MEPhysio Australia

Got tight ankles that just won’t loosen up? You’re not alone—and you might be surprised at how far the effects travel. For many Aussies, ankle stiffness doesn’t just affect the feet. It can mess with your knees, hips, and even your lower back. That niggling pain in your hips after sport or a walk? It could be starting much lower than you think. How Ankle Stiffness Throws Everything Off Your body works as a chain—when one link is restricted, the others have to pick up the slack. Ankles are built to flex and absorb shock. But if they’re stiff, your body will find other ways to move, usually by overloading your knees or hips. This compensation might not be obvious at first. You’ll still walk, run and squat—but you might start to feel tight in your hips, get a sore back after training, or notice your knees aren’t tracking right. Over time, these small shifts can lead to bigger problems. Who’s at Risk? Anyone can develop ankle stiffness, but it’s especially common among footy players, ru...

Thoracic Rotation Got an aching back after a long day at work or a tough session at the gym? You might be blaming your lower spine—but the real issue could be higher up. Limited thoracic rotation is one of the most common (and most overlooked) causes of back pain and stiffness in Australians today. Your thoracic spine is the middle section of your back, running from the base of your neck to just above your lower back. It’s designed to rotate, allowing your body to twist when you turn, reach, or swing. But when this part of your spine gets stiff—which often happens after years of sitting at a desk, lifting poorly, or ignoring mobility—it forces your lower back and neck to pick up the slack. That leads to pain, poor posture, and even injury. Tradies often twist while lifting or reaching overhead. Desk workers spend hours hunched forward. Athletes rotate through their upper body when running, swinging, or throwing. Across all these groups, thoracic stiffness can reduce performance, cause ...

Australia’s warm climate makes hydrotherapy sessions extra enjoyable, but the real benefit is what it does for your body. It’s gentle, effective, and perfect for those who can’t tolerate high-impact activities. From elite athletes to ageing Aussies, it’s a smart way to stay active. Ready to learn more? Find out how hydrotherapy can support your wellbeing.