Meet our new physiotherapist, Jess!

In the blog we get down to the nitty gritty as we get to know Jess as she takes flight in her new home (you’ll get the pun later in the piece). She answers some fun and insightful questions that will give you a glimpse into her life, both as a professional and as an individual.

Why did you become a physiotherapist?

Growing up I spent my youth immersed in sport from swimming, water-polo, dance and even a bit of running here and there. I had an older brother so whatever he did I wanted to copy too (apart from dance that one was all me). Unfortunately, my body didn’t quite enjoy taking part in these sports as much as I did, this led to multiple injuries and trips to the local physio. It was during these visits and being on the receiving end of treatment which opened my eyes to the possibility of a career in physiotherapy. I saw firsthand how effective treatment could be, enabling people to return to activities they loved and improve overall quality of life. Being a physio allows me to blend my passion for movement with my desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives – who wouldn’t want to do that?!

What is the biggest injury you have had?

During my first year of studying to be a physiotherapist I got thrown into a swimming pool after competing for the university for the first time. Unfortunately, this first gala also became my last. Yup that’s right, one silly little throw mixed with a hypermobile joint resulted in a suspected shoulder dislocation leaving me with an injury called a SLAP lesion. The following summer I spent my holidays recovering from surgery. The hard work then began as I not only studied the theory of physiotherapy, but I also rehabilitated my shoulder too! Looking back, I am grateful for this injury, as it not only expanded my knowledge on shoulder injuries, but it also equipped me with one of the most valuable qualities in my profession: empathy. Having walked the path of recovery myself, I can better relate to my clients' struggles and triumphs on their own healing journeys.

What do you do now to stay active?

Like many people in Australia, I’ve fallen in love with Pilates! I enjoy both mat and reformer classes, and I recently completed an instructor course. This not only enhanced my knowledge and skills for teaching but also helps me improve my own practice.

I’ve also been thinking about getting back into swimming. Now that I live in this beautiful country, I’m eager to explore the ocean pools. However, I must admit I’m a bit of a scaredy-cat when it comes to swimming in the open ocean just yet!

How long have you been in Australia for?

Its coming up to a year now since we left the UK to begin our travels. En route over we stopped for a short trip in Hong Kong and then spent a month exploring Vietnam before we landed in Australia last November. We spent last summer completing an incredible road trip along the East Coast in our campervan named Stevie (yes- just like the icon Stevie Nicks of course). We enjoyed the slow life living by the beach in Byron Bay before a quick trip back to the UK to celebrate lots of special events. We then relocated to Bondi at the end of August of course just like all the other Brits to continue our beach bum lifestyle.

If you weren’t a physio what would be your career?

As a kid I was slightly obsessed with the boy-band Busted. Why is this relevant? Well, they have a song called “Airhostess” and yes because of this it was a dream of mine to be a flight attendant. Unfortunately, this had to remain a dream when I released my growth spurt was never coming and I didn’t make it to the minimum height required. Luckily for you guys there isn’t a height requirement to become a physiotherapist.

 So come in for a session or simply to say hi to our awesome new member of the team!