care for all.
Understanding Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession focused on enhancing and restoring physical function and mobility. It’s not just for athletes or injury recovery—it’s for anyone looking to improve how they move, feel, and live.
Think of your body like a high-performance machine. Just as a car requires regular maintenance to keep running smoothly, your body benefits from physiotherapy to maintain and optimise its movement. Physiotherapists are like skilled technicians, fine-tuning muscles, joints, and nerves instead of engines.
Tailored physiotherapy services are available for the local Melbourne community, where independent professionals offer personalised care to help individuals reach their optimal health and well-being.
Satisfaction Guranteed
As independent contractors working within a collective hub, the physiotherapists personally guarantee a professional, personalised experience for every client seeking physiotherapy services. Recognising that trust and satisfaction are vital to healthcare, they offer a Satisfaction Guarantee for all consultations. If, for any reason, your initial consultation does not meet your expectations, you are invited to request a full refund within 14 days of your appointment.
This guarantee reflects the physiotherapists’ confidence in the quality of care they provide and their dedication to supporting your health journey. By offering tailored treatment plans designed to meet your specific needs, they ensure that you feel valued and heard from the moment you engage their services. The aim is to give you peace of mind and confidence in your healthcare choices.
Your well-being remains the top priority in every session, with a focus on delivering care that aligns with your unique goals. This commitment to excellence enhances the trust clients place in their physiotherapists, ensuring a supportive and professional environment throughout your treatment.
What is Physiotherapy?
What are the benefits of Physiotherapy?
Rapid Recovery: Whether you’re healing from an injury or surgery, physiotherapy helps you recover faster, reducing pain and swelling while restoring movement and strength.
Pain Relief: Physiotherapy provides effective relief from pain, whether it’s due to a sports injury, arthritis, or chronic back and neck issues. The best part? It’s drug-free.
Improved Mobility and Flexibility: Stiffness, joint pain, and reduced range of motion can hold you back. Physiotherapy helps you regain full movement, making everyday activities easier and more enjoyable.
Enhanced Athletic Performance: For athletes, physiotherapy isn’t just about recovery; it’s about reaching peak performance. Physiotherapy helps you move better, train harder, and prevent injuries, so you can stay at the top of your game.
Preventive Care: Physiotherapy doesn’t just fix problems; it prevents them. With professional guidance, you’ll learn exercises and techniques to avoid future injuries and maintain optimal health.
Chronic Condition Management: If you’re dealing with conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or chronic pain, physiotherapy provides long-term management strategies that improve your quality of life.
Posture Correction: Poor posture can lead to pain and dysfunction. Physiotherapy helps correct posture issues, reducing strain on your body and preventing future problems.
Personalised Treatment: Every body is different, and physiotherapy recognises that. Your treatment plan is tailored specifically to you, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
Enhanced Balance and Coordination: Physiotherapy can help improve your balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and injuries, especially in older adults or those recovering from surgery.
Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: After surgery, physiotherapy is crucial for regaining strength, mobility, and function. It helps speed up recovery and ensures you get back to your normal activities as quickly as possible.
Injury Prevention: Physiotherapists can identify weaknesses and imbalances in your body, providing targeted exercises to prevent injuries before they happen. This is particularly beneficial for athletes and active individuals.
Breathing and Lung Function: Physiotherapy techniques can help improve respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), enhancing your lung capacity and overall breathing efficiency.
Workplace Injury Recovery: If you’ve been injured on the job, physiotherapy can help you recover more quickly, manage pain, and safely return to work, often with tailored exercises that mimic job-specific tasks.
Support During Pregnancy: Physiotherapy provides support during pregnancy, helping manage pain, improve posture, and prepare the body for childbirth. It can also aid in postpartum recovery, addressing issues like pelvic pain and abdominal separation.
Support for Chronic Pain Conditions: Physiotherapy offers effective strategies for managing chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), helping you lead a more comfortable and active life.
Headache Relief: Many headaches stem from tension and issues in the neck and shoulders. Physiotherapy can alleviate these headaches by addressing the underlying muscular and joint problems.
Education and Empowerment: Physiotherapy empowers you with knowledge about your body and how to care for it. You’ll learn exercises, stretches, and techniques that you can use to maintain your health long after your treatment sessions are over.
Holistic Health Approach: Physiotherapy takes a holistic approach, considering how different aspects of your health and lifestyle interact. This comprehensive care can lead to better overall health outcomes.
Stress Relief: Physical tension and pain often contribute to stress. Physiotherapy helps relieve this tension, promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which in turn can improve your mental well-being.
Improved Circulation: Through targeted exercises and manual therapy, physiotherapy can enhance blood circulation, promoting healing, reducing swelling, and improving overall cardiovascular health.
Customised Fitness Plans: Physiotherapists can create personalised fitness plans that take into account your physical limitations, goals, and overall health, helping you achieve better fitness levels safely and effectively.
Support for Neurological Conditions: Physiotherapy is beneficial for individuals with neurological conditions like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis, helping improve function, mobility, and independence.
Management of Osteoporosis: Physiotherapy can help manage and prevent osteoporosis by providing weight-bearing and resistance exercises that strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures.
Improved Digestive Function: Certain physiotherapy techniques can help alleviate digestive issues, such as constipation or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), by promoting better movement and function within the digestive system.
Rehabilitation from Heart and Lung Conditions: Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, helping patients recover from heart attacks, surgery, or chronic lung conditions by improving endurance, strength, and respiratory function.
Physiotherapy - FAQs
Browse the FAQ section for quick answers. Didn’t find what you were looking for? Give us a call or send us an email—we’re here to help!
What Conditions Can Physiotherapist Treat?
Physiotherapy can treat a variety of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, joint pain, muscle strain, ligament sprain, arthritis, sports injuries, repetitive strain injuries (RSI), and postural problems.
Is Physiotherapy Treatment Painful?
While some discomfort can be expected, especially when starting treatment or working through stiff or injured areas, physiotherapy should not be overly painful. Your physiotherapist will work within your comfort levels and adjust treatment as needed.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The number of sessions varies depending on the individual, their condition, and their goals. Your physiotherapist will provide an estimated treatment plan after your initial assessment.
Do I Need a Referral from a Medical Doctor?
No, a referral is typically not required to see a physiotherapist, as they are registered with AHPRA. However, many medical doctors and specialists do often provide them.
Their extensive education ensures they are well-equipped to provide direct care and tailored treatments for various health issues related to the musculoskeletal system.
AHPRA manages the registration process for all qualified health practitioners such as medical doctors, surgeons, physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, podiatrists, and others, ensuring that all registered individuals meet national standards for their profession in terms of education, competence, effective care, and ethical conduct.
AHPRA plays a crucial role in safeguarding the quality and integrity of healthcare in Australia.
Is Physiotherapy Covered by Health Insurance?
Many health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments under their ‘extras’ or ‘supplementary’ category. However, the extent of coverage can vary significantly based on the level of the policy you have chosen.
To determine exactly what your insurance plan covers regarding physiotherapy, it’s advisable to directly contact your insurance provider.
They can provide detailed information specific to your plan, ensuring you have a clear understanding of your entitlements and any potential out-of-pocket expenses for physiotherapy services.
Can Physiotherapy Help Prevent Injuries?
Absolutely, physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention. By improving flexibility and strength, it helps the body maintain a state of balanced mobility, akin to the suppleness often seen in teenagers.
Additionally, physiotherapy treatments work to reduce muscle tension and enhance joint mobility. This combination of increased flexibility, better posture, and relaxed muscles closely mirrors the natural agility found in younger individuals.
As a result, the body becomes less prone to the types of injuries often associated with stiffness and inflexibility seen in adults. In essence, physiotherapy helps maintain the body’s youthful resilience, reducing the likelihood of injury and keeping you more active and agile.
Can I See a Physiotherapist If I'm Pregnant?
Yes, physiotherapy is generally safe during pregnancy. Physiotherapists are trained to work with pregnant women and can provide treatments to alleviate discomforts like back pain, pelvic pain and difficulty or pain whilst walking.
What Should I Wear to a Physiotherapy Session?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy movement and access to the area being treated. For lower body issues, shorts are a good choice. For upper body issues, a tank top or loose t-shirt works well.
Can I Continue to Exercise or Play Sports During My Treatment?
This depends on your specific condition. Your physiotherapist will advise you on what activities are safe to continue and which ones to avoid during your treatment.
What's The Difference Between Physiotherapy & Chiropractic Care?
Both physiotherapists and chiropractors are healthcare professionals specialising in musculoskeletal care, yet they bring different philosophies and techniques to their practice.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapists, trained through a four-year degree, often concentrate on rehabilitating specific injuries or conditions. Their approach includes prescribed exercises, movement training, and at times, the use of modalities like ultrasound or electrotherapy. Physiotherapists typically work in collaborative healthcare settings, focusing on restoring function and mobility, with a strong emphasis on exercise and localised treatment.
Chiropractic
A holistic five-year degree program prepares chiropractors to view the body as an integrated system, emphasising its innate healing abilities. They employ a variety of hands-on methods, such as soft tissue techniques, mobilisation, and chiropractic manipulative treatment.
Chiropractors are known for their whole-body approach, often addressing lifestyle factors like posture and stress alongside the primary condition. They also possess diagnostic skills for comprehensive patient care.
While both professions provide valuable and complementary approaches to musculoskeletal health, the choice between a physiotherapist and a chiropractor will depend on the patient’s specific needs and health objectives.
Our collective hub uniquely offers the benefits of both physiotherapy and chiropractic alongside osteopathic care, fostering a collaborative environment that prioritises the patient’s well-being.
Can Physiotherapy Help With Chronic Pain?
Yes, physiotherapy can be very effective in managing chronic pain. It helps by improving strength, flexibility, and teaching pain management techniques.
Will I Receive a Personalised Treatment Plan?
Absolutely! Every treatment plan is personalised to meet your individual needs and goals. Your physiotherapist will work with you to create a plan that’s both effective and manageable.
Call or Book Online Today
Embark on your journey to recovery and wellness with physiotherapy. Take charge of your recovery and mobility with comprehensive, personalised care.
Book a session now to experience tailored treatments focused on restoring function, reducing pain, and enhancing your quality of life. With the expertise of a seasoned physiotherapist, you’ll be empowered to achieve physical rejuvenation and strength. Your journey to optimal health and wellness starts here!
Ready to take the first step? Book your appointment online for a seamless and convenient experience. The modern booking system allows you to independently select the time that best fits your schedule, ensuring flexibility and ease in your care.
Physiotherapy - Telehealth
What Is Physio Telehealth?
Understanding that mobility challenges or personal circumstances, like self-imposed isolation, can make it difficult for some individuals to visit a centre, we’ve embraced innovation to bridge this gap. Enter the world of Telehealth – a dynamic and effective solution for physiotherapy that comes to you, wherever you are.
Imagine the convenience of accessing professional physiotherapy care right from the comfort of your home. Physio Telehealth services offer just that – a virtual, one-on-one consultation with your dedicated physiotherapist, facilitated through a secure and easy-to-use video call platform.
Through these video consultations, your journey to recovery and wellness won’t hit a pause, even if you’re unable to step out of your home. You’ll receive the same personalised attention, expert advice, and guided exercise routines as you would in a face-to-face session. It’s physiotherapy reimagined for your convenience and continuity of care.
So, whether you’re managing physical limitations or choosing to stay indoors, a Telehealth option ensures your physiotherapy needs are met with the utmost care and professionalism. It’s more than just a consultation; it’s a commitment to your health, uninterrupted.
Getting Started with Video Consultations
Embracing the digital age, many of you are already enjoying the convenience of video calls, similar to ‘face-time’, for staying connected. For those new to this technology, here’s how simple and effective it is for physiotherapy:
The Basics: All you need is a smartphone or computer with a camera (most devices come equipped with one).
Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection suitable for video calls or conferencing.
Downloading Physiapp: Download the free ‘Physiapp’ from the link provided. It’s a straightforward process, just like getting any other app.
Booking Your Appointment: Schedule your Telehealth appointment easily by clicking here. It’s just a few clicks to a professional consultation.
Receiving the Call: Your physiotherapist will initiate a video call to you via Physiapp at the scheduled time.
Consent and Privacy: Upon answering, Physiapp will request your consent to proceed – a step ensuring your privacy and comfort.
Commencing the Session: Once you give consent, you’ll enter the virtual consultation room for a face-to-face session with your physiotherapist.
Post-Consultation Process:
Payment and Receipts: Our reception team will facilitate a seamless credit card payment over the phone, following which you’ll receive an emailed receipt. Direct deposit options are also available.
Insurance Rebates: Some health insurances cover Telehealth consultations. It’s worth checking with your provider to see if you can claim a rebate.
How to Prepare For Physio Telehealth Consultations?
Dress Appropriately: Opt for comfortable yet form-fitting clothing, like gym wear, to allow free movement and let your physiotherapist assess your movements accurately.
Jewellery and Safety: Remove necklaces or other jewellery that might interfere with movement.
Create Your Space: Ensure there’s enough room around you to move freely without bumping into furniture.
Device Setup: Position your phone, tablet, or computer so you can see and be seen by your physiotherapist effectively.
Equipment at Hand: Keep any exercise or therapy tools, like spiky balls, bands, light weights, or foam rollers, within reach if you have them.
Contact Us Today
We are conveniently located in the heart of Brunswick for easy access to all local residents.
Address: 1/68 Melville Road Brunswick, VIC 3055
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Areas We Serve
Brunswick, Brunswick West, Brunswick East, Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Parkville, Coburg, Carlton, Fitzroy, Pascoe Vale South, Pascoe Vale, Thornbury, Northcote.
Registered Health Providers
