Hip: FAI - a Condition That Matters

November 23, 2016 by Sian Smale

This year the Australian Physiotherapy Association hosted Joanne Kemp as the keynote speaker for the end of year breakfast. Joanne is a passionate physiotherapist and researcher in the field of femoroacetabular impingement and hip osteoarthritis. Joanne presented on clinical features of FAI, research updates and the key role that physios play in patient rehabilitation. Joanne’s lecture gave me a new positive perspective on this condition and broadened my knowledge about the role of physiotherapy and treatment options outside of surgery.

Pathophysiology & Symptomology of Migraine Headaches

November 10, 2016 by Sian Smale

I'm sure you are all aware that different headache types exist as different clinical entities, but do you know the distinct features of each that aid in our differential diagnosis? Do you know what mechanisms underlie the headache felt in a migraine and what an aura actually is?

The purpose for this blog is to delve deeper into the specifics of primary headaches such as migraine with and without aura and TTH with the aim of better differentiating them from other headache types and recognising red flags.

Physical Therapy in California Part 3 - the National Physical Therapy Exam

November 03, 2016 by Sian Smale

I am so thrilled to share the news that I have passed the NPTE and can now begin work in California. This blog outlines the timeline and preparation for the national physical therapy exam.

Concussion & Dr Jessica Schwartz

October 18, 2016 by Sian Smale

Recently I listed to a two-part podcast hosted by Therapy Insiders Podcast on the discussion of concussion with guest speaker Dr. Jessica Schwartz. It was a brilliant discussion about the current updates on the topic of discussion and I thoroughly enjoyed hearing about Dr. Schwartz's personal experience with concussion, profession experience and current role in managing concussion injuries and promoting concussion awareness world wide.

Neurodynamic Solutions for the Lower Quadrant

October 11, 2016 by Sian Smale

In September I attended the lower quadrant course run by Michael Shacklock in LA. This course covered well known tests such as the slump test, straight leg raise and it’s variations. It was great to review these tests, improve my specificity of handling and then apply the results to treatment scenarios. The aim of this blog is to share a few of the many tips that I took away from the course.

Cervical Motor Control Part 4 - Rehabilitation Principles

October 04, 2016 by Sian Smale

The forth and final blog covers the rehabilitation principles for retraining cervical motor control. Aside from discussing the initial two phases of rehab (activation patterns & coordination) we also compare the final stages of training for an office working, painter and athlete based on their functional requirements.