Eager to continue his professional development as a physiotherapist, Damien travelled to Australia, a leader in the world of Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine and successfully completed a Master's Degree in Manual Therapy at UWA. While there, it was hard not to admire the Aussie approach to physio, sport and general wellness and he continues to utilise these philosophies back home in the UK.
Damien has worked in elite sports over the last 10 years, working with Wasps Rugby in London as a full-time Physiotherapist with the first-team squad, Bath rugby and has progressed to current roles as Physiotherapist and Performance Coach in Formula 1 and Pro Golf. He also set up Physica Health, private clinics in health clubs in West London and Mayfair that specialise in sports injuries as well as general rehabilitation.
Working with athletes in Formula 1, Pro Golf, and Rugby
My passion is Physiotherapy and Sports Performance. This allows me to use what I have learned to make small but meaningful differences in people's daily lives, whether that is improving pain and function in regular tasks or improving performance in elite sports.
I have been privileged to have the opportunity to use these skills on the world stage working with athletes in Formula 1, Pro Golf, and Rugby. With best evidence always changing and progressing in my profession, I plan to continue learning and evolving my practice to optimise my clients' care.
Excitment on the sidelines
The most interesting part of my career has been the experiences brought about by my work in elite sport. From being on the grid at the start of a formula one race to working pitchside in a rugby stadium, there is nothing better than the buzz that comes with live sport. I have also loved the travel associated with my job allowing me to see places and meet people in parts of the world I may otherwise have never had the chance to visit.
Moving from the UK to UWA
My time at UWA was a fantastic experience. Having studied in Ireland and the UK, the opportunity to visit Australia and study in Perth really opened my eyes to the importance of seeing other parts of the world, getting fresh perspectives and broadening my horizons. I chose to make the journey from the UK as I knew Australia, and Perth in particular, are renowned as leaders in the area of Physiotherapy and home to many experts in their field. I was not disappointed and felt my course, tutors and the UWA campus provided us with a positive, supportive and challenging (in the best way) environment.
The benefits of my UWA degree
My UWA degree advanced my knowledge and understanding of musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. However perhaps more importantly it improved my critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills which can help decision making in many areas from how to treat a specific issue or injury with a client to reflection and analysis of broader Physiotherapy/Performance approaches and best evidence.
As with any degree it did not and should not give you all the answers but I feel my degree has certainly provided me with tools to assist with critical analysis and problem-solving for years to come, benefiting me and the outcomes of my patients and clients.