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Posted by philipwoodphysio in General on February 20th, 2026
What to expect from your physio session
Been to the physiotherapist a million times before, or thinking about coming in for the first time? Either way, starting (or restarting) physio often brings up the same quiet questions. What will we focus on this time? Will it hurt? And will this actually fit around real life?
If you are unsure whether now is the right moment to book, or you are weighing it up on behalf of someone else, you can always call Philip Wood Physiotherapy on 02 9838 3030 to talk things through.
A physiotherapy session is not about being pushed through pain or handed a generic exercise sheet. It is about understanding what your body needs right now and working from there.
Even if physiotherapy feels familiar, the session always begins with a conversation. Your physiotherapist will ask what has changed, what your symptoms feel like day to day, and how the issue is affecting work, activity, sleep, or mood.
This is especially important for people who tend to downplay things or say, “It’s probably nothing.” Small details often explain why something is lingering or flaring, and they help shape treatment in a way that actually fits your life.
Assessment focuses on how you move, not on catching you out. This might include watching you walk or lift, checking joint movement, testing strength, or gently feeling how tissues respond.
You will not be forced into painful positions or asked to push through discomfort to prove a point. Everything stays within your current limits, and feedback is encouraged throughout. The goal is to understand what is contributing to the problem, not just where it hurts.
If treatment begins in the first session, it is tailored to how your body presents on the day. Hands-on techniques may help settle irritation or improve movement, alongside simple exercises that feel achievable rather than overwhelming.
Physiotherapy is not about fixing everything in one appointment. Early sessions aim to reduce uncertainty, restore confidence in movement, and give you clarity around what is safe to do and what may need adjusting for now.
A big part of physiotherapy involves explaining what is likely going on and what recovery may look like. Understanding why something hurts, and why certain movements help, often reduces anxiety more than any technique.
This is often the part that reassures hesitant friends or relatives. Physiotherapy supports everyday life, rather than putting it on hold.
Whether you are booking for yourself or gently encouraging someone else to come along, physiotherapy is about staying capable, confident, and independent.
If it feels like the right time, call Philip Wood on 02 9838 3030 to book an appointment.
Posted by philipwoodphysio in General on February 6th, 2026
(The stages of physiotherapy rehabilitation)
It usually starts innocently enough. One awkward step, one rushed lift, one “I’ll be fine” moment and suddenly tying your shoelaces feels like a competitive sport. If that sounds familiar, it may be time to call us here at Philip Wood Physiotherapy on 02 9838 3030 to book an assessment with one of our physiotherapists.
Physiotherapy rehabilitation is not about rushing you back to normal at all costs. It is a structured, staged process that supports healing, restores movement, and helps reduce the risk of the same injury returning. At the same time, we know life does not pause just because you are injured. You still need to get dressed, get to work, look after family, and yes, tie your shoes. Physiotherapy aims to support you through what you have to do, while guiding your recovery in a way that respects tissue healing and reduces the risk of further setback.
While every injury and every person is different, most physiotherapy programs move through four key phases.
The first phase of rehabilitation focuses on managing inflammation and protecting the injured tissue. Inflammation is not the enemy. It is a normal physiological response that brings blood flow, nutrients, and immune cells to the area. Problems arise when inflammation lingers or is overloaded too early.
At this stage, physiotherapy aims to reduce excessive swelling and pain while maintaining as much safe movement as possible. This may include advice on relative rest, gentle mobility exercises, and strategies to avoid aggravating the injury. Manual therapy techniques may be used to support surrounding tissues and improve comfort.
Education plays a major role here. Understanding what to avoid and what remains safe helps prevent fear-based movement, which can slow recovery.
As pain settles and tissues begin to repair, the focus shifts toward restoring controlled movement. Collagen fibres within muscles, tendons, and ligaments need appropriate loading to align properly. Too little movement can lead to stiffness and weakness. Too much, too soon may disrupt healing.
Physiotherapy during this phase introduces targeted exercises designed to improve range of motion and gently reintroduce load. These exercises are often slower and more controlled than people expect. Quality of movement matters more than intensity.
Manual therapy may still be used to address joint stiffness or muscle guarding, but exercise becomes increasingly central. This phase lays the foundation for strength and function later on.
This is where rehabilitation often feels more familiar. Strengthening aims to restore the injured area’s ability to tolerate everyday demands, whether that is work tasks, sport, or simply getting through the day without pain.
Exercises become progressively more challenging and more specific to your goals. This might include resistance training, balance work, or functional movements that mirror real-life activities. Physiotherapists carefully progress load to encourage tissue adaptation without overload.
Importantly, strengthening rarely focuses on the injured area alone. Weakness or poor control elsewhere in the body often contributes to injury in the first place. Addressing these contributing factors helps improve overall movement efficiency.
Rehabilitation does not end when pain disappears. The final stage focuses on maintaining gains, building confidence, and reducing the risk of re-injury.
Physiotherapists help you transition from structured rehab to independent movement, whether that is returning to sport, work, or recreational activity. This stage may include advice on training progression, recovery strategies, and early warning signs to watch for.
Preventative physiotherapy aims to support long-term resilience rather than short-term fixes. Understanding how your body responds to load empowers you to manage future flare-ups more effectively.
Skipping stages or rushing recovery often leads to setbacks. Physiotherapy works to respect tissue healing timelines while progressively restoring strength, mobility, and confidence.
If you are moving from injury toward independence, or feel stuck somewhere along the way, call Philip Wood Physiotherapy on 02 9838 3030 to book an appointment with one of our physiotherapists.
Posted by philipwoodphysio in General on January 24th, 2026
If you’re an athlete or just someone who loves staying active, you’ll know that sport isn’t all glory and goal scoring moments – sometimes it’s tight hamstrings, rolled ankles, and shoulders that suddenly feel like they’ve retired early. The good news? Many of the most common sports injuries respond well to early assessment and structured rehabilitation with our physiotherapists. So give us a call on 02 9838 3030. In the meantime, let’s learn more about the most common injuries and what we can do about them.
Below are three injuries we see most frequently in the clinic, and how physiotherapy works to manage them safely and effectively.
Hamstring strains often strike during sprinting, football, netball, and any activity that demands sudden acceleration. A strain simply means the muscle fibres have overstretched or torn to some degree, usually at high speed or when fatigue sets in.
Typical symptoms include a sharp pain at the back of the thigh, difficulty fully straightening the leg, and reduced stride power.
How physiotherapy helps:
We’ll start by assessing the severity of the strain, identifying whether the issue lies in the muscle belly, tendon, or the junction between the two. Early management may involve offloading, gentle range of movement work, and techniques to support tissue healing. As symptoms settle, rehabilitation focuses on progressive loading, eccentric strengthening, and restoring sprint mechanics. This structured approach aims to reduce the risk of re-injury – which is high when hamstring strains aren’t fully rehabilitated.
Ankle sprains, especially those involving the lateral ligaments, are one of the most common reasons active people find themselves temporarily sidelined. They typically occur after landing awkwardly, stepping on an uneven surface, or changing direction quickly.
Typical symptoms include swelling, bruising, ankle instability, and pain when weight-bearing.
How physiotherapy helps:
Our physiotherapists assess which ligaments are affected and whether the sprain is mild, moderate, or more severe. Early treatment may include swelling management, taping or bracing, and gentle mobility work. As recovery progresses, rehab shifts towards strengthening the peroneal muscles, improving balance and proprioception, and rebuilding confidence in the ankle. Targeted stability training is crucial – lingering instability is what leads many people to repeat sprains, which physiotherapy aims to help prevent.
Shoulder problems are common in swimmers, tennis players, weight-lifters, and overhead athletes. These may involve the rotator cuff, the biceps tendon, or the structures that help stabilise the shoulder blade (scapula).
Typical symptoms include pain with lifting or reaching overhead, weakness, and reduced range of motion.
How physiotherapy helps:
Our team will assess which structures are irritated or overloaded and look closely at biomechanics – particularly how the shoulder blade moves during sport-specific tasks. Treatment may include manual therapy, strengthening the rotator cuff, improving scapular control, and adjusting training loads to allow irritated tissues to settle. Restoring coordinated movement between the shoulder blade and arm is often the key to reducing symptoms and supporting long-term performance.
If you’re experiencing pain that limits movement, keeps returning, or isn’t improving over a few days, our physiotherapists can assess the injury, explain what’s going on, and guide a personalised rehabilitation plan. Early management not only supports recovery but also reduces the risk of long-term weakness or recurrence.
Want to keep moving confidently? Our physio team is here to help. Call Philip Wood Physiotherapy on 02 9838 3030 to make an appointment. And while we’ve got you, why not follow us on social media for more fascinating physio facts?
Posted by philipwoodphysio in General on January 12th, 2026
3 Simple Physio Exercises You Can Do at Home
If you’d like to loosen up, improve your mobility, or settle a few stubborn aches, call Philip Wood Physiotherapy on 02 9838 3030 to book an assessment with our physiotherapists. In the meantime, here are three simple exercises often recommended by physiotherapists that you can try at home which may help your body move more comfortably.
Staying mobile doesn’t always require equipment, long gym sessions, or complicated routines. In fact, some of the most effective exercises are easy to learn, joint-friendly, and take less than five minutes. The three movements below are favourites we often teach in the clinic because they target common problem areas: the spine, hips, and shoulders.
AKA the Cat – Cow, this one’s for you if your back feels about as bendy as a baguette!! This gentle movement helps ease stiffness along the entire spine – especially helpful if you spend long hours sitting or working at a desk.
How to do it:
Start on all fours with your hands under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Slowly arch your back upwards like an angry cat, tucking your chin. Then reverse the movement: lower your stomach towards the floor as you lift your chest and tailbone. Move smoothly through 10–15 repetitions, focusing on slow, controlled motion.
Why physios like it:
It encourages segmental spinal movement, increases circulation to the deep back muscles, and helps reduce that “compressed” feeling many people develop after prolonged sitting.
Perfect if your hips have been sitting so long they’re practically paying rent! Tight hip flexors are common in runners, cyclists, and desk workers. Stretching these muscles may help relieve lower-back discomfort and improve walking and running mechanics.
How to do it:
Kneel on one knee with the other foot in front, as though you’re preparing to propose to your favourite running shoe. Gently shift your weight forward until you feel a stretch at the front of the hip on the kneeling side. Keep your torso upright and avoid arching your lower back. Hold for 20–30 seconds and repeat twice on each side.
Why physios like it:
It targets the iliopsoas and rectus femoris – two muscles that frequently become short or stiff – helping restore hip extension, which is essential for efficient gait and lower-limb power.
Ideal when your posture has quietly slid into ‘question mark’ territory.
When you’re dealing with desk-related tension or postural fatigue, this simple activation exercise strengthens the muscles that support and stabilise the shoulder blades.
How to do it:
Sit or stand tall. Gently draw your shoulder blades back and down, as though you’re trying to tuck them into your back pockets. Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 10–15 times, keeping your neck relaxed.
Why physios like it:
It activates the lower trapezius and rhomboids, promoting better shoulder mechanics and reducing strain through the neck and upper back.
If you’d like personalised guidance or a structured rehabilitation plan, call Philip Wood Physiotherapy on 02 9838 3030 to book an appointment with our physiotherapists.
Posted by philipwoodphysio in General on December 12th, 2025
Regaining Shoulder Strength
You were reaching up to grab something from the top shelf — perhaps a cereal box, perhaps glory – when your shoulder had other ideas. That sudden, sharp twinge has now turned everyday actions like brushing your hair or buckling your seatbelt into a full-body negotiation. Shoulder pain like this often points to a rotator cuff injury, one of the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy.
If that sounds familiar, call Philip Wood Physiotherapy on 02 9838 3030 to make an appointment. In the meantime, read on to learn how physiotherapy aims to restore shoulder strength, function, and confidence.
Understanding the rotator cuff
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons – the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis – that stabilise the shoulder joint (glenohumeral joint) and control its impressive range of motion. These muscles keep the head of the humerus centred in the shallow socket of the scapula (glenoid fossa) as you lift, reach, or rotate your arm.
Injuries occur through repetitive overhead activity, sudden trauma, or age-related tendon changes. Early issues may involve inflammation or microtears (tendinopathy), while more severe cases lead to partial or complete tendon rupture.
According to Physio-Pedia, the supraspinatus tendon is most often affected because of its position beneath the bony acromion, a space where friction and compression easily occur. Over time, poor posture, weak stabilisers, and shoulder impingement can all add to the strain.
Signs and symptoms
Rotator cuff injuries can range from mild irritation to severe tears, but common symptoms include:
Left untreated, these symptoms may progress, causing compensations in surrounding muscles such as the deltoid or trapezius and leading to more complex movement problems.
How physiotherapy may help
Physiotherapy is central to both conservative management and post-surgical rehabilitation. Evidence shows that targeted physiotherapy programs may help reduce pain, restore shoulder mechanics, and prevent recurrence by addressing strength deficits, mobility, and coordination.
Manual therapy and mobilisation
Physiotherapists use hands-on techniques like joint mobilisation, soft tissue release, and scapular mobilisation to improve movement and ease pain. These aim to:
Mobilising both the glenohumeral and scapulothoracic joints can help reduce stiffness, while thoracic spine work supports better shoulder blade positioning.
Targeted exercise therapy
Once pain allows, strengthening and control become the focus. Research supports exercise as one of the most effective treatments for rotator cuff injuries. Key elements include:
Restoring coordination between the rotator cuff and scapular muscles – especially the lower trapezius and serratus anterior – is essential for smooth, pain-free motion.
Postural correction and movement retraining
Posture plays a vital role in shoulder health. Rounded shoulders or thoracic stiffness can narrow the subacromial space, increasing irritation. Physiotherapists assess and correct these patterns through targeted strengthening and mobility work, alongside ergonomic advice to reduce aggravation during daily tasks.
Prevention and long-term shoulder health
Once strength and mobility return, prevention becomes key. Physiotherapy focuses on maintaining shoulder resilience through continued strengthening, flexibility work, and proper warm-ups before activity. Good posture and regular exercise help preserve tendon health and reduce the risk of future tears.
Even for those with age-related degeneration, consistent conditioning can help maintain function and independence.
When surgery is necessary
In cases of large or full-thickness tears where function cannot be restored conservatively, surgery may be required. Physiotherapy supports both pre- and post-operative care — helping to maintain motion beforehand and then guide safe, progressive recovery after repair.
Shoulder the recovery – with physiotherapy
Rotator cuff injuries may be common, but with the right care, they don’t have to be limiting. Physiotherapy works to reduce pain, retrain movement, and rebuild shoulder strength through evidence-based exercises and manual therapy. With time and commitment, your shoulder can once again handle shelves, hairbrushes, seatbelts (and glory) with ease.
Call Philip Wood Physiotherapy on 02 9838 3030 to make an appointment – and don’t forget to follow us on social media for more physiotherapy insights and recovery tips – we’ve got your back (and your shoulders!)
Posted by philipwoodphysio in General on November 22nd, 2025
Have you just recovered from a chest infection but still feel like your lungs are underperforming? Maybe you’re coughing, breathless, or finding even gentle exercise harder than usual. You’ll probably shake it off. Why not – you’ve shaken it off a million times before, so why should this time be any different? But sometimes, instead of bouncing back, you’re left with that frustrating sense that your lungs just aren’t pulling their weight. If that sounds familiar, the good news is – you’ve come to the right place! Call 02 9838 3030 to book an appointment with one of the physiotherapists at Philip Wood Physiotherapy.
Why chest infections leave lingering problems
A chest infection inflames the airways and often leads to a build-up of mucus. Even after the infection clears, you may be left with irritation, residual congestion, or weak respiratory muscles. These after-effects can contribute to fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance, or ongoing cough.
What respiratory physiotherapy does
Respiratory physiotherapy focuses on restoring efficient breathing and clearing the airways. Techniques aim to improve ventilation, strengthen respiratory muscles, and reduce discomfort. A physiotherapist assesses your breathing pattern, lung expansion, and posture before creating an individualised plan.
Key approaches physiotherapists use
Breathing exercises: Training the diaphragm and intercostal muscles improves oxygen exchange and restores full lung expansion. Techniques such as deep breathing or pursed-lip breathing promote calm, efficient breathing patterns.
Airway clearance techniques – Gentle huffing, controlled coughing, or positioning methods help loosen and clear mucus, reducing the risk of lingering infection or complications.
Postural support: Rounded shoulders and poor rib mobility can restrict breathing. Physiotherapists use mobility drills and posture correction to free the chest wall.
Gradual exercise prescription: Walking programs or light aerobic training may be introduced to rebuild stamina and improve cardiovascular health.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
It’s tempting to think a few deep breaths will do the trick, but poorly performed exercises or overexertion may slow recovery. If your breathing is already vulnerable (if you already have asthma, COPD, had surgery recently, or just never really got over that last chest infection) it might be wise to get professional help sooner rather than later. Our physiotherapists ensure your exercises match your current capacity, progress at a safe rate, and address your specific symptoms.
Ready to Breathe Easier?
Don’t let a recent chest infection hold you back. Call 02 9838 3030 to book your appointment with one of our physiotherapists at Philip Wood Physiotherapy.
Posted by philipwoodphysio in General on November 6th, 2025
Do you feel stiffness, discomfort, or a grinding sensation every time you move your hip? These symptoms can make walking, sitting, or even sleeping a challenge. And it’s true what they say – your “hips don’t lie”! Physiotherapists specialise in helping patients restore smooth, pain-free hip motion. Call 02 9838 3030 today to book an appointment with one of the physiotherapists here at Philip Wood Physiotherapy.
Why Hip Mobility Matters
The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint, designed for stability and a wide range of motion. Healthy hip movement supports walking, running, climbing stairs, and maintaining balance. When the hip becomes restricted due to injury, surgery, muscle tightness, or conditions such as arthritis, surrounding joints and muscles often compensate. This compensation may lead to knee, lower back, or pelvic pain. Restoring smooth hip motion reduces strain on these areas and helps return you to comfortable movement.
Understanding the Barriers
Common reasons for restricted hip mobility include:
A physiotherapist assesses these barriers through observation, palpation, and functional testing, then designs a tailored exercise plan to restore mobility.
Key Rehab Exercises
Physiotherapy programs generally focus on exercises that mobilise, strengthen, and coordinate the hip. These are some of the most effective approaches:
1. Hip Flexor Stretch
Tight hip flexors can limit extension and cause compensatory strain on the lower back. Kneel on one knee with the other foot forward, then gently shift forward while keeping your torso upright. Hold for 20–30 seconds and repeat on each side.
2. Glute Bridge
Strengthening the gluteal muscles helps restore smooth posterior hip motion. Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat. Press your heels into the floor and lift your hips, squeezing your glutes. Lower slowly. Start with 10–12 repetitions.
3. Side-Lying Leg Lifts
The hip abductors stabilise the pelvis during walking. Lie on one side with legs straight. Lift the top leg slowly, keeping your hips stacked, then lower with control. Aim for 2–3 sets of 10 repetitions.
4. Hip Circles
Gentle circular movements in a quadruped (all fours) position mobilise the joint. Lift one knee slightly off the floor and trace slow circles, forwards and backwards. This improves coordination and lubricates the joint capsule.
5. Step-Ups
Controlled step-ups onto a low platform retrain hip mechanics and strengthen multiple muscle groups. Focus on driving through the heel of the stepping leg while keeping your torso upright.
Progression and Consistency
Consistency matters more than intensity in hip rehab. Starting with low-load, controlled movements ensures safe joint recovery. Over time, physiotherapists may introduce resistance bands, stability exercises, and functional training like squats or lunges to mimic everyday movements.
Beyond Exercise
While exercises form the foundation of hip rehabilitation, other physiotherapy interventions may complement recovery:
Together, these approaches help restore smooth, pain-free hip function and improve quality of life.
When to Seek Professional Help
Hip pain and restricted movement should never be ignored. Early assessment allows physiotherapists to identify underlying causes and prevent further complications. If you experience persistent stiffness, pain when weight-bearing, or reduced range of motion, professional input is essential.
Take the First Step
Hip problems affect more than just movement – they can limit independence, exercise, and even restful sleep. With a personalised rehabilitation program, our physiotherapists aim to restore the fluid, natural motion your hips were designed for. Call 02 9838 3030 to book an appointment with a physiotherapist at Philip Wood Physiotherapy.
Posted by philipwoodphysio in General on October 21st, 2025
At Philip Wood Physiotherapy, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge to take charge of their health. If you’ve been noticing pain along the inner side of your foot or ankle, you might be dealing with Tibialis Posterior Dysfunction (TPD) – a condition that can seriously impact your mobility. The good news is that we are here to help. Call 02 9838 3030 to get a tailored assessment and start reclaiming comfortable movement.
What is tibialis posterior dysfunction?
Tibialis Posterior Dysfunction, also known as Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD), occurs when the posterior tibial tendon becomes inflamed, stretched, or torn. This tendon is critical for supporting the foot’s arch and stabilising the ankle during walking, running, or standing. When the tendon fails, the arch can collapse, leading to flatfoot deformity and altered gait patterns.
Causes and risk factors
Several factors can increase the risk of TPD:
Recognising the symptoms
Early detection is essential for effective management. Common signs include:
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, a physiotherapy assessment is strongly recommended.
Physiotherapy management
At Philip Wood Physiotherapy, our physiotherapists take a thorough, evidence-based approach to tibialis posterior dysfunction (TPD). Rather than just treating the sore spot, we look at the bigger picture – how your foot moves, how your ankle behaves, and even how your gait holds up when you’re rushing for the bus.
Assessment and diagnosis
It all begins with a hands-on assessment. This may include clinical examination and palpation (yes, that’s the gentle prodding bit), functional movement testing to see how the ankle performs in action, and a gait analysis that reveals whether your walk has picked up any quirks. If needed, imaging helps us confirm what’s happening beneath the surface.
Pain management
When the tendon is protesting, soothing it is step one. Ice therapy can help calm inflammation. Supportive taping or bracing is sometimes used too – think of it as a temporary bodyguard for your tendon while it settles down.
Strengthening exercises
Once the pain is under control, it’s time to rebuild strength. Eccentric calf raises help condition the tendon and calf muscles, while resistance band work targets the posterior tibial muscle directly. We also bring balance and proprioception training into the mix, so your ankle learns to stay steady even when the ground beneath it is unpredictable (looking at you, uneven pavements!).
Education and lifestyle modifications
Of course, physio isn’t just about what happens in the clinic. We’ll chat about the everyday factors that can help or hinder recovery: choosing the right footwear, considering orthotics if needed, pacing your activities, and managing weight to reduce strain on the tendon. Small changes can make a big difference in keeping your feet happier for the long run.
Preventing tibialis posterior dysfunction
Nobody wants to be back at square one. Preventive care is key – that means keeping the foot and ankle muscles strong, wearing supportive shoes (your thongs may not be doing you any favours), building up activity levels gradually instead of going hell for leather in week one, and looking after overall health to ease pressure on the tendons.
Why choose Philip Wood Physiotherapy?
Our team of physiotherapists combines scientific knowledge with personalised care to restore function and mobility. We’ll develop a rehabilitation plan tailored to your goals, helping you move confidently again.
If foot or ankle pain is slowing you down, don’t wait for it to worsen. Call 02 9838 3030 today and take the first step toward recovery.
Why not follow us for more foot physio facts?
…and the rest of your body too! Stay connected with Philip Wood Physiotherapy for tips, updates, and fun insights into keeping your feet and body moving at their best.
Posted by philipwoodphysio in Health Tips, Physiotherapy on July 16th, 2025
Let’s clear something up: yoga isn’t just for people who can twist themselves into pretzels or enjoy burning incense in their living room. You don’t need to chant or hum (unless you want to). From a physiotherapist’s point of view, yoga is simply a fantastic way to build strength, improve mobility, and move with more control – and that’s something most of us could do with. If you’re unsure whether yoga is the right fit for you, you can always chat to one of our physiotherapists first – we’ll help you find the right approach for your body. Call us on 02 9838 3030.
Yoga is often thought of as stretching, but it’s far more than that. It blends controlled movement with breathing and balance. Sound familiar? That’s because it shares a lot of ground with physiotherapy. In fact, many of the principles we use in rehab – posture, joint range, muscle control, and breath awareness – are echoed in a typical yoga class.
You do not have to be flexible to start. In fact, if you’re stiff, tight, or recovering from an injury, yoga might be exactly what you need. These days, there are classes for beginners, older adults, people with arthritis, the chair-bound, post-natal mums – the list goes on. Yoga is for everybody – and for every body.
Here’s why we often recommend it:
Yoga is low-impact and endlessly adaptable. Can’t kneel? There’s a workaround. Trouble with balance? Use a wall or a chair. The best teachers will offer alternatives, and nobody expects you to get everything right the first time. Or even the second time. That’s part of the fun.
If you’ve had a recent injury or long-standing issue, chat to your physiotherapist (us!) before you begin. We can help you choose the right class, or suggest postures to avoid at first. But if you’re otherwise fit to try it – go for it. You don’t need special gear or years of experience. Just a willingness to try something new and a sense of humour when your hamstrings protest.
So no, you don’t have to be bendy. You don’t have to love herbal tea. And you certainly don’t need to burn incense. But you might just walk out of that first yoga class feeling a little taller, a little calmer – and wondering why you didn’t start sooner.
Still not sure. Call 02 9838 3030 to speak to one of our physiotherapists at Philip Wood Physiotherapy – we’d love to help you get started. And don’t forget to follow us on social media for more movement tips and ideas.