Gloria, an attentive and compassionate physiotherapist, found her calling in this field through a deeply personal experience with her mother’s spinal issues. Having witnessed her mother’s ordeal, Gloria observed her mother being on the verge of undergoing unnecessary major spinal surgery due to a lack of evidence-based practice from her medical team. Gloria’s perspective changed when her mother’s new physiotherapist introduced the option of conservative management. Now, Gloria’s mum is able to enjoy pain-free weightlifting, and Gloria draws inspiration from her mother’s remarkable journey of recovery. Having observed firsthand the frustration and despair that patients and their loved ones often encounter along their path to healing, Gloria has a deep desire to utilise her skills to help others improve their quality of life. In 2021, Gloria successfully attained her Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) from the University of Queensland. Throughout her academic journey, Gloria consistently exhibited an insatiable thirst for knowledge, propelling her towards the commencement of her professional career in both a public hospital and a prestigious private musculoskeletal practice simultaneously. This unique opportunity provided Gloria with a platform to acquire a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge across various domains of physiotherapy. Her experiences encompassed diverse specialisations, including musculoskeletal therapy, sports rehabilitation, women’s health, cardiorespiratory care, orthopedics, pre- and post-surgical support, and geriatric physiotherapy. Working in both the public and private sectors, Gloria encountered a common issue: a significant lack of awareness, knowledge, and specialised skills in a crucial area – hypermobility. It came as a surprise and disappointment to Gloria that regular, qualified physiotherapists employed in hospitals or general private practices had little to offer to individuals grappling with hypermobility. Dedicated to her professional development, Gloria recognises the significance of remaining well-informed about the latest research. She takes proactive measures by continuing to engage in courses and workshops and acquired various accreditations, such as:

• Q Pilates – Mat and Reformer Pilates (Jan 2022)
• CPD Health – Dry Needling (Aug 2022)
• Sharon Hennessey – Hypermobility for Physiotherapists: Its Types and Its Management (July 2023)
• SP Dry Needling Course (Jörgen Forsberg) – Advanced Neuromuscular Dry Needling techniques including Cupping, Guah Sha, and Electro Dry Needling (March 2024)
• Treatment of the Pelvis & Lumbar Spine Level 1: An Introduction to Articular & Muscle Energy Techniques (June 2024)

Over the past six months alone, Gloria has provided specialised care to almost 100 clients with hypermobility. To continue enriching her extensive knowledge and experience in this area, Gloria will be attending the EDS ECHO Multidisciplinary Team Practice from April – October 2024. She will also continue to participate in regular training and mentoring sessions with Not Just Bendy’s Principal Physiotherapist, Sharon Hennessey. Believing that one never fully understands something until it’s experienced firsthand, Gloria aspires to learn a new skill or physical activity each year, to better learn the tasks and activities that her clients struggle with. This year, she has taken on pole dancing, further expanding her understanding of movement and strength while embracing new challenges. Gloria’s warm personality and strong work ethic, combined with evidence-based practice and a patient-centred approach, ensure that each individual feels heard, understood, and supported throughout their journey. Outside of work, you’ll find Gloria either in the gym or at a restaurant with a nice cup of coffee. Please contact us to make an appointment with Gloria.