FREE workshop: Living your best life with osteoarthritis

Learn how you can incorporate a variety of exercise in a way that will challenge you, but not hurt you, with Gavin Kerruish from Arena Joondalup Physiotherapy and Pilates.

For many of us osteoarthritis is an ever-present reminder that we are not getting any younger! It is often given as a ‘reason for our pain’, and we are told to ‘just put up with it’. Pain medication and anti-inflammatories become part of our daily diet. We are often reluctant to do activities we enjoy, because of the pain it may cause. We finally agree to play that round of golf or go for that long walk, and end up paying for it for days after. We are told exercise is good for us, but in those days after, you think nothing could be further from the truth.

Is there a better way? Can I learn how to improve my condition, and eventually get back to do some of the things I love?

Yes, exercise is good for osteoarthritis. It is good for your mind as well. But you need to know the do’s and don’ts. Learn how you can incorporate a variety of exercise in a way that will challenge you, but not hurt you. It can provide the platform for you to improve strength, balance, pain levels and activity levels.

We will give you simple explanations, simple plans for a gradual increase in activity, and demonstrate one great way of doing that. Clinical Pilates can provide a safe, fun way to do all of those things. Come and join us to find out how, watch our Pilates Instructor undertake some exercises on a Pilates Reformer at the seminar, and even try it for yourself. We promise a fun, practical presentation where you can join in and experience a new way of exercise.

Carol Richardson - the Health and Fitness Supervisor at HBFA will also be letting you know more about all the classes and services on offer at HBF Arena and which options to choose to get the most benefit out of your training routine.

Arena Joondalup Physiotherapy and Pilates is located in the new football club facility at HBF Arena. You can call on 9301 1600, or just drop in to discuss an injury or appointment!

Workshop Details

The workshop is open to all HBF Arena gym members and Arena Joondalup Physio clients. Registration is required as number are restricted. Register early at Gym Reception or by phoning 9300 7171.

About Gavin - Managing Partner and Senior Physiotherapist

Changing from farming to Healthcare
Gavin started out as a farmer in the Wheatbelt district of Wickepin, looking after sheep and wheat. He began to feel like it wasn’t for him, however, and soon heard a radio interview that would motivate him to make a career change. A family member of a person with cystic fibrosis was discussing what a difference the physiotherapist made in their lives. Interested, he explored the position further and realised it would allow him to use his sporting background, which included cricket, football and swimming, and his want to work with people.

I enjoy the challenge of helping people achieve their goals. Someone can be in pain, unable to do much at all, and soon progresses and improves. It’s a privilege to be of assistance to them.”

He sold the farm and enrolled at Curtin University. While there, he discovered the incredible range of conditions and people that physiotherapy can be of assistance to. After graduating in 2002, he started practicing at Arena Joondalup Physiotherapy.

Constantly learning and improving
To continue bringing his clients the best in the field, Gavin undergoes regular professional development courses. His personal special interests are in the treatment of the shoulder and hip, though he stays informed on all aspects of physiotherapy. He works closely with area surgeons, even attending surgeries and working with health professionals to manage a client’s case. Additionally, Gavin is a member of:

• The Australian Physiotherapy Association
• The Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Association

Gavin was the senior physiotherapist for the West Perth Football Club from 2003 to 2016. He also sees many athletes from the Arena Swim Club.

Outside the practice
In his spare time, Gavin stays busy with his three young children a rather demanding labrador and watching sports. He enjoys going on bike rides, watching football and netball and taking trips to his wife’s family farm in Wickepin.