Physiofirst is a company dedicated to providing the best quality physiotherapy treatment available anywhere. Convenientlylocated within Niddrie Medical Centre and the newly completed Epping Medical and Specialist Centre we happily service many local sporting groups, athletes, arthritis sufferers and all other types of musculoskeletal pain.

Staff

Dale Turner Principal Physiotherapist

After studying a Bachelor of Health Sciences at LaTrobe University and then later completing a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at University of Melbourne, Dale followed his interest in private practice physiotherapy. After learning from previous mentors he opened Physiofirst in 2006, employing the principles the company continues to stand by today - your first choice in physiotherapy. The dedication to this promise comes from friendly attentive therapists who use a complete hands on approach to thoroughly solve your musculoskeletal issues. Once a keen triathlete, Dale continues to thrive on treating athletes of all levels and also has a special interest in treating neck related headache. He also continues to develop the company's corporate strategy, to develop the best health and wellness strategies to improve the health and safety of any company's employees.

Melissa Conlin Senior Associate Physiotherapist

Melissa has completed both the Bachelor of Physiotherapy (with honours) and the Bachelor of Human Biology. Her vast experience with many patient groups at the Northern Hospital has helped Melissa become a Senior Associate Physiotherapist at Physiofirst. Melissa continues to thrive on the challenges of private practice and is equally happy treating the chronic arthritic patient to fit, young athletes.

Cara Richmond Physiotherapist

Cara graduated from La Trobe University with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy and commenced working at Physiofirst in January 2011. Whilst studying Cara, worked as a sports trainer with the Western Jets and Oak Park Football Club where she further developed her skills in the area of Sports Physiotherapy. Cara also has qualifications in Clinical Pilates and runs all of the Clinical Pilates classes at Physiofirst.

Jack Thai Associate Physiotherapist

Jack graduated from the University of Adelaide in 2009 with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy. After moving to melbourne and working in community health, Jack has developed strong clinical skills within private practice as an Associate Physiotherapist with Physiofirst. Jack enjoys Jujitsu away from the clinic and is well placed to treat any athlete from a martial arts background. Jack also performs dry needling where necessary for his patients, adding further scope to his clinical ability.

Laurie McCormack Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist

Laurie McCormack graduated in physiotherapy in 1988, and then completed a Masters degree at Melbourne University in 2000. He has completed formal training in task analysis and pre-employment functional assessments. Laurie has had over 20 years experience as a clinical physiotherapist in assessing, diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal and sports injuries. The key skills developed in this time include detailed analysis of movement performance. Working clinically at Physiofirst, Laurie also conducts our pre employment screening onsite as Work Function Victoria. Please contact us for Laurie's details if you require pre employment screening.

Paul Podiatrist

Paul is an experienced podiatrist who also owns Bundoora Foot Clinic, in conjunction with Epping General and Sports Podiatry (within Physiofirst Epping). Paul has performed research into the radiographic features of bunions at LaTrobe University and is perfectly placed to treat any concerns of the foot and lower limb. He continues to pursue his passion of becoming a Podiatric Surgeon and regularly undertakes further training to achieve this goal. Paul and Epping General and Sports Podiatry are a great addition to Physiofirst as he can prescribe custom orthotics and recommend the best shoe type for any active person or athlete.

The key differences between Physiofirst and other types of therapists include: 

Addressing the causes of injury and not just treating the symptoms

Most people, athletes or not, often have stresses on their body that can affect a number of joints and muscles. By identifying specific problem areas we can not only help the stiff and painful symptoms of a client but also stop the problem from recurring. We treat the cause of the injury to reduce these symptoms and improve overall function.

Extended appointment times

We actually enjoy spending more time with clients to better understand their injury or condition and what treatment works best for them. This enhances our ability to address the real cause of any problem and not just treat the symptoms.

Complete hands on therapy

All appointments are one on one time with the therapist. You get the whole allocated time for the type of physiotherapy that works! Hands on treatment, perfect for recovery or maintenance, including massage, muscle stretching, joint mobilisation and manipulation in differing combinations specific to your problem. NO machines, NO being left alone to do something you could do at home, NO shortcuts.

Promotion of self management

Who wants to go to a therapist for the rest of their life? Sure, some people will benefit from ongoing treatment but there is an alternative. If you can manage your problem with specialised exercises that stretch and strengthen tight and weak areas we will tell you. A program can be easily designed to help you self manage your injury and only seek treatment when necessary.

Extended operating hours

Everybody is busy. Trying to juggle life’s commitments and have treatment during business hours often can’t be done. That’s why we have morning appointments from 8am, evening appointments till 7pm and open every Saturday for your convenience.