The cutting edge of sports physio

Like many physiotherapists, Ross Paikin’s attraction to the profession was sparked by a love of sport. Growing up in an active, sports-oriented family, he was naturally drawn to a career that would allow him to work with athletes of all levels. 

“I’ve been heavily involved with sport my whole life and have a great love and passion for it,” says Ross, a sports and exercise physiotherapist. “Alongside that, I was also very interested in the body and its functions … I wanted to combine those two elements into a career.”

Early work experience gave Ross an insight into the breadth of physiotherapy.

“I found that physiotherapists could provide a service to a wide variety of people, from elite athletes through to cardiorespiratory patients in hospitals,” he says. “You could utilise your skills in so many ways.”

With several years of clinical experience and a Bachelor of Physiotherapy under his belt, Ross decided to pursue postgraduate study with ACU’s Master of Sports and Exercise Physiotherapy.

The advanced degree empowers working physiotherapists to better understand how wellbeing relates to performance, using an evidence-informed approach to manage injuries and health conditions.

“This course is at the cutting edge of education when it comes to sports physiotherapy, with the latest evidence-based knowledge that directly correlates to what we do every day,” says Ross, who completed the degree in mid-2024.

The program offered practical tools that Ross could immediately apply to his practice.

“Things like managing an acute sporting injury or those really complex high-pressure scenarios in elite sport… these skills are taught on a theoretical and a practical level, so you’re able to apply it to your work immediately for patient benefit.”

Reaping the rewards

Ross’s career has taken him through various roles, including working with elite sporting pathway programs at the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Wests Tigers. He now practices at Stadium Sports Physiotherapy, a leading physio clinic in Sydney.

ACU graduate Ross Paikin.

Reflecting on the differences between clinical physiotherapy and working with sporting teams, Ross says that in a team environment, you don’t always have the luxury of time.

“You’re having to make decisions in the moment,” Ross says.

“You need to stay calm under pressure and use your knowledge, skills and experience to make quick, informed decisions.”

He also notes that physiotherapists do a lot of work behind the scenes that people don’t see.

“It’s not for everyone, but if you love it, it’s incredibly rewarding to work with athletes of all levels, and particularly in that elite echelon. You reap the rewards of your labour when you see results on the field, and you get to share in that success.”

Reaching goals

No matter who he is treating, Ross has an overarching philosophy in his physiotherapy practice: a focus on individual needs and goals.

“Over time, I’ve become more conscious of the fact that every patient is different, and you need to combine your expertise with the patient’s desires and goals to truly achieve the desired outcomes,” he says.

“You put the patient’s goals and aspirations at the forefront, whilst counselling, educating and adding value where you can.”

His own long-term goal is to combine his passion for physiotherapy and his love of sport at the Olympic Games, treating Australia’s leading athletes on the world stage. 

“It’s always been a goal of mine to one day represent Australia as a physiotherapist at the Olympics,” Ross says. “That’s something I’m willing to work hard to achieve, but for now, I’ll keep diving right in and challenging myself… collaborating, networking and learning from the leaders in the field.”