Dave O'Brien

Background

I grew up in Bendigo and was heavily involved in sport throughout my childhood, competing at state level in tennis and soccer. Spending so much time around physiotherapists during these years sparked my early interest in how the body moves, performs, and recovers from injury.

I completed my Physiotherapy studies at Charles Sturt University in Albury and have since worked across a range of musculoskeletal practices in Australia and overseas. These experiences have allowed me to develop a broad and well rounded clinical skill set. While living in London, I worked in a specialist musculoskeletal clinic in Kensington and held the role of Lead Physiotherapist for the sports scholarship program at the University of East London, further shaping my clinical reasoning and approach.

Clinical Interests and Approach

I am particularly drawn to treating complex and persistent conditions, including neck and back pain, migraine and headache disorders, vestibular conditions such as vertigo and dizziness, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (jaw pain). I regularly work in collaboration with dentists, medical practitioners, and medical specialists to ensure coordinated, evidence based care.

My approach is centred on detailed, holistic assessment and identifying the true driver of a problem. I believe the best outcomes are achieved when people understand their condition and feel confident in managing it. While I enjoy working with athletes, much of my professional satisfaction comes from helping everyday people, including desk based workers, farmers, recreational sportspeople, and busy parents, return to comfortable, confident movement.

Leadership and Professional Development

As a Director, I am passionate about supporting people to grow, both clinically and personally. I enjoy helping physiotherapists develop strong clinical reasoning, confidence, and independence in their decision making, while also supporting them to pursue the areas of practice and career pathways that matter most to them.

I believe people do their best work when they feel supported, challenged, and aligned with what they care about. Through mentoring, collaboration, and shared learning, I aim to help our team continue to grow, achieve meaningful goals, and deliver consistently high quality care to our community.

Beyond the Clinic

In spare moments we like to create memories with our young, growing family or you might find me searching for a golf ball in some trees.