Zee Sharif
Advanced Men and Women's Pelvic Floor Health Physio
Hi, I'm Zee, a senior physiotherapist at Return To Form. 13 years ago I set out to provide a better physio experience in my part of Auckland.
I have a hands-on holistic approach combining my acupuncture, Pilates, and general physio skills for your needs. I specialise and have extensive knowledge with pregnancy, women and men’s pelvic floor health, clinical Pilates, and cancer rehabilitation. My goal is to prepare you for what lies ahead and to get your body to work with you, not against you.
I once had a 31 year old new mum-to-be come in for an appointment for a rather difficult pregnancy. Even though Mary wanted to be physically active, she was hesitant, which was understandable. So I assessed her and guided her with safe movement and exercises to get her in good form, be comfortable with her body, build up her strength, and get rid of any aches and pains. We prepared her for her big day and she's been happy and active ever since, even with bubba at her hip.
I love being able to make a difference in someone's life. Let me made a difference for yours.
Ruairi Sheehan
Physiotherapist
Hi, I am Ruairi. I am an experienced physiotherapist that has worked in the HSE and private practices in Ireland.
I specialise in musculoskeletal injuries and massage therapy.
I bring expertise in diagnosing, treating and rehabilitating various conditions affecting muscles, bones and joints. Through targeted massage techniques and evidence based interventions, I alleviate pain, enhance mobility and promote healing.
Paul was a patient I treated with a rotator cuff injury to his right shoulder after falling on his outstretched arm.
On our initial assessment, I outlined a structured rehabilitation programme we would progress through while setting realistic goals & expectations with Paul.
Our rehabilitation consisted of education on his injury, conservative pain management options, self management techniques, soft tissue treatment, ultrasound therapy, stretching & strengthening exercises until Paul was pain free and returned to his normal activities.
My qualifications include a BSc in Sports Science & Health from Dublin City University and a Professional Masters in Physiotherapy from University College Dublin.
I moved to New Zealand from Ireland to work as a physiotherapist and experience a new culture. I enjoy sports, hiking and travelling which is why New Zealand appealed so much to me.
I am particularly passionate about working with people and building strong relationships along the way. I believe in working collaboratively with patients to develop personalised treatment plans aimed at restoring their normal function and achieving their rehabilitation goals.
Jo Cruz
Senior Physiotherapist
Hi I'm Jo, I am an experienced Physio with over 30 years experience. I use hands on traditional physio techniques as well as Trigenics to assists in restoring normal patterns and range of movement. It is extremely effective for frozen shoulders.
I have extensive training in traditional acupuncture as well the Japanese method,Toyahari, which is a very gentle form of acupuncture to help relieve pain as well as other ailments. Great for you if you have phobia about needles.
I also practice cosmetic/rejuvenation facial acupuncture, if you suffer from Acne, Bells palsy, scars & injuries, facial acupuncture can help. Also, no need for Botox or surgery if you want to erase a few wrinkles and feel & look better!
Jade Naus
Physiotherapist
Hi I'm Jade, I am a Musculoskeletal Physio with over 5 years experience. I have done additional specialised training in Cancer Rehabilitation
I am pasionate about helping people achieve their goals, especially patients with long-term chronic conditions, and patients with cancer related functional limitations. I also enjoy treating sport related injuries, and those returning to sporting activities.
I worked with a client named John who had 3 lower back surgeries and was diagnosed with persistent pain. I worked closely with John to set goals for physiotherapy, including being able to walk for 30 minutes and lift 20kg, in order to lift his child at home. In our physiotherapy session, we slowly increased his functional tolerance through progressive exercise and a walking program. Although it took time, John was able to achieve his goals and felt he was able to trust his back, leading to an overall improvement in his quality of life.
I enjoy solving and diagnosing patients who have a complex presentation of symptoms or are returning to higher level functions.
Sharon Shan Qu
Senior Acupuncturist
I am Sharon, a licensed acupuncturist, working with the Ponsonby community for over 6 years. I specialise in the treatment of ACC injuries, pain management, and internal disorders such as insomnia, stress, depression, obesity, pregnancy, and menstrual disorders.
One of my recent success stories is that of Sara, who suffered from constant anxiety attacks and had negative side effects from the antidepressants she was prescribed. After three months of acupuncture treatments with me, Sara was able to stay home alone, drive, and take care of her children. She may not be 100% well yet but she's on her way to getting her life back.
I understand that seeking treatment can be daunting, but I assure you that I will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you receive the care and support you need. If you're looking for a skilled and compassionate acupuncturist, I would be honoured to work with you. Contact me today to schedule an appointment and start your journey towards optimal health and wellness.
I received my master's degree in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine from Hunan University of Chinese Medicine in 2012. Since then, I have dedicated myself to helping my patients achieve optimal health and wellness. My professional interests include the rehabilitation of patients and helping them improve their symptoms.
I believe that the key to good health and wellness goes beyond the treatment room. That is why I maintain a healthy lifestyle through exercise and gardening. These personal interests help me stay in top physical and mental shape, which allows me to better serve my patients.
Lindsay MacIsaac
Women's Pelvic Floor Health Physio
Hi, I'm Lindsay and I am the part-time Women's Pelvic Floor Health Physio here at Return To Form. I completed my Master of Science in Physiotherapy at Brunel University London.
Originally from Canada, I finished my Bachelor in Kinesiology from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver and proceeded to work as a Kinesiologist providing active rehabilitation.
My background in ballet, jazz and contemporary dance styles ignited my passion for working with physical injuries in a rehab setting. I went on to complete specialised training in the women’s pelvic health space and now have a passion for working with conditions including urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain.
Anna was a woman I was working with who was experiencing urinary leaking after her second baby. She didn’t have any troubles returning to exercise after her first baby but had been struggling with incontinence after her second. To help her achieve her goals of returning to running and resistance training, we worked on her pelvic floor muscle strength as well as whole body return to function. She happily completed her first half marathon race one year postpartum with a 5-year personal best.
When not at the clinic, you can find me at the gym, on long walks, or taking photos of the scenery around Auckland.
Haruko Hata
Massage Therapist
Hi, I am Haruko, I am the massage therapist here at Return To Form. I bring my genuine passion for client-centered care to every session to achieve each client’s goal with their satisfaction.
I’m a massage therapist with over 10 years of experience in New Zealand.
I graduated from Wellpark College of Natural Therapies in 2014. To expand my skill set, I undertook additional training in deep tissue massage, cancer massage, myofascial release therapy and medical massage therapy.
Andrew was one of my clients, who was suffering from chronic sciatica pain and relying heavily on painkillers. This severe pain led to walking problems. The initial treatment phase (weekly sessions) focused on releasing tension in the outer muscles to access the inner muscles. A significant reduction in painkiller intake was observed after the first session. Subsequent sessions resulted in progressively longer periods of pain relief. The next treatment phase (every 2-3 weeks) targeted pain-affected muscles, resulting in marked pain alleviation. He successfully initiated exercises and continued monthly massage sessions to prevent pain and muscle tightness.
In my recent position at Hospice West Auckland,I worked as a palliative care massage therapist, providing care to patients with various conditions including cancer, MND, COPD and dementia, as well as offering emotional and physical support to their families.I am dedicated to enhancing the physical and mental well-being of individuals to improve their quality of life.
On my days off I enjoy hiking as New Zealand has plenty of spectacular trails which I would love to explore more of.
Lucy Kirwan
Chief Administrator
Hi, I'm Lucy - an experienced receptionist & administrator who has been in customer service and admin roles for over 10 years.
I started my career in retail, where I learnt customer service skills, and the value of listening to each client and their motives for stepping through the door. I then moved on to a clinical practice management role, which I worked in for over 5 years. It was during this time I learnt the importance of helping each client from that first call enquiry, assisting with their questions, and diary management; whilst remaining empathetic and flexible. I am passionate about building a close and positive team, and providing our clients with the utmost care and a great experience.
One of my strengths lies in helping clients who are in pain- by juggling our busy books and fitting them in the same day so we can help manage their symptoms and get them back on track to doing the physical activites they love.
Outside of work, I spend a lot of time at the beach in summer, walking, and I absolutely love to travel whenever I get the chance!
Nisha Suresh
Yoga Trainer
I am Nisha, a 500- hour certified international yoga trainer. I am trained in hatha yoga, vinyasa flow, Iyengar yoga, chair yoga, yoga therapy, prenatal yoga, and relaxation and restorative yoga. Currently doing my 800- hour Yoga Therapy training.
I have over 9 years of experience in professional dancing, and teaching. I have been a yoga/ fitness instructor for over 4 years and have certifications in fitness, nutrition, and sports psychology. I am also a psychology and clinical social work post-graduate and my interests lie in mental health and wellbeing. My experience in dance and yoga has made me a natural trainer and I understand how each one is different. I enjoy working with people from different backgrounds. I believe in holistic health.
Currently, I am pursuing my PhD in the neuroscience of yoga and its application in sleep.
Janvi was one of my clients who had abdomen cysts issues and had high stress levels when we met. I had 1-on-1 yoga/yoga therapy classes for her and the sessions were structured to meet her needs which were losing weight, alternate intensity classes and lots of relaxation. After a month, she saw drastic changes in herself. She was feeling healthier, stronger and more stress free. She was happy that she was able to relax more than before. Her doctor confirmed that there was an improvement in her condition.
I like to work with people with sleep and other mental health struggles. It fascinates me that Yoga can be used as a therapy for better mental health and relaxation.
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