With International Women’s Day highlighting the importance of supporting women’s health, Laith Cunneen, managing director at Peak Physio says it’s a timely reminder for them to prioritise their health.
“When it comes to women’s health, few things are more important than understanding how to support your body through life’s stages,” he says.
“We’re so lucky to have some amazing female physiotherapists across our team at Peak and we’re exceptionally proud of the work we do in women’s health.”
From preconception to pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and menopause, Peak Physio is helping women strengthen their bodies and improve their health outcomes through expert care and early intervention.
Why women’s health matters
Women’s bodies undergo immense changes throughout life, yet many women are unaware of how physiotherapy can support them through these transitions.
With clinic locations in Newcastle, the Central Coast and the Hunter, Peak Physio’s focus is on empowering women to understand their bodies and address issues as early as possible.
“We’ve seen a noticeable increase in women seeking help during the preconception phase,” says Olivia Hadfield,a senior physiotherapist at Peak Physio
“Women are becoming more aware of the importance of pelvic health and strength, and how that can set them up for a smoother pregnancy and postpartum recovery.”
Peak Physio offers specialised programs to strengthen the pelvic floor, improve core stability, and prepare the body for pregnancy and childbirth.
“It’s not just about recovery, it’s about helping women regain confidence and strength so they can return to the activities they love,” explains Olivia.
Postpartum recovery
Seeing a physio within the first six weeks postpartum is linked to better long-term outcomes and the team at Peak Physio encourage new mums to prioritise this recovery window.
“Women who come to us early have better strength, reduced risk of incontinence and prolapse, and generally feel more supported,” says Olivia.
Peak Physio’s approach combines physical and emotional support, helping women feel stronger and more connected. The team help women recover after birth, treating common issues such as pelvic girdle pain, Diastasis recti (abdominal separation), incontinence, prolapse and even mastitis.
They also offer classes and group sessions to help new mothers build confidence and community.
Menopause and beyond
As women enter perimenopause and menopause, hormonal changes can affect muscle tone, bone density, and joint health.
“We see a lot of women in their 40s and 50s experiencing tendon issues, joint pain, and metabolic changes,” says Ariane McCormack a senior physiotherapist at Peak Physio.
“Heavy resistance training is one of the most effective ways to combat these changes, but it needs to be tailored to each woman’s needs.”
Frozen shoulder, osteoporosis, and other musculoskeletal issues are also common at this stage of life, but they’re not inevitable.
Through expert guidance and strength-focused rehabilitation, physiotherapy helps women maintain their strength, mobility, and independence.
Building lifelong strength and confidence
What sets Peak Physio apart is their commitment to the circle of care, supporting women at every life stage, from teenage years through pregnancy, menopause, and into older age.
“Many of our clients first come to us for a musculoskeletal issue, maybe back pain or a running injury, and through that, we start conversations about pelvic health, incontinence, and hormonal changes,” explains Ariane.
The physiotherapists also work closely with other health professionals, including dietitians, specialists, and GPs, to provide truly holistic care.
Small Changes, big impact
For women looking for simple ways to stay active throughout their life, Ariane encourages “movement snacks”, small bursts of activity throughout the day.
“Just getting up from your chair, stretching, walking a few flights of stairs, or doing a couple of squats – it all adds up,” she says.
“We want to make exercise accessible and achievable for everyone.”
Start Your Journey
Unlike some health services, you don’t need a referral to see a physio at Peak Physio. Women can book an appointment directly, even via telehealth if they prefer.
“We want to make it easy for women to get the care they need,” says Olivia.
“It’s never too early, or too late, to take control of your health.”
To book an appointment or learn more, reach out to Peak Physio for expert physiotherapy in the Newcastle, Maitland & Central Coast regions.
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