This page is to give you an understanding of what you can expect and how to prepare for your first appointment with one of our knowledgable and friendly physiotherapist at RX Physiotherapy. 

 

How to get here: Click the link for direction to our clinic based in Lake Illawarra as part of Hustle Hut Health

Unit 1/35 Shellharbour Road 

 

Parking: We have ample parking onsite, just make sure to use the entry before our pink flags. If this space is full you can always park in Warilla Grove car park, which is a short 200m walk.

 

Where to enter: Entry to our reception is located facing the highway, just look for the RX decal

 

Who will you meet: You will be greeted by one of our reception staff. They will give you a details form if you have not already filled in the online version. They will also let your physiotherapist know you have arrived.

 

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What to bring: If you have any hardcopy scans this would be helpful but we can also access most digital versions in the private sector.

What to wear: This is specific to the area you want to have treated. For ankles, wrists, knees and elbows wear shorts/short sleeve shirt to allow ease of access.

For females needing shoulder treatment any garment you feel comfortable wearing that allows access to the shoulder will be fine. If you need work on your hip/s please wear loose fitting but comfortable shorts and underwear. We also have many towels and beds sheets available to cover you appropriately.

Initial Consult

History Taking: We start off with a friendly chat about what areas of your body are troubling you and how they affect you. This can be quite in depth as we want to get a detailed story so right from the get go we can nail our treatment.

Physical Testing: We have a multitude of tests we can perform to not only find out your starting point but to also get a diagnosis. This can look like how far you can reach, how strong certain muscles are in specific positions and many more.

Treatment: Once again this will look very different based on your presentation. Some methods include massage, joint mobilisation, tape and dry needling (optional).

Rehab Planning: At this point we should be in slightly less pain and this is a great start. Long term a structured rehab plan using exercises specific to your injury and goals will be implemented. This is also where your physio will discuss the best frequency of follow up appointments and what the long term strategy will look like.

Follow Up Consults

Our follow up appointments will change based on where you are on your rehab journey. 

Initially they will involve a lot of re-testing and hands on treatment. They will soon become more exercise focused when ready as you reach closer to your pre-injury capacity and beyond.

RX Physiotherapy, a key part of HUSTLE HUT HEALTH.

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Dr. April Patterson

Physiotherapist

Dr. April Patterson graduated from Bond University with a Doctor of Physiotherapy degree. April established RX Physiotherapy in 2019, where she has been dedicated to providing top-notch care to her patients.

Dr. April Patterson has a unique perspective on physiotherapy as she has personally experienced conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, hypermobility, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues. Her own struggles with these conditions have fueled her passion for understanding and treating them, allowing her to empathize with her patients on a deeper level. Dr. April Patterson is dedicated to tailoring treatments to meet the unique needs of each individual under her care.

With a commitment to ongoing professional development, Dr. April Patterson stays abreast of the latest advancements in physiotherapy, ensuring that her patients receive the most effective and evidence-based treatments available. Her holistic approach to patient care encompasses not only physical rehabilitation but also focuses on empowering individuals to manage and prevent further issues.

In her spare time you can find her hitting the gym, cooking or spending time with her two dachshund children and partner.

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Mr Reece Nikitaras

Physiotherapist

Reece Nikitaras is passionate about optimising human movement and enhancing quality of life through rehabilitation and therapeutic techniques. His interest in physiotherapy stems from a deep-seated desire to help individuals overcome physical challenges and achieve their full potential.

One of his particular areas of interest is knee rehabilitation, with a profound understanding of knee biomechanics and the intricate nature of knee injuries, Reece is dedicated to implementing specialised interventions aimed at optimizing recovery and improving function in patients with knee-related issues.

Reece is also enthusiastic about learning new approaches and staying updated with the latest advancement in physiotherapy research and techniques to be able to provide high quality care to all patients.

In his spare time, Reece enjoys travelling, going to the beach and playing a round of golf.

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Ms. Laura Flemming

Physiotherapist

Laura has been a dedicated physiotherapist for over five years, beginning her career at Wollongong Hospital before moving to Sydney, where she broadened her skills in a private practice and community setting. In this time she obtained her certification as a Level 1 Strength and Conditioning coach. Additionally, she supported junior representative soccer teams in the St George area. Now based in the Illawarra, she is looking forward to supporting new patients.

Laura’s approach centers on enhancing her patients’ quality of life through understanding their goals and intentions and providing effective pain management, manual therapy, patient education, strength training, and personalised exercise programs. Her experience includes managing acute and chronic injuries, strength and endurance training, post-operative rehabilitation, falls prevention, and neurological rehabilitation for conditions including stroke and brain injury. She implements evidence-based treatments and utilises a holistic approach aimed at empowering individuals with injury management and prevention.

In her free time, Laura can be found hiking up mountains, writing music, playing soccer, or training for the occasional triathlon or running event.

Ms. Paige Fittler

Physiotherapist

Paige is a recent graduate from the University of Canberra. She is committed to providing specialised care that supports individuals in maintaining strength, mobility, and overall health, helping them overcome obstacles and achieve their personal health goals. She is known for building a strong rapport with patients and has experience in both private and public sectors including musculoskeletal, neurological and rehab settings. 

Paige is committed to evidence-based practice, ensuring her patients receive the most optimal and up to date care to reach their full potential. Paige is dedicated in developing tailored treatment plans that are specific to each patient’s unique needs and goals through individualised rehabilitation and physiotherapy techniques. 

Outside of her work, Paige enjoys spending time at the beach, going for a run, or winding down with a movie and a bowl of popcorn.