A Visit at the National Gallery on St Kilda Road


Capital Physiotherapy welcomes clients from St Kilda, a multicultural riverside suburb that’s popular with professionals, singles, families, retirees, and hipsters to our South Yarra Physio Clinic.


Spending some time at the National Gallery of Victoria is something new to me. My kids have been begging a lot of times to visit the gallery but due to my hectic schedule at the clinic, it was difficult for me to find time. Last Thursday, I finally had the chance and so I surprised them and drove a few minutes to reach the place.

The National Gallery of Victoria is located in St Kilda Road which is where my clinic is also situated. Good thing we don’t need to travel long distance to reach the place.

I am not really artistically inclined but my girls are. They have a great appreciation to the arts and so I did my best to bring them there.

As we strolled around the place, paintings and various works of art caught our attention. All I can say that artists from Australia and some places around the globe are truly gifted and talented. Watching all these artworks will really blow you away. I myself was left I awe. A visit at the National Gallery is time well-spent. I can’t complaint, it was truly worth it. An array of exhibits are there to see and you can enter the gallery without any fee. One important note is that you are not allowed to bring food inside.

My kids were delighted to see those amazing paintings and abstract sculptures. They surely will have plenty of stories to tell their dad.

Knowing that the gallery on St Kilda Road is close to my clinic, we can drop by again anytime soon. I also suggest my staff to drop by so that they too can have a relaxing time after work viewing some art pieces.

I didn’t have to worry about my clinic last Thursday because my staff reported that patients were not that many. Today, Monday, was busy again. We had short breaks and long hours with patient’s rehab. I extended work in the office to do some reports as well. As my staff left, I knew some of them would visit the gallery as I recommended it’s free of charge.

Having a clinic with close proximity to major attractions and the CBD is really convenient. Reaching this places takes just a few minutes. I really love the location of my physiotherapy clinic. Despite the far distance of some of our patients, they exert the effort of reaching the clinic. Perhaps, this reflects the efficiency of our certified physiotherapists.

I’d like to see my clinic grow that is why expansion is a part of my future plans. I would be happy to be of service to more and more patients who want to improve on their condition without spending a fortune.

For those who want to know more about our services, you can check my page. In here you will learn about our physiotherapy techniques and be able to meet our certified staff. Wellness is our goal and each patient is treated professionally. It only takes ten minutes to reach my clinic from St Kilda Road.

A Great Way to Get Back Up from Sports Injuries

Injuries are, unfortunately, an expected consequence of sports. Even if you are the most careful athlete out there, the possibility of getting injured is still there especially if the game is getting intense.

Treating Injuries from Sports and Physiotherapy

Thanks to advancements in medicine, there are numerous ways to treat sports injuries these days, depending on the type of injury one has incurred. But even after the said injury has been treated, it is important to undergo some sort of rehabilitation so that the body part affected can function properly.

This is where physiotherapy comes in.

The Effects of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective methods of rehabilitation after sports injuries because this helps do the following:

  • Relieve pain at a faster rate
  • Improve any scarification in the tissue, even if that is in the muscle layer
  • Loosen and strengthen affected areas
  • Improve the function of the affected areas and
  • Get you back to whatever sport you play quicker

The Process of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is accomplished through different methods but like any medical procedure, it starts with diagnosis. This is so because each patient will have a different response to the treatment and the therapy which will follow. Everything must be personalized, from the exercises done to home remedies in managing pain, to ensure complete effectiveness.

Shared treatment approaches differ from one physiotherapist to another. But here are some of those which are used:

  • Exercise routines
  • Stretching techniques
  • Bio-mechanic analysis
  • Mobilization (massage) of affected body parts
  • Electrotherapy
  • Acupuncture
  • Patient education

Other Advantages of Physiotherapy

So many people agree that this rehabilitation method is a must-have for those who had sports injuries. But did you know that this has helped a lot of individuals in a variety of ways? Here are its other benefits:

  • Overall pain relief
  • Improvement after neurological diseases
  • Rehabilitation after cardiac problems
  • Helps with respiratory issues like asthma and other COPDs

Should You Go to a Physiotherapy Clinic?

Doing nothing right after the treatment of the injury is alright. You do need time to rest the affected part, after all, and let it heal. But it would really be better if you receive a physiotherapy treatment if your doctor gives you a go signal.

It’s alright also if you don’t. In a year or two, with slow and calculated movements, you will be able to regain the function of injured part of your body well. But if you’re an athlete or a sports lover, waiting a year or two is just too long. There will be lingering pain too, and that is always hard to deal with. Also, the injury might just recur. And that’s an even bigger challenge for anyone, even non-athletes.

Finding the Best Physiotherapist in Town

So give physiotherapy a try. Ask your doctor for a referral. Surely he is affiliated with a clinic or knows someone who could help you get back on your feet after whatever sports injury you have experienced. Alternatively, you can contact our physio on 0401 865 333 to have a consultation about your injury.

Why I Love Being a Prahran Physiotherapist

Why I Love Being a Prahran Physiotherapist

Capital Physiotherapy welcomes patients from Prahran, a sought after suburb south of our South Yarra Physio Clinic.


Working in the medical field has always been a dream of mine. Like any other kid, I have always wanted to be a doctor when I was young. Back then, I didn’t know there were ‘specialisations’. But when I learned about Physiotherapy after high school, I knew that this was my calling.

Some people misconstrue the idea of Physiotherapy, thinking that it’s just a special word for massage. True, we do ‘manipulate’ muscles, just like masseuses do. But the end result is so much more than just relieving stress and achieving rest and relaxation. It’s all about overall wellness.

It’s such an amazing job that I tell practically everyone – even my patients – to study it if they have the time and be one if they have the inclination to do so. I’d like to talk more about this, but we’ll save that for another article.

So I have been working as a physiotherapist for several years – the past two in Capital Physiotherapy. Because more and more people are getting interested with it (and because Capital Physiotherapy is one of the best in town); our days are filled with people asking for help with their problems.

Ask anyone working as a physiotherapist and he or she will tell you that leisurely lunches are completely out of the question. It’s a joke in our office but ‘getting a quick bite’ is a literal thing. We all eat sandwiches for lunch.

But here’s one thing which I really love about being a physiotherapist in our clinic: it’s so close to Prahran market. In fact, it’s just a few minutes’ drive from our workplace! I even get to do my groceries and visit the gym before I go home to cook dinner for my husband and kid before 6PM!

And if it’s close to Prahran market, it’s close to you too.

Working seven to eight hours a day attending to several patients can be really tiring. But when I get to see my patients improve, I find satisfaction and motivation to work more and perform better.

I love my work and I also love thee proximity between my clinic and the central business district. Lunch breaks can even be used to do run some errands such as shopping for grocery needs and even drop by a lovely coffee shop within the area. It is just a matter of managing time properly. There’s just plenty of advantages working in a place that is close to Prahran market.

Going back to the clinic, a long queue of patients are again waiting for me. That’s just the way it is to be a full-time physiotherapist. I have no regrets being in this industry.

If you need more information about Capital Physiotherapy, check out our website www.capitalphysiotherapy.com.au/prahran. If you have more questions or would like to set an appointment with me or any of the expert therapists in our team, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Our only goal is to provide the best Physiotherapy service to all those who need it, so we welcome all those who are interested in what we can offer.

The Best Prahran Hairdresser: A Lady Physiotherapist’s Best Friend

The Best Prahran Hairdresser: A Lady Physiotherapist’s Best Friend

Capital Physiotherapy welcomes patients from Prahran, a sought after suburb south of our South Yarra Physio Clinic.


Physiotherapy, lucky for us working in this field, is booming these days. More and more people are coming to us to find relief from pain caused by certain neurological and musculoskeletal disorders. Athletes ask for our help for rehabilitation after they have sustained injuries. Even those with acute back pains come to us, instead of going to a regular masseuse.

Take a look at our daily organizers and you will see how filled our 8 to 5 is with patients. Break time is at 12 to 1. But sometimes, we only get to eat lunch for fifteen minutes. We won’t just leave our clients alone just because it is 12:00 already and we’re hungry. In our clinic, patient is a priority.

Ask any good physiotherapist, or any health worker out there, and they will tell you how hectic our days are. As they say, in this industry there are no breaks that is why time management is the key.

You go to work in the morning possibly after taking your kids to school, then you attend to your patients, have lunch (or something to eat), go back to work, get off, then drive back home.

It’s a rigid schedule but that’s alright with me. As long as I get to visit my hairdresser every month – or when I need to look good for a date with my husband – I can live with it. It goes without saying that no matter how busy you are at work, still, there must be time for some beautifying.

Some of our clients do miss their appointments but we need to wait for them for a few minutes unless they gave us a call. Except for our very short lunch breaks, it is during these times when I get to go rush out and do other personal things – one of which is to visit my hairdresser.

But if there was no way to change that schedule or go around it at least, I would find another job and quit immediately. Call me vain but I need my hairdresser.

And I have the best too. Prahran Rare Earth is considered by most to be one of the best salons in the country. They have one in Melbourne, another in South Yarra and, lucky for me, one in Prahran. A salon near my workplace is such a convenience because I can just come in as a walk-in customer. Although I am used to setting an appointment via phone call, their friendly and courteous staff is always ready to accommodate me any time. It makes me more than happy.

I’m a lucky physiotherapist considering that our clinic is so close to Prahran. But there are more advantages besides this. As a physio in Prahran, I don’t just get to go to my favorite salon when I need that instant make-over to make me feel good, I get to do other chores which I need to do. This includes shopping in the market for fresh produce which I need for dinner and other things my family needs.

French Cuisine: My Gastronomic Delight in Prahran

French Cuisine: My Gastronomic Delight in Prahran

Capital Physiotherapy welcomes patients from Prahran, a sought after suburb south of our South Yarra Physio Clinic.


My love for French cuisine can never be forbidden even at my busiest days at the clinic. Lunch time is always a hearty feast for me because I get to eat at the best French restaurant in Prahran – Chez Olivier. Ten minutes away from my physio clinic, I make it a point to travel this distance just to satisfy my palate with sumptuous French dishes. As we all now French cuisine is branded as one of the best in the world. And when you enter the city of Paris, a chain of lovely restaurants will welcome you. The fact that Chez Olivier is here, why spend a fortune and go to Paris. Busy people like me can hardly have the time for traveling. Good thing, an excellent French resto is within reach. Not just an ordinary restaurant, but an upscale world class dining place.

As a physiotherapist, life can really be draining at times. Just imagine, I have to attend to 15-20 patients every single day. Treating one patient at a time is a great deal of work, which for me is exhausting at the same time regarding. Of course, I am thankful that they patronize our clinic services, however, I wish that I can add more time in one day and be of help to more. Seeing my patients improve day by day is such an achievement. This is why dining at Chez Olivier during lunch break is such a treat. As a hardworking therapist, I feel that a feast of sumptuous French is something that I deserve.

What do I love best at Chez Olivier in Prahran? Well, the restaurant ambience is so ‘Paris’, you get to feel the lovely city at any time of the day. I cannot resist the classics – pissaladerie with anchovies, baked Camembert, Moules Marinières, Pot-au-feu, Pan-seared Foie Gras and Blanquette de Veau. For dessert, there should always be creme Brulee and lemon Madeleines. Thinking about all these dishes before 12 noon makes me drool every time. No wonder French cuisine is labeled as one of the world’s finest.

When food comes to mind, it’s always Prahran’s Chez Olivier that I have to suggest. I even recommend this restaurant to my patients while performing therapy. It’s really funny because food is a common topic while treating my patients. Surprisingly, it is a pleasant topic to talk especially which helps establish rapport with patients. From desert to entrée, the stories doesn’t come to an end. Before we know it, the session is over.

I always tell my staff to spend lunch or dinner at Chez Olivier because the food is absolutely brilliant. Since, this Prahran restaurant is close to my physiotherapy clinic, they won’t be late catching up for 1pm clock-in. When late afternoon strikes, and my tired arms can no longer prepare dinner, I just have to dial their number and order food for me to pick up on my way home. Such a convenience and appetite is a hundred percent satisfied. Chez Olivier Prahran is a must try!

A Sip of My Favorite Cup at Market Lane Coffee in Prahran

A Sip of My Favorite Cup at Market Lane Coffee in Prahran

Capital Physiotherapy welcomes patients from Prahran, a sought after suburb south of our South Yarra Physio Clinic.


Nothing is more rewarding than to sit back and relax at ISIT Cafe after a busy day of work. I am just so glad there’s this place close to Prahran Market where I can take a sip of my favorite cup of espresso. I attended to fifteen patients today with varying body conditions. Some were follow-up patients while others are new ones. Working at the clinics means I have to give my best every time. I value my patients a lot that had my clinic renovated lately to give them a homey ambience. I am just so glad because they truly appreciate the new clinic we have now.

Every 4 o’clock in the afternoon, patients start to leave the clinic and this signals me to wrap-up the day’s work and of course, go to my favorite place – ISIT Cafe. Prahran is close to my physio clinic, it is located just ten minutes away from the coffee shop. The moment I enter the ISIT Cafe, my friend ‘barista’ already knows what I’m going to order. So, all I need to do is sit down and wait for her to serve me. The smell of brewing coffee alone is already so relaxing. I can’t wait to take a sip.

Although it is true that getting lots of caffeine can keep you awake and alert, the shop also sells de-caffeinated coffee for those who opt for non-caffeine beverages. At that, taste is equally fantastic.

While espresso is my favorite, ISIT Cafe also offers an array of house specialty. From cappuccino to decaf, ‘mocaccino’ to organic coffee every variant they serve is freshly brewed and prepared right after you make an order. They too have a line of special pastries which, for me, is a satisfaction to my sweet tooth. Pastry has always been a comfort food that is why ordering my favorite cupcakes and cinnamon bread makes my day complete. Forget about the sugar-rush and delight your tummy once in a while.

When winter season strikes, the place turn a little bit crowded because everyone want to warm themselves from the cold. And a cup of hot tea, coffee or chocolate is just the answer. At an instant, you can already feel the heat as you begin to sweat a bit. No wonder, people flock to this place during the cold. Actually, a lot of moms would drop by before they do their market shopping.

A busy day at the clinic can just be erased with a soothing cup of coffee. And this is the reason why I keep coming back. Another great thing is that, I can do my grocery shopping right after because across the coffee shop is the Prahran Market. Everything is just so convenient living in this vicinity.

If you are a coffee lover, I suggest you visit ISIT Cafe in Prahran soon. The smell of freshly-brewed coffee is so inviting that you couldn’t resist entering the store. Give yourself a break, order a nice cup of coffee. I like this place even better during winter time around June – August. Nice coffee in a cold weather, what more can you ask?

What a Day Looks Like for Me at the Fitness Gym

What a Day Looks Like for Me at the Fitness Gym

UPDATE: Our Bawlyn Physio Clinic has moved to Hawthorn


More and more individuals are hitting the gym for a variety of reasons. Some do it for health reasons while others do it for competition purposes. I have also met some individuals who are in the gym simply because their friends are there, too. I don’t necessarily care what their reasons for going to the gym are, as long as they are really motivated in getting in shape and doing the correct way of becoming physically fit, then that would definitely be fine.

Unfortunately, many of the individuals I’ve seen in a fitness session in Balywn community gym are not doing it correctly. In fact, I have seen quite a few people unable to return for their next several sessions because of an overstretched muscle or even a twisted ankle. Sometimes, I see people limping in pain because of muscle injuries. Some even attempt to lift weights that are not really appropriate for their level of strength and skill.

I am not a personal trainer but I am a physiotherapist so I should know when people are using their muscles the wrong way. I also know that pain is one of the most common complaints of people who injure their muscles because of wrong body mechanics. You can check out our physiotherapy services at https://www.capitalphysiotherapy.com.au/balwyn/ so you will have an idea of the kinds of sports and fitness injuries that we provide treatment and management for.

When I go for my fitness session at the gym, the very first thing I do is to get myself into the groove. I have to make sure that I have the correct mindset before I step inside the gym. I think this is crucial because not putting your heart and mind to what you are doing is simply not worth pursuing. So, I make sure that both my body and my mind is really in the zone for some fitness workout. To help me with that, I wear the correct fitness attire. I want to be able to move freely as I do my stretches, run on the treadmill, or even perform a variety of activities on the various fitness equipment. I also, bring with me my iPod as I find it a lot better to be in the groove with an upbeat music. Again, this is me so I don’t actually expect it will work for you, too.

Next, I always do warm-up exercises before I get into the actual fitness sessions. I flex my joints and stretch my muscles so I will be sure they are properly primed for the different exercises. Sometimes, I will take a jog with the treadmill or even take the stationary bike and have it on a leisurely stroll just to warm up my muscles. I also do jumping jacks just to get my heart ready. I do the warming-up for about 5 to 10 minutes before I know I am ready.

In my fitness exercises, I always go for variety. I know that cardiovascular training is important but it is also equally important to strengthen the muscles. So I make sure that I have both. I usually alternate my cardio training with my strength training on different days. This is to make sure that I don’t injure my muscles needlessly if I perform both of them in a single day. But, I have seen some people who perform about an hour of cardio training followed by 10 to 15 minutes of cooling down period before shifting into strength training. Unfortunately, this is not for me. Well, not yet anyway. That is why it is always best to seek the advice of a fitness trainer so you will know what kind of exercise regimen will work best for you.

During my workout sessions, I always make sure to rest in between exercises. A 2-minute break is often enough to allow my muscles to cool off a bit before I move on to the next exercise routine. This is to make sure that my body, especially my muscles, is getting all the oxygen it needs, lest it builds up lactic acid leading to severe muscle cramps. Besides, it’s a great way to try and breathe in as much air to replenish those in my lungs. I also don’t forget my water. As we work our muscles, they do tend to overheat. An overheating muscle is not so efficient in the performance of its physiologic processes. So, I make sure to have plenty of fresh, cool water.

Before I head out the gym, I make sure to cool-down first. If warming-up is important, cooling-down is equally important to make sure your muscles are ready to resume its normal physiologic functions. I often spend several minutes resting in the gym first right after cooling down before I head out the door.

This is how I complete my fitness sessions. The key is for you to understand what your body really needs. Listening to it is the next crucial thing you can do.


Capital Physiotherapy welcomes patients from Balwyn, a sought after suburb northeast of our Hawthorn Physio Clinic. Balwyn is popular with families bringing up children, as well as trendsetters, professionals, singles and retirees.

My First Trip to a Retirement Village

My First Trip to a Retirement Village

UPDATE: Our Bawlyn Physio Clinic has moved to Hawthorn


Today, there are many options for the retired and the elderly when it comes to community care and residential homes. Personally, I’ve been to many nursing homes and elderly health care facilities, but what really caught my attention and curiosity were retirement villages. Upon visiting my friend staying in a retirement village in Balwyn, I was impressed and astonished at how different it was from centers I’ve been to before.

It was quite obvious that space was of no problem to this community. Land and greeneries sprawled the area and it was definitely a sight to see. It has a tranquil garden setting that elderly people prefer and enjoy. The variety of leisurely activities available, such as swimming pools, private gardens, and a golf course, available to the residents also added to the ambiance of the place.

After the long chat I had with my friend, it was crystal clear that she is living a comfortable life in this retirement village. Other than having her personal space, she is still allowed to have the simple pleasures she had in her previous home. The management has no restrictions in pet ownership, thus she has her dog to accompany and entertain her all throughout the day. Likewise, there is no need to ask permission if she wants to visit her neighbours or take an early morning stroll in the vicinity. Clearly, the institution wants them to make the most out of their ageing while being in control of his/her own schedules and activities.

Because this village has fitness centers, restaurants, libraries, cafes, and lounges, within and nearby, residents can easily socialize with their fellow neighbours. My friend has introduced me to her own circle of friends that she became close with, thanks to movie nights held weekly. Thanks to administration, its residents were encouraged to become socially involved and engaged as they stay here.

Another commendable attribute I found in this vicinity is its convenience. It has food stalls, mini grocery stores, clinics, a chapel and a meditation area, and salons inside. My friend mentioned that she has no problem in accessing and buying her basic needs as everything is within reach. And if a place is too far to reach on foot, she just calls for the community transport service and in an instant, she is given a ride from Point A to Point B.

As I toured around the village, it was evident that the people are well-taken care of. Since most of them have their own nutritional needs and cases, their food specialists, chefs, and doctors, who cook and manage their daily meals. They can cater to both the preferences and health requirements of each person, at the same time, provide great dining experiences in their halls and rooms coupled with a home’s ambiance. As much as possible, chefs use natural and organic produce to ensure the well-being of their friends.

Aside from the nutritious food being served in their tables, the elderly also have 24/7 access to clinics with registered nurses, doctors, and therapists. As a therapist myself, I checked if they had the needed facilities that would suit numerous possible health complications and conditions. To my surprise, they had centers for physiotherapy, podiatry, diversional therapy, and rehabilitation. Plus, there are enough medical and health staff that can assist and check on their patients. I can really say that my friend is in good hands in this retirement village.

But even if they have all these amenities and doctors, not all of the physiotherapy services are offered here.  For this reason, my friend asked me to give her hand therapy exercises and routines.  Other than these, she requested for my weekly visit so I can perform manual approach treatments for her and her friends. Patients can click here to visit my clinic.

If ever an emergency happens, each person has a list of who to call in different situations. There are emergency alert units and telephones provided in each home and there are at least two pharmacies on site. Response is quick because of the systems created by the management.

Medicational monitoring and rounds are typical in this village. Housekeepers and cleaners are also offered to all, the same goes for gym trainers and exercise instructors. And what’s more, is that they have pastors and spiritual leaders who conduct worship and meditation sessions for them. I can’t help but say that I’m more than impressed by the medical, health, and personal services offered by this institution. No wonder my friend has no complaints and regrets when she transferred here in the village.

Overall, this experience was a great exposure of how care facilities and specialists like me handle and ensure the wellbeing of the elderly. This just shows that even if they are ageing, we can still give them what they need and want to live a happy life.


Capital Physiotherapy welcomes patients from Balwyn, a sought after suburb northeast of our Hawthorn Physio Clinic. Balwyn is popular with families bringing up children, as well as trendsetters, professionals, singles and retirees.

Eating Out After Work in Balwyn

Eating Out After Work in Balwyn

Working as a physiotherapist at Capital Physiotherapy can mean working a bit longer than those who work the usual 8-5 jobs. This is because a typical Balwyn physio clinic is open for business until 7 pm or maybe even longer. This way, we can also accommodate clients who work full-time and are unable to make earlier appointments.

Despite the long hours, I love working as a physiotherapist, because it allows me to help people through their problems with body pain, injury or even issues with their weight. I sincerely believe in promoting good health and exercise to the people in my community, which is why I entered this field as well.

However, as a young married woman, I am also not tied down to my career only. Part of what I promote is having a balanced life. That means, career, exercise and good social connections are key to making people healthy and happy. It is important for me to have time as well for myself to relax after work, and spend quality time with my husband. Indeed I am fortunate because working in the trendy and lively Balwyn makes this easy.

Not only is going out important to wind down after a long day of work and to catch up with the important people in my life but having access to great food that is also nutritious is vital. As a physiotherapist, I try to keep myself in shape and in perfect health as an example to my clients. Thankfully, just outside my office are lots of great choices of places to eat. In fact, finding the best restaurant in Balwyn can be tricky, as there are easily quite a few options out there.

Being one of Melbourne’s most exclusive areas, it has one of the best atmospheres for dining out, with the lush greens and beautiful architecture all around. For couples like me and my husband, it can be a romantic and relaxing environment for a date. The highlight for me, to be honest, is that some of them are just steps away from the clinic. Meaning, even if I have clients until closing time, I just need a few minutes to prepare myself and I am ready for a date close by. Now that’s work-life balance!

The variety of restaurants will have to be the second best point about Balwyn. Here you can find places that offer more nutritious options than a fast food restaurant. Therefore, finding delicious but also healthy food is easy. At the same time, many different cuisines are available for those who like to try new things. From authentic Asian food (Thai, Malaysian or Chinese, among others), there are some traditional Italian places for some comfort food as well.

From exotic dishes with different herbs and spices to more familiar pasta and pizza, Balwyn offers them. Each of these cuisines has healthier options for those who are watching their intake, and meet everybody’s taste or preference. In my time working at the physio clinic, I have never run out of new restaurants to try out with my husband. Having so many options does not just make it less boring for my palate, but it gives me a very good variety of food in my diet.

The next great point has to be the liveliness of the area. In fact, some restaurants do tend to get full on certain days, so getting a reservation is always a great idea. Many other people also flock to Balwyn to eat out so it can be busy, but in a good way, very full of life as well. As a young married woman, this is the perfect scene after a long day’s work. Meeting friends and catching up on each other’s lives is fun in Balwyn, relieving you of any stress from the office.

All of these points are important for me when deciding where to go out for dinner. Because of my line of work, my work hours are not the same as others’. However, this does not stop me from enjoying my personal time.

By having these restaurants just outside my office, I get to continue to do two things I enjoy the most. Conducting my physio sessions, helping clients recover from injuries or simply introducing exercise into their routine, is my life’s career. I sincerely derive joy helping them achieve their fitness goals. Therefore I cannot imagine leaving my job just because it hinders me from having a more active social life. Thankfully, Balwyn offers me, and at the same time, our clients, a way to go out afterward. It is just a matter of setting your priorities and managing your time Intelligently.

Capital Physiotherapy welcomes patients from Balwyn, a sought after suburb northeast of our Hawthorn Physio Clinic. Balwyn is popular with families bringing up children, as well as trendsetters, professionals, singles and retirees.

Going to a Winter Concert at Balwyn High School

Going to a Winter Concert at Balwyn High School

UPDATE: Our Bawlyn Physio Clinic has moved to Hawthorn


Winter is coming. Winter is usually associated with long nights of isolation and bouts of weariness. I am happy to say though that Melbourne sure has its ways of having fun this winter season. In particular, the awaited Balwyn High School Winter Concert is going to heat up the town with refreshing music, hearty food, and warm laughters. Anyone who is ready to groove, no matter what age, is welcomed. Teens, young twenties, mid-twenties, or even the forties will surely have room for this event. I, for one, am excited for the said winter concert. It’s going to be a long night of raw, undiluted merriment with a friend whose kid will be performing on stage. How cool can that be?

But of course, winter is still winter, a period where temperature hits really low that our bodies are not accustomed to. Albeit all the wonderful possibilities the winter concert may bring, I firmly believe that we all need to exercise precautionary measures. Much so, if we have youngsters and elderly companions en route to the concert or to any other winter event.

There are possibilities of getting auto immune diseases such as colds, and possibilities of getting injured. Reason why, being a physio in Balwyn myself, I shared some tips to my friend to safeguard our interests. Here are some of them:

First, we need to check the weather reports in advance. Get to know the temperature and the relative humidity. If it rains hails, then better just postpone any event. However if getting outside home cannot be helped, then the least that you can do is to take some safeguarding measures.

Always wear the appropriate clothes. Of course, this seems like an automatic response to winter. Nevertheless, I reiterate this for the sake of those who seem to overlook the simple task of putting on layers during winter. Frost bites are always a possibility under extremely cold conditions. So better cocoon your youngsters and elderly companions from head to foot with garments, gloves, mittens, boots, and any other protective piece you can find. More is always better when it comes to protection.

Bring hot liquids with you. A thermos of hot chocolate or water can bring comfort to your already trembling body. It adds extra warmth to your declining temperature.

Keep your skin moisturized. Winter makes your skin super dry because there is less humidity in the atmosphere. Reduce your shower time to keep you just clean enough without dehydrating your skin. Drinking plenty of water also helps, but definitely not cold water.

For those with existing medical conditions such as asthma and diabetes, you need to take extra care of your health. Asthma attacks will likely to be frequent due to the relatively dry air during winter. Diabetic people will also need to watch their food intake since the body finds it difficult to control glucose during winter season.

Winter also affects your psychological health. We all know the occurrence of seasonal affective disorder or SAD which causes our moods to be slightly down without any justifiable reason. It’s just the winter season, really. It causes a significant drop of serotonin in your body, hence you feel sad or lethargic.

Being a physiotherapist myself, I further reminded my friend to take extra care of her migraine too. Cold temperatures can cause a significant drop in the barometric pressure which consequently heads to headaches. Of course, drinking plenty of liquids and taking medicine can provide relief. But as a physio, I also recommend massaging the right pressure points in your temples, jawlines or necks. Through this, you are able to increase circulation around the areas that directly cause your headache. Little did you know that headaches have different sources and types. There’s tension headache, neck headache, and the medically-diagnosed migraine. Your physio can help you with the assessment of your headache, and can provide you with natural remedy.

Another thing you need to watch out for is the fact that low temperatures can also cause swelling in your joints and limbs. So, I advise those who suffer from arthritis to avoid being outdoors if possible. Or, consult your physio beforehand, because your activities may have to be limited. The winter concert may not be ideal for you at all. There’s also a better way to manage your joint and muscle pain without compromising enjoyment. How? How else, but by attending regular sessions with your physio.

People should now be informed that physiotherapy is not just a corrective therapy. It can very well be used as preventive maintenance for those with muscle and joint problems. Physiotherapists in Balwyn are even more capable to treating winter-related arthritis incidents because they know the adverse consequences of living in temperate zones. Consult your own physio so you know what pain relief methods suit you and what exercises you can undertake to manage your arthritis and other health condition.

Lastly and definitely the most important consideration when going out this winter, is to drive safely. Road accidents may be possible for several reasons: the roads are way too slippery; your knuckles may be painful or difficult to mobilize; and your vision may be blurred due to dry eyes (again as a result of dry winter air). If the worst thing happens, always consult a good physio after an injury, provided of course that your physician approved.

Even if it’s just a minor slip on the floor or a fall down the stairs, you will find that physiotherapy will always come handy, winter or not.

As for me and my friend, we’re more than ready to watch the concert where her child is performing. We’ve taken all the necessary precautions. We only have a slight problem though. Unfortunately, we’ve put on a little “winter weight” due to seasonal cravings and indulgences. Blame the temperature and the metabolism.


Capital Physiotherapy welcomes patients from Balwyn, a sought after suburb northeast of our Hawthorn Physio Clinic. Balwyn is popular with families bringing up children, as well as trendsetters, professionals, singles and retirees.