The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre

22/10/2025

Our brand-new All Abilities Gym & Recovery Zone is now open, right next door to The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre in Epping!

This space was created to bridge the gap between rehabilitation and everyday wellness, giving every body the opportunity to move, recover, and thrive in an inclusive, supportive environment.

Designed as an intimate, calm space, it’s perfect for those who prefer a quieter, more personal fitness experience — including individuals with sensory sensitivities who find traditional gyms overwhelming.

During our soft launch period, we’re inviting you to experience it all:
🏋️‍♀️ Free gym access during business hours (8:30am – 4:30pm) until November 14
🧖‍♀️ Recovery Zone sessions just $10 each — including Sauna, Ice Bath & Compression Therapy

Whether you’re rebuilding strength, maintaining movement, or simply looking for a gym that feels good to be in, this space was made for you.

📍 Find us next door to The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre, Epping

📅 Soft launch now open | Extended hours coming soon

Because at The Next Step, recovery isn’t just something you do, it’s a way of life!

14/10/2025

Are you passionate about making a real difference in people’s lives? We’re looking for motivated, heart-led professionals to join our growing team at Victoria’s leading centre for spinal cord injury and neurological recovery.

We currently have openings for:
🧡 Part-Time Physiotherapist
💪 Part-Time Exercise Physiologist
🌱 Casual Allied Health Assistants

What we offer:
✨ Weekly professional development opportunities
🔥 Access to our brand-new gym & recovery zone (including sauna, ice bath + more!)
🧘‍♀️ Treatment room and yoga studio rental opportunities for allied health practitioners and wellness facilitators
🤝 A supportive, fun and purpose-driven team
🔬 The chance to contribute to Griffith University’s groundbreaking stem-cell clinical trials in 2026

If you’re looking for more than just a job — a role where your skills and passion can truly change lives — we’d love to hear from you.

📩 Apply now or tag someone who’d be perfect for these roles!
Email : enquiries@thenextstepsci.org.au

🔗 Learn more over at The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre

30/09/2025

⛳✨ Come & Try Golf with Empower Golf + TNS! ✨⛳

Ever thought about giving golf a swing? 🏌️‍♂️ Whether you’re brand new or just curious, this Introductory Golf Clinic is the perfect way to try something different, meet new people, and have some fun outdoors.

📍 Where: Royal Park Golf Club – 11 Old Poplar Rd, Parkville VIC 3052
📅 When: Tuesday 10th November
🕛 Time: 12:00pm (60 minutes)
🎯 Coach: Tom Catoggio

⭐ A TNS Exercise Physiologist will also be there to assist, so you’ll be fully supported throughout the session.
💰 The clinic will be billed at your Exercise Physiology rate.

This is all about inclusion, fun, and giving it a go – no experience needed, just bring your enthusiasm!

👉 If you’d like to join, contact Mitch to secure your spot:
📧 mitch@thenextstepsci.org.au

Spots are limited, so swing into action and register today! 🌟

24/09/2025

✨ We’re hiring! ✨

Are you a passionate Physiotherapist ready to take your career to the next level? Join us at The Next Step Spinal Cord Injury Recovery & Wellness Centre – Victoria’s leading centre dedicated to spinal cord injury and neurological recovery.

This part-time role offers:
🌱 Weekly professional development
💪 Staff access to our brand-new gym & recovery zone (sauna, ice bath + more!)
🧡 A supportive, fun and motivated team
🔬 The chance to be part of Griffith Uni’s groundbreaking stem cell clinical trials in 2026

If you’re looking for more than just a job – a role where your skills can truly change lives – we’d love to hear from you.

📩 Apply now or tag a physio who would be perfect for this role!

Find out more via the link below 👉

Find your ideal job at SEEK with 2 jobs found in Australia. View all our vacancies now with new jobs added daily!

17/04/2025

We don’t just put the FUN in functional, we bring real-life goals into every session!

At The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre, our recovery specialists create adaptive exercises that mirror the activities our athletes are working towards, like getting back out on the water and casting a line.

From simulated casting movements to grip and upper body strength training, we tailor each exercise to replicate the physical actions needed for fishing.

It’s not just about movement, it’s about making every rep count toward something meaningful.

Because when recovery is built around what you love, it’s not just therapy, it’s a comeback!

07/03/2025

Our podcast TAKING A DETOUR is now LIVE on Spotify!

TAKING A DETOUR is the podcast that embraces life’s unexpected twists on the road to recovery, healing, and growth. Hosted by Rhiannon Tracey and the team at The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre, each episode shares inspiring stories, expert insights, and practical tools to help you move forward. Whether overcoming challenges or redefining resilience, remember, every detour is still progress. Let’s take this journey together!

Available now on Spotify and coming soon to Apple Podcasts.

Listen here ➡️ https://open.spotify.com/episode/6ParBmVwGcNauKwEyAxD9D?si=90dTtW4KQV-2y1Nvz9gReQ

Or follow link in our bio! You can also follow the podcasts Instagram page to get involved in the conversations!

03/03/2025

Have you ever noticed that in many of our images our athletes eyes are closed?

We can confirm it’s not because they are sleeping, unless of course it’s post session and they absolutely deserve the rest, it’s actually because we often use visualisation as a therapy method within our sessions at TNS.

Check out our latest blog live now on our website that explains this method in depth and how you can incorporate it into your recovery journey!

➡️ https://www.thenextstepsci.org.au/the-power-of-visualisation-in-rehabilitation/

28/02/2025

A Powerful Recovery Combo for SCI & Neurological Conditions – Special March Offer!

For those living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) or neurological condition, managing circulation, muscle tone, and recovery can be a challenge.

Finding the right therapies may make a difference in how your body feels and functions daily. That’s why many people turn to NormaTec compression therapy and massage, which could work together to support better movement, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall well-being.

How This Combination Can Help!

NormaTec compression boots are designed to stimulate circulation, reduce swelling, and prevent fluid buildup, while massage therapy aims to relieve muscle tightness, reduce spasticity, and promote relaxation.

When used together, they may offer a well-rounded approach to recovery:

NormaTec - Supporting Circulation & Swelling Reduction:
•May encourage better blood flow and lymphatic drainage.
•Could help reduce swelling, stiffness, and the risk of pressure sores.
•Could assist with muscle recovery and fatigue management.

Massage Therapy - Promoting Muscle & Nerve Health:
•Has the potential to ease tight muscles and spasticity.
•May stimulate the nervous system, supporting better body awareness and relaxation.
•Could help with flexibility and overall comfort.

Why They Work Well Together!
Encouraging Circulatory & Lymphatic Flow:
NormaTec may help move fluid buildup, while massage can improve fresh blood circulation.

Reducing Muscle Tension & Discomfort: Massage can help relax tight muscles, while NormaTec can assist in flushing out metabolic waste.

Potential to Prevent Secondary Complications: Regular use may help lower the risk of pressure sores, circulation issues, and nerve pain.

Promoting Relaxation & Stress Relief: These therapies may support better sleep, reduced discomfort, and overall well-being.

Throughout March, when you purchase a NormaTec compression session, you’ll receive a FREE 30-minute massage with our physiotherapist!

This is a great opportunity to experience how these therapies can work together to enhance your recovery and daily comfort!

📅 Spots are limited, book your session today!

20/02/2025

MY FUNDING HAS BEEN CUT - WHAT CAN I DO?

Embarking on a recovery journey through exercise physiology and physiotherapy is one of the most empowering choices you can make.

At The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre, you’ll find expert guidance and tailored support to regain strength, mobility, and independence.

But let’s be real, accessing these services can be a financial challenge.

Consistency is key to achieving lasting results, yet if your current funding only covers one session per week, you might not be getting the full support you need.

That’s where fundraising and alternative funding options come in.

💡 Explore Your Funding Options:
• Private health insurance may cover part of your sessions.
• Medicare’s EPC/CDM Plan provides rebates for chronic conditions.
• NDIS participants, advocate for what you deserve! Don’t settle for limited funding if you need more. Request a plan review, provide medical evidence, and fight for your rights.

If these options don’t fully cover your needs, it’s time to get creative.

💪 Ways to Raise Additional Funds:
✔️ Crowdfunding: Share your story on GoFundMe or Fundly, people want to help when they see your determination.
✔️ Host a Fundraiser: A BBQ, car wash, or raffle can bring your community together for a great cause—YOU!
✔️ Apply for Grants & Sponsorships: Organisations and local businesses often support recovery initiatives.
✔️ Sell Your Skills: Whether it’s handmade crafts, photography, or yard work, use your talents to generate extra funds.
✔️ Ask for Support: Friends and family want to help, give them the opportunity to contribute.

You Are Worth It!!

Recovery isn’t just about showing up, it’s about fighting for yourself.

You deserve the best possible care, and if financial barriers stand in the way, know that there are ways to overcome them. Be bold, be persistent, and never be afraid to ask for what you need.

Your health, your strength, your future is all within reach!

19/02/2025

Gait Training at The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre

Regaining the ability to walk after a spinal cord injury or neurological condition is about more than just movement, it’s about freedom, confidence and independence.

At The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre, we provide specialised gait training to help individuals improve strength, balance and coordination at any stage of their recovery.

Using techniques like body-weight-supported treadmill training, functional electrical stimulation and hands-on therapy, we create a personalised program to help you progress towards your mobility goals in a safe and effective way.

We understand that everyone’s recovery journey is unique, and while outcomes may vary, our commitment remains the same, to support and celebrate every milestone along the way.
Whether it’s improving movement control, standing with confidence, or taking steps towards greater mobility, every achievement is meaningful, and we’ll be with you at every stage of your progress!

Gait training is beneficial for individuals recovering from:
✔ Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
✔ Stroke (CVA)
✔ Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
✔ Parkinson’s Disease
✔ Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
✔ Cerebral Palsy (CP)

📍 Take your next step with us! Contact The Next Step Recovery & Wellness Centre today to start your journey towards greater mobility.

12/02/2025

Sports aren’t just about competition, they’re a game-changer for mental health!

From stress relief to confidence boosts, staying active helps clear the mind and build resilience.

Whether you’re playing, training, or just moving, every step counts toward better health & well-being.

Our Team Leader & Exercise Physiologist shares his knowledge and personal experiences getting involved and playing sport for health benefits, over on our blog!

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