From a young age l loved sport, playing representative Golf, Cricket, and Badminton in Auckland, New Zealand. I went on to become a Personal Trainer and Manager at BodyTech Fitness and Spa before continuing my studies in Osteopathy. I graduated with a Master of Osteopathy in 2004 from Unitec in Auckland, New Zealand. My interest in sports and exercise subsequently led to the completion of a Postgraduate Certificate in Health Science (Sports Medicine) from the University of Auckland.
In my clinical practice, I have a particular interest in musculoskeletal pain and biomechanics, especially as it relates to exercise, movement, and sporting injuries. I also enjoy helping people suffering from disc issues, persistent postural strain, joint pain, headache and migraine, nerve injuries, plantar fasciitis, vertigo, and TMJ (jaw) disorders. I work with pregnant patients experiencing musculoskeletal pain. I love taking a patient-centered approach to osteopathic treatment, with a focus on education and self-management to help people take control of their own recovery.
I can relate to pain having had back surgery in 2008 for disc prolapses. I injured my lower back in 2006 and that was the last day I practiced Osteopathy for four years. Prior to surgery, I was told it was likely I would never practice Osteopathy or play sport again. After a lot of rehabilitation, I was able to resume practicing Osteopathy and I also started playing squash (my surgeon was a little surprised by my choice but gave me the ok to continue). It was a long recovery however I feel it has enabled me to become a better Osteopath as I truly understand what it means to be in chronic pain and how it affects both the body and mind.
In 2012 I moved from New Zealand to Wollongong, Australia. Since moving to Wollongong I have worked with Ian Cassidy at the Osteopathic and Healthcare Clinic in the Wollongong CBD.
Having lived in the Southern Highlands for three years, I’m excited to be relocating to my own clinic in Moss Vale in Nov 2023. My new clinic will combine my love of treating both dogs and people and is called The Dog Osteo.
If you would like to make an appointment with Rachel please phone 0416 631 290 or you can book online here.