Rheumatology Physiotherapy

Rheumatology Physiotherapy is Physiotherapy for people who have either been diagnosed with or are suspected of having an inflammatory disease. We are thrilled to welcome Rory McIntyre to the Embody Movement team and are confident that his expertise in Rheumatology Physiotherapy will be a great addition to our team.

The research is clear that medical management is only part of the picture when it comes to achieving the best outcomes with these conditions. An integrated approach to your health including movement, diet, mindset and community, is recommended to give the best outcomes.  

At Embody Movement, we provide an in-depth assessment and tailored approach with Rory who specialises in Rheumatology conditions, looking at you as a person and not just your joints.

We recognise the importance of integrated care, and we have a trusted network of allied health partners on the Sunshine Coast we can work with where appropriate, to give you the most effective, evidence-based care. 


Types of inflammatory conditions

Embody Movement Rheumatology Physiotherapy is suitable for children and adults experiencing a range of different inflammatory and autoimmune conditions including:

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) 

  • Spondyloarthritis (SpA) including Psoriatic Arthritis and Axial / Ankylosing Spondylitis 

  • Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) 

  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) 

  • Lupus (SLE).


Working with our Rheumatology Physiotherapist

Rheumatology Physiotherapy is an additional tool to include in your approach to the management of inflammatory conditions.

Our Rheumatology Physiotherapist can offer an informed perspective on managing symptoms and flare-ups, lifestyle factors and the role of movement.

Benefits of working with us include:

  • Extended appointments ensuring you feel heard

  • Expert assessment including detailed history taking and objective assessment 

  • Personalised treatment plan for your symptoms and goals 

  • Education on lifestyle factors, empowering you to take control of your conditions

  • An integrated approach working closely with your healthcare team 

  • Referral to our trusted network of allied health partners when appropriate. 


Initial Rheumatology Physiotherapy consultation: 60 minutes 

Your initial consultation is longer so we have plenty of time to get to know you and obtain a detailed history of your symptoms and condition.

We will also ask about things that can affect how you feel, such as sleep, diet, mood and whether you have any other health conditions.

  • We’ll help you to understand your Rheumatology condition and make sense of symptoms.

  • We’ll check for inflammation and assess your range of movement, strength and balance.

  • You’ll receive a personalised management plan specific to you and your goals.

  • You may receive some hands-on therapy including massage, taping, or mobilisations.

  • We will recommend exercises appropriate to your condition, making sure you feel confident with these before trying them at home. You may be sent an exercise program to follow to keep progressing at home. This can be a digital version with pictures / videos, or we can print this if you prefer.

  • You will be able to ask any questions you have about your condition, assessment findings or management plan. 

Rory can also collaborate closely with your current healthcare team to maintain consistency in treatment and provide you with the most comprehensive care possible.


Follow-up Rheumatology Physiotherapy: 30 or 45 minutes 

Follow-up sessions can be 30 or 45 minutes, depending on your needs. We’ll discuss your progress, including any new issues you’re experiencing.

  • A repeat assessment will show any objective signs of improvement since your previous session.

  • We will review your goals, and update your management plan if appropriate.

  • We can adapt any exercises you may be struggling with and provide an updated written program .

  • You will be able to ask any questions you have about your condition, assessment findings or management plan.


Introducing our Rheumatology Physiotherapist - Rory McIntyre

Rory McIntyre is an experienced Physiotherapist specialising in Rheumatology and inflammatory joint pain. Rory brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise from his extensive work in both public and private sectors in Glasgow, Scotland.

Rory has worked with organisations such as the National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society as Lead Physiotherapist and NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde as a Highly Specialist Physiotherapist in Rheumatology. He holds a Master of Physiotherapy and has received training from the EULAR Healthcare Professionals in Rheumatology.


No referral needed

No referral is needed to book an appointment with Rory who is available at both our Currimundi and Forest Glen practices. Private Health Fund members with Physiotherapy cover may be eligible for a rebate. Medicare rebates are also available through Enhanced Primary Care Plans (EPC) from your GP.


Have a question? Get in touch

Please complete the form below to contact us about Rheumatology Physiotherapy. Alternatively, give our team a call on 07 5337 9853 or book online.