Is Physiotherapy for you? Kam’s approach!

Meet Kam, a dedicated Physiotherapist driven by a deep passion for movement and rehabilitation. With a wealth of experience spanning musculoskeletal injuries, comprehensive rehabilitation programs, and the specific needs of aged care, Kam adopts a holistic approach to empower clients in enhancing their mobility and overall quality of life. Holding a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) from the University of South Australia, Kam has further enriched their expertise through numerous qualifications including Gerontology Level 1 (APA), Pressure Care certification, Watson Headache Level 1, Trigger Point Dry Needling Level 1 (GEMt), extensive Pilates training, Shockwave Therapy, McKenzie Method for lumbar and cervical regions, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation, Cupping Therapy, and Kinesiology Taping.

Learn more about Kam in this Q & A!

How did you get into your chosen field?

I have always been passionate about health and wellness, and growing up, I was involved in sports and gym. After I suffered an injury during training, I worked with a physiotherapist who helped me recover. I was amazed by how much they could impact my recovery and how they used movement and exercise to heal the body, so was inspired to explore this as a career.

How long have you been an PT and what are your past experiences in allied health?

As a physiotherapist with three years of experience, I’ve gained valuable expertise in a wide range of areas. My skills include the assessment and management of musculoskeletal and sport injuries, motor vehicle accident (MVA) rehabilitation, return to work (RTW) programs, and Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) patient care. I also have experience in pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation, falls prevention strategies, and developing strength and conditioning programs for both general health and sports performance.

I enjoy working with clients individually through one-on-one exercise and Pilates sessions, as well as leading group Pilates classes. My experience extends to hydrotherapy and providing physiotherapy services within community and residential care settings. I utilise a variety of treatment techniques, including hands-on therapy, dry needling, and cupping, to best address my patients’ needs.

Furthermore, my ability to speak English, Cantonese, and Mandarin allows me to effectively communicate and build rapport with a diverse client base.

What is your favourite way to move your body?

Going to the gym to lift weights.

How do you help people achieve their goals?

I actively listen to my clients’ concerns, identify the main issue or prioritise the problems if they have multiple, clarifying the goals, provide individual tailored treatment plans, tracking progress. I also collaborate with other health professionals when needed to provide holistic service to achieve clients’ goals.

 What is one thing that you wish everyone knew about physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is not just for recovery after injury or surgery. It is also important for injury prevention and improving overall movement and quality of life.

 What’s the most rewarding client success story you’ve experienced?

I was working with a Return to Work (RTW) client for a year. She came in to see me after post knee arthroscopy with severe pain and limited range and movement. I combined both hands on treatment and rehab exercise to get her back to her usual working capacity prior to surgery. She was still experiencing pain in her knee, scared to move more and constantly thought her movements were going to injure her knee again. I provided her pain education, reassurance, slow exercise progression and coping strategies. Now she is not only getting better with no pain and no fear of moving, she has fallen in love with exercises. She can go for a walk with family and friends, and spend some quality time with them without getting put off by her pain or fear.

 What are you looking forward to most about working at this practice?

I am looking forward to using my clinical experience and skills, and collaborating with the allied health team – OT, EP and podiatrist to assist more clients to move better, stay independent and have good quality of life.

What’s your favourite way to stay active outside of work?

Going to the gym and hiking.

Thank you Kam for sharing!

To learn more about our Physiotherapy services and book a consult, click here: https://altairahealth.com.au/physio-services/physio-massage/