PROFESSIONAL OVERVIEW
Cara graduated from the University of South Australia in 2017 and currently works as a musculoskeletal physiotherapist across Christchurch and Lilliput clinics. Cara treats everyday aches and pains using a combination of hands-on manual therapy, acupuncture and shockwave therapy, alongside personalised and realistic exercise programmes to support recovery at home. As a certified APPI Matwork Pilates instructor, she frequently incorporates Pilates-based exercises, helping people return to the daily routines and activities that matter most to them.
CLINICAL SKILL SET
Cara appreciates that physiotherapy can feel unfamiliar or even daunting for some people, so she strives to create a welcoming and supportive space where people feel listened to and comfortable. She values helping people to understand their pain, regain confidence in movement, and return to the activities they enjoy.
Her treatment typically includes:
- Hands on manual therapy including joint mobilisation and soft tissue techniques
- Acupuncture and dry needling for musculoskeletal conditions
- Shockwave therapy
- Prescription of realistic exercises
- Pilates based rehabilitation
SPECIALIST AREAS
Cara has particular interests in:
- Everyday musculoskeletal injuries
- Posture related pain
- Using acupuncture and dry needling to support recovery
- Pilates based functional rehabilitation
CLINICAL EXPERTISE
Cara combines evidence based physiotherapy with a patient centred, compassionate approach. She carefully assesses the causes of pain and movement issues, creating treatment plans tailored to each person’s needs. Her interventions include manual therapy, acupuncture, shockwave therapy, targeted exercises, and Pilates based rehab to improve strength, stability, and confidence. She places strong emphasis on patient education, helping people feel confident to manage their conditions and get back to their daily routines.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia. Graduated 2017.
- Previously worked in MSK in a private clinic in Somerset.
- Currently practising between Christchurch and Lilliput clinics at Total Therapy.
RESEARCH & EVIDENCE BASED PRACTICE
Cara co-authored a systematic review titled “Systematic Review of the Addition of Hip Strengthening Exercises for Adults with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome” published in The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. She integrates current evidence, clinical guidelines, and reflective practice into her treatments, while participating in audits and quality-improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes.
OUTSIDE THE CLINIC
Outside of work Cara loves spending time outdoors and keeping active. She also enjoys travelling and spending time with family.
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
- Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)
- Heath and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
- Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP)
- Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute (APPI)