Physio on Ross Annandale

20/01/2026

🎯 Sudden Vertigo? The Room Spinning? It Might Be BPPV — And Physio Can Fix It Fast

If you’ve ever rolled over in bed or looked up at a shelf and suddenly felt the room spin, you’re not alone. Vertigo affects up to 30% of adults over 60, and one of the most common causes is something called Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).

The good news? It’s one of the most treatable causes of dizziness.

👉 What Is BPPV?
Inside your inner ear are tiny crystals that help your brain sense movement and balance. Sometimes these crystals become dislodged and drift into the wrong canal. When this happens, simple head movements trigger sudden, intense spinning sensations.

👉 Fast Facts:
✔ BPPV can last weeks or months if untreated — but often improves in 1–2 physio sessions
✔ More common in women and adults 50+
✔ Episodes usually last 10–30 seconds
✔ Vertigo increases risk of falls by 2–3 times in older adults

👉 Common Symptoms:
• Spinning when lying down, rolling over, looking up, or bending forward
• Nausea or unsteadiness
• Sensitivity to quick head movements
• Brief episodes that settle once you keep still

👉 How Physio Helps:
Specialised vestibular physiotherapy uses gentle repositioning techniques (such as the Epley manoeuvre) to guide the crystals back where they belong. Most people feel dramatically better immediately—or within just a few days.

If dizziness has been making you cautious or worried, you don’t have to put up with it.
💬 Send us a message — we can help you get your balance and confidence back quickly and safely.

P: (07) 4728 2116
E: admin@physioonross.com.au

16/01/2026

UPDATE ON WAITING TIMES

Now that Physio on Ross is finally fully staffed we can normally offer appointments within the 24 hours. As many of you know, Jared Evans (a senior physiotherapist from another local practice ) has joined our ranks so there is now more choice of appointment times. Should any queries arise dont hesitate to make contact on 47282116 or email admin@physioonross.com.au
Best wishes for 2026.
Brett

16/01/2026

🦵
Knee Osteoarthritis: Why It Happens — And Why It’s NOT “Just Age”

Did you know knee osteoarthritis affects 1 in 5 adults over 50? But here’s the good news: it’s not simply “wear and tear,” and it’s absolutely not a condition you need to just accept or live with.

👉 What Actually Causes It?
Knee osteoarthritis happens when the joint becomes irritated, the cartilage thins slightly, and the surrounding muscles weaken. But interestingly, research shows cartilage is living tissue that can adapt and stay healthy when the joint is moved and strengthened regularly. This means the knee isn’t “wearing out”—it’s often just underprepared for the loads of daily life.

👉 Quick Facts:
✔ People with stronger legs have up to 40% less pain from knee OA
✔ Walking actually lubricates the knee and reduces stiffness
✔ Exercise is the most effective long-term treatment, more than injections or pain meds
✔ Symptoms often improve in as little as 4–6 weeks with the right program

👉 Common Signs:
• Morning stiffness that eases once you’re moving
• Pain when standing up from a chair
• Clicking or grinding
• Swelling after activity
• Difficulty kneeling, squatting, or climbing stairs

👉 How Physio Helps:
We target the exact muscles that support your knee, improve joint mobility, reduce stiffness, and guide you through safe, progressive strengthening. Most people notice clearer movement, improved confidence, and less daily pain.

If your knees have been slowing you down, now is the perfect time to take control.
💬 Send us a message — we’re here to help you keep moving, confidently and pain-free.
Phone: (07) 4728 2116
Email: admin@physioonross.com.au

- Posted by Jared, your newest POR physiotherapist.

13/01/2026

SCHOOL BACKPACKS

School Backpack Tips – Set Your Child Up for Success At School


As the new school year begins, choosing the right backpack is crucial for your child's posture and wellbeing.
Research shows that over 80% of children carry backpacks exceeding the recommended 10% of body weight threshold, which can lead to musculoskeletal discomfort and postural changes (PMC Studies, 2024).


Choosing the Right Backpack:

• Wide, cushioned shoulder straps to spread weight evenly

• Adjustable straps so the bag sits close to the body

• Multiple compartments for even weight distribution

• Lightweight construction

• Both straps worn at all times


Smart Habits for Parents:

• Keep total weight below 10% of your child's body weight

• Do weekly bag clean-outs to remove unnecessary items

• Place heavier items closest to your child's back


Why This Matters

Children's physiotherapy professionals stress that good posture helps improve focus, reduce tiredness, and increase comfort during learning and play. By choosing a supportive backpack and encouraging healthy habits, you are giving your child a strong foundation for the school year.



Questions about your child's posture? Call 4728 2116

01/01/2026

JARED EVANS-Physiotherapist

Physio on Ross would like to welcome it's newest physiotherapist, Jared Evans to it's team. Jared is locally schooled and JCU trained, and has been working the last couple of years at another Townsville private Practice. We wish him all the best and look forward to him establishing himself in The Townsville/Annandale region. Appointments can be made from 12 Jan 2026 online ( search Physio on Ross) or by contacting the practice directly 47282116.

Below is Jared's profile.

Born and raised in Townsville, Jared attended Ignatius Park College before completing his Bachelor of Physiotherapy at JCU in 2022. Jared was an avid sportsman who would be found across multiple codes including rugby league, rugby union, and oztag. Following a short stint in kickboxing and jiu jitsu, you may now spot Jared at Strand Fitness, Kinetic CrossFit or running the hill. Jared's strong connection to the local community underpins his commitment to providing high-quality, personalised care for people across Townsville. His approach is grounded in strong clinical reasoning, up-to-date research, and a clear understanding that no two bodies - or injuries - are the same.

To ensure his patients receive the highest standard of care, Jared has completed postgraduate training including:
• APA Sports Physiotherapy Level 1 & 2
• Vestibular rehabilitation for adults of all ages
• Lymphoedema Therapy
• Dry Needling Certification
This additional training allows Jared to bridge the gap between rehabilitation and performance, whether the goal is returning to sport, reducing pain, or simply moving better in everyday life.

Jared has worked with athletes at Brothers League Club, Mendi 9's and the National Masters Cricket Competition, giving him valuable insight into sports injuries, load management and performance-focused rehabilitation. However, his experience extends well beyond the sporting field.

He has strong interest in:
• Orthopaedic rehabiliation (post-surgery and injury recovery)
• Neurological & Vestibular rehabiliation
• Geriatric physiotherapy
• Lymphoedema Therapy
This broad clinical exposure allows Jared to confidently treat everyone from competitive athletes to older adults wanting to maintain independence and quality of life.

01/01/2026

Best wishes for 2026 from Physio on Ross. We're hoping it's a year of happiness, less stress and good health for you and your family.

17/12/2025

CHRISTMAS and NEW YEAR TRADING HOURS

Hopefully you remain healthy, enjoy the festive season and won't require our services-but in case you do, here are Physio on Ross' Christmas Trading Hours.
Best wishes
Brett, Trish and Alex

Monday 22/12/25 7.30am - 6.30pm
Tuesday 23/12/25 7.30am - 5pm
Wednesday 24/12/25 CLOSED
Thursday 25/12/25 Xmas CLOSED
Friday 26/12/25 Boxing Day CLOSED
Monday 29/12/25 8am - 2pm
Tuesday 30/12/25 8am - 2pm
Wednesday 31/12/25 8am - 2pm
Thursday New Years Day CLOSED
Friday 02/01/25 CLOSED
Monday 5/1/26 Normal Hours 7.30am - 6.30pm

17/12/2025

CHRISTMAS WISHES
Unbelievably another year has nearly passed and Physio on Ross would like to wish all of our clients all the very best of happiness over the festive period. Hopefully you will all enjoy some well-earned rest and spend time with your friends and family. Thank you again for your loyalty over the years-some of you have been with our practice since the 1990's and I have since treated your children, and now your grandchildren. It's been a great privilege to have witnessed the three generations develop. Thank you for your trust and again be safe and happy over Christmas.
Brett, Trish, Alex and Jared

18/09/2025

PHYSIO ON ROSS - Vacancy - One Fulltime or Part-Time Private Practice Physiotherapist

Physio on Ross, Annandale-Townsville, is looking for an enthusiastic physiotherapist to join its team. Be part of a personable clinic that relies on word of mouth and reputation. Work beside the owner, Brett Cunningham, who has 37 years physiotherapy experience around Queensland (public hospitals, private practice and with the defence) and the UK. This allows a great learning opportunity as Brett has worked in Townsville since 1990.
Wage remuneration can be of salary or incentive driven, your choice. No on call work, no weekend shifts, no home visits. There are hydrotherapy opportunities if interested to allow more variety of treatment. Professional development will be financially assisted and regular inservices will be arranged as required. Wage scales will be according to experience but will be above the award.
Are you interested in learning the business side of physio as well? The clinic is set up with 6 treatment rooms with gym facilities attached.
For further queries please don’t hesitate to contact Brett Cunningham on 07 47282116 or email admin@physioonross.com.au

17/09/2025

Osteoporosis versus Osteoarthritis -What's the difference?

I have been asked by a client to find more information on her condition-OSTEOPOROSIS but unfortunately when we met and had a chat she advised me it was osteoarthritis. It wasn't a problem and a definition often confused, so if interested please find below a link to an article I have written on our webpage.

https://www.physioonross.com.au/blog/osteoporosis-and-osteoarthritis/

Also, within the next week or two will be some more information and correcting mistruths about osteoporosis management and exercise. That is to follow.
Hope all are well and the year is quickly disappearing (only 99 days until Christmas !!)
Brett

05/08/2025

Welcome ANITA SELBY

Physio on Ross would like to welcome our newest physio to staff-Anita Selby. She has plenty of experience and many of Townsville's community will know her work from various settings. We are pleased to announce that Anita will be commencing work from Tuesday 12th August and you will be able to contact her directly through our admin phone 47282116 or by "Booking online" on our webpage www.physioonross.com.au

Please find below Anita's bio.

"A local Townsville girl, Anita completed a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at James Cook University with Honours in 2008. In a career spanning 16 years, she has gained experience in a wide range of patient settings. Upon graduation, Anita worked two years in Kingaroy on a QLD Health rural scholarship. Upon returning to Townsville, she worked at the Townsville Hospital until she found her calling in private practice work. Anita worked for a few reputable private practice clinics around Townsville, before running her own small multidisciplinary clinic. Returning to the hospital scene, Anita worked at the Mater Hospital for five years across inpatients, outpatients and rehabilitation, in clinical and leadership roles. She returned to private practice and community-based work where she has been over the last five years. These experiences have led Anita to have knowledge in a breadth of areas, including musculoskeletal, sports, women’s health, lymphoedema, occupational health, and aged care.

In her junior years, Anita also competed at high level sports, achieving state representation over seven years in softball, and even a national squad. She knows the commitment required to compete at a high level, but also about being involved in sport and exercise for fitness, health, and social benefits. Not a stranger to injuries herself in later years, Anita has experienced her own rehabilitation journeys and so knows firsthand what it is like to need to recover and return to doing what she enjoys. She prides herself on being able to connect with patients, find the underlying cause of pain or injury, and work together with patients with a hands-on and active evidence-based approach to recovery and injury management.

Anita is a proud Mum to a ten-year-old daughter, and in her spare time they enjoy spending time together, going to the beach, watching movies, and spending time with family. You will still find her on the sports field – playing softball and touch football, coaching the junior ranks, and she is also a regular attendee at F45.

Anita is looking forward to being part of the team at Physio on Ross and being part of your journey! "

17/07/2025

More from our Physio FAQs. I know that you likely know much of this information already - but we are finding that a lot of people are unaware of the range of tools an experienced physio can use to help.

Townsville Physiotherapist Brett Cunningham shares some of the different physio techniques used.