Passionate about women’s health, and particularly about educating and empowering women to put themselves higher on their priority list, Amilia is committed to proactive care and to promoting and delivering high quality physiotherapy services for women.

Amilia graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of South Australia in 2012. Since then she has followed her passion for women’s health working in private practice in Adelaide.

Prior to completing her Physiotherapy degree, Amilia completed a Bachelor of Science at Flinders University, majoring in microbiology. It was during this degree that her son arrived, and following his birth Amilia encountered a women’s health physiotherapist, who inspired her to take up the profession.

A daughter was to follow, and soon after completing her first degree Amilia took up the huge challenge of studying Physiotherapy full time, whilst helping to run her husband’s electrical business.

Completing her Physiotherapy studies whilst caring for two small children, Amilia can empathize with so many women out there who have huge demands to meet in life, both physically and emotionally.

The recent addition of baby three, has meant Amilia’s life has not slowed down and its more important than ever to keep on top of her health and wellbeing.  Amilia feels strongly about helping her clients to realise this in their own lives, and working with them to achieve it.

Amilia is extremely keen to extend her knowledgewhenever there is an opportunity and is frequently attending professional development courses; she is trained in Dry Needling, Clinical Pilates, Continence and Women’s Health and is always looking to add more to her repertoire.

Chrissy graduated with a Masters of Physiotherapy from Flinders University in 2016 and started working in musculoskeletal physiotherapy where she developed a passion for working with women of all stages of life.

Chrissy has experience in private practice, in-patient orthopaedics and sports physiotherapy. Her love for Physiotherapy began when she was exposed to injuries whilst playing soccer. This fostered her interest in the prevention, management and treatment of injuries.

She has a passion for healthcare and is intrigued by the complexities of the human body. Employing a goal-specific and patient-centered approach is her treating philosophy. She aims to improve the quality of life and functional ability of her clients through education, exercise and hands-on therapy.

Chrissy has an interest in women’s health, empowering women to prioritize their health through the different stages of life – as well as additional training in Clinical Pilates, Dry Needling and Headache Treatment.

Outside of work, Chrissy enjoys Reformer Pilates, beach walks and socialising with family and friends.

Helping women to maintain an active lifestyle throughout their various life stages, and feel empowered about their health, are key motivators in Louise’s practice.

Graduating from King’s College London in 2008, Louise has worked in London and Adelaide across a variety of settings and clinical areas. She utilises this experience to cater for clients with a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and rehabilitation needs to get them back to doing what is important to them and feeling confident in their bodies.

Pregnancy and postnatal recovery are particular areas of interest. With young children, Louise is aware of the challenges that can be faced during these times and the benefits that can be gained from taking a holistic approach to care during these times of change in a women’s life.

Continuing to develop her knowledge and remaining current in her practice are of high importance to Louise; she undertakes regular training and professional development opportunities and has additional training in areas such as Clinical Pilates, continence and women’s health and occupational health.

Outside of work, Louise enjoys keeping active-playing netball, running and doing Pilates, in addition to getting outside with her young family and making the most of the warm Australian weather! Good food, a good book and catching up with friends are also also key at helping Louise keep life balanced.

In 2008, on obtaining her Bachelor of Physiotherapy in India, Sangeeta embarked on a diverse professional journey. She has accumulated physiotherapy experience across a range of healthcare settings, including hospitals, community environments, and private practice in India, Singapore, and Australia. Complementing her practical experience, she pursued further education, achieving a Graduate Certificate in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy from the University of South Australia in 2011.

In her journey as a musculoskeletal physio, Sangeeta soon realised the need for specific physiotherapy care across the broad spectrum of women’s health. Becoming a mother herself made her aware of the importance of pelvic health. This personal journey inspired her to take action. Sangeeta completed a Graduate Certificate program in Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy in 2022 at the University of Melbourne.

Sangeeta pelvic health skills include pregnancy and postnatal weakness, pelvic organ prolapse, urgency, urge & stress incontinence, pre & post pelvic surgery, pelvic pain, painful sex, bladder & bowel weakness.

Sangeeta continues with regular professional development to ensure she is up to date with all the recent evidence in the area of pelvic health research.

Sangeeta’s strength lies in her ability to listen to her patient’s narratives.  She ensures they feel valued, understood and empowered as they navigate their individual therapeutic journey to better health.

Outside of her work, Sangeeta enjoys spending time with her family, taking care of her two little girls, and embracing the joys and challenges of motherhood. She also plays badminton, a sport that not only keeps her active but also offers a chance to connect with friends over friendly matches.

Sophie graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of South Australia in 2019. Growing up with a love of sport, she initially saw herself pursuing a career in sports physiotherapy. However, during her early years working in private practice, she began treating pregnant and postpartum women — and quickly discovered a passion for pelvic health that would shape her career.

Sophie went on to complete her Master of Physiotherapy (Pelvic Health) at the University ofMelbourne, graduating with First Class Honours in 2025. She has also achieved APA Titling as a Women’s, Men’s & Pelvic Health Physiotherapist — recognition of advanced clinical expertise and leadership within the field of pelvic health.

In addition, Sophie holds qualifications in neuromuscular dry needling and Clinical Pilates, allowing her to integrate hands-on treatment with targeted rehabilitation strategies.

As part of her Master’s degree, Sophie conducted original research into pelvic pain and endometriosis in Adelaide — a condition she is deeply passionate about improving awareness and care for. A significant milestone was achieved through this research, with Sophie advocating for meaningful improvements in pelvic pain management within South Australia.

Sophie is committed to ongoing education and evidence-based practice, ensuring her patients receive the highest standard of care.

Sophie is passionate about supporting individuals across all stages of life to regain confidence, control and comfort in their bodies. Whether guiding women through pregnancy, supporting postpartum recovery or helping individuals navigate complex pelvic health conditions, she strives to create a safe, respectful and empowering environment for you to share your story (free of judgement!).

Her ethos extends beyond symptom relief. Sophie believes in educating, empowering and collaborating with each patient to achieve meaningful, long-lasting outcomes. She recognises that no two presentations are the same, and there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Together, you will develop an individualised management plan aligned with your goals — so you can return to doing what you love.

And yes — she is especially passionate about helping women with the fundamental three P’s of everyday life: pee, poo and pleasure.

Sophie grew up in Tanunda in the Barossa Valley, where community, connection and a love of wine were part of daily life. Growing up in a close-knit country town instilled in her the importance of kindness, support and genuine care for those around her — values she carries into her clinical work every day.

Known for her bubbly, warm and motivating personality, Sophie brings positive energy into every session. Outside the clinic, she rarely sits still — she loves keeping active, listening to music, and sharing plenty of laughs with friends and family.

Jasmine graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy, achieving First Class Honours, from the University of South Australia. Since then, she has been driven to continue expanding her knowledge in the areas of musculoskeletal and women’s health physiotherapy.

Jasmine recognises the various demands women face throughout their life stages, having a special interest in pregnancy and postnatal physiotherapy. Jasmine understands the principles of safe exercise during the childbearing years. Personal life experience stems from being a mum with young children, running a half marathon during her pregnancy and returning to exercise through the postnatal stage. Instilling confidence in women to achieve their desired goals with evidence-based treatment plans is a highlight of Jasmine’s clinical skills.

With a strong interest in Pilates and a passion for maintaining mobility and functional movement through life, Jasmine believes they are key aspects in enhancing overall well-being. Drawing on her physiotherapy skills, she utilises manual therapy, exercise prescription, and education to prevent, manage and treat various musculoskeletal presentations.

Outside of work, Jasmine prioritises family time with her husband, children and their Border Collie.

Rebecca established the Physiotherapy for Women practice in 2000. Having a special interest in the life stages of women from a health point of view, Rebecca developed a unique physiotherapy clinic, providing a combination of musculoskeletal, pelvic health and exercise therapy.

Over her many years of physiotherapy practice, Rebecca has learnt the importance of firstly listening to a client’s presenting story, along with understanding their goals – what do they actually want! This approach guides the assessment and treatment pathway, based on open communication with the client and clinically informed practice. This philosophy has enabled Rebecca to treat diverse presentations of pain, weakness and dysfunction in a woman’s body, regardless of age.

Handing on these skills to her excellent physiotherapy team within Physiotherapy for Women, was always seen as important and continues to occur. Encouraging team mentoring and continuing professional development, has enabled Rebecca to retire from clinical hands-on physiotherapy at the end of 2025, but still remain actively involved in running the business.

As Managing Director, Rebecca strives in supporting the happy physiotherapists and front desk team. The business aims for every woman coming in to the Lockley’s practice to receive excellent physiotherapy services, where open communication is first and foremost. This is vital in assisting each client to understand what is involved in their individual health journey. There will of course be times when that pathway is not always straight forward and multi-disciplinary health measures may be necessary.

Rebecca enjoys life away from work, respecting the need to find that balance between living and loving life to it’s fullest. Maintaining physical strength and agility through the aging process, has given Rebecca the chance to be active with her grandchildren and to experience the many sides that nature has to offer when gardening, bushwalking and kayaking.

Ele is Physiotherapy for Women’s part time receptionist and admin support. She believes empathy and a caring concern for all clients begins when making an appointment or asking for information on our physiotherapy services

Ele joined Physiotherapy for Women in October 2015 as a part time receptionist and admin support. She has previously worked in dental reception for many years and has extensive experience in a variety of areas as well as dealing with a wide range of diverse and interesting people.  Ele’s relaxed, happy nature combined with excellent organisation and communication skills, enables front desk to run smoothly and efficiently. Ele has a great understanding of women’s health, wellness and how important this is when women are busy juggling family, work, social and leisure commitments. Ele is committed to helping you identify and address all your physical therapy needs and ensure you get the best possible outcome for you.

Whilst being also busy raising two sons with her partner, Ele enjoys family and social gatherings around a celebratory table of home cooked food. Ele relaxes with reading, shopping and regular walking activities.

Linda has extensive experience in reception and administration having worked in allied health settings including physiotherapy, psychology and dietitian practices.

Outside of work Linda has a love of travelling and enjoys playing competitive tennis, spending time with family and friends and walking her border collie.

What does pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy mean?

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) in pregnancy can arise from the three main joints of the pelvis and the muscles, ligaments and nerves associated with these joints. There are two sacroiliac joints (SIJ) at the back of the pelvis. The SIJ exists between the sacrum and the side pelvic bone called the ilium. At the front of the pelvis is the pubic symphysis (PS).

A pregnant woman’s discomfort may come from the front PS and/or the right or left SIJ. It is possible for the pain pattern to shift day to day or week to week. It may be felt as pain on one side or it can alternate.  The pain may be felt at the front or it occurs only at the back of the pelvis.

When the pubic symphysis is involved the pelvic girdle pain is sometimes referred to as Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD).

Varying levels of pain can be felt in different areas, which may include the pubic symphysis, groin, lower abdomen, inner thigh, hip, buttock, outer thigh, entire leg or low back.

Pain may be constant or intermittent often described as an ache. Pelvic girdle pain can also be felt as a shooting/stabbing pain in the buttock, down the leg or at the front of the pelvis. Weight bearing on the leg/s may be quite difficult because of this pain experience.

Pregnancy pelvic girdle pain can occur early in the first trimester or at any time during the second and third trimesters.

What causes Pregnancy Pelvic Girdle Pain and Back Pain?

During pregnancy a combination of hormonal changes, altered posture and ineffective muscle support systems of the low back and pelvis may lead to feelings of discomfort and difficulty with walking and general movement. Hormonal softening of joint ligaments and muscle tissue means the joints and tissues of the pelvis and lumbar spine will be easily strained with repetitive activity, poor posture and incorrect exercise.  The pain occurs because the pelvic joints have difficulty transferring weight bearing forces through the pelvis due to the physical and hormonal changes in pregnancy.

Unsupportive muscle systems then overwork to try and hold the pelvis together, creating shortened, tight muscles with painful trigger points in the buttock, thigh, hip and lumbar spine. Pregnant women experiencing pelvic girdle pain will often speak of stiffness as well as pain. 

What are the Symptoms of Pregnancy Pelvic Girdle Pain?

Symptoms of pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy can be a combination of the following:

• Shuffling gait
• Difficulty weight bearing on one leg
• Difficulty climbing stairs
• Pain turning in bed
• Poor sleep with difficulty getting comfortable because of hip pain
• Inflammation or swelling over the sacrum or pubic bones
• Sciatic type pain down the leg
• Pain with long periods of sitting or standing
• Difficulty going from sit to stand
• Increased discomfort with routine daily activities
• Hip stiffness
• Pelvic floor muscle weakness

Can Pelvic Girdle Pain appear outside of Pregnancy?

Yes, pelvic girdle pain can occur in the postnatal period and is often related to a woman experiencing a small amount of buttock or hip discomfort in the last weeks of her pregnancy. In this scenario, the pregnant woman puts up with the pain in her third trimester, but after delivering the baby her pelvic joints and muscles struggle with the increased lifting, bending and holding movements that are required with baby care.

Injury can produce sacroiliac joint dysfunction and pain at any time in a woman’s life. This SIJ dysfunction has the same symptoms as pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy. The type of injury producing pelvic girdle pain is commonly a fall and landing on one side of the body or buttock. The position of the sacroiliac joint surfaces can be upset in this injury, leading to dysfunction because the transmission of weight bearing forces through the pelvis is upset.

Hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle and at the time of menopause can create muscle imbalances and hip problems that produce a pelvic girdle pain picture.

Overtraining in the gym or in sport may also produce sacroiliac joint dysfunction and pelvic girdle pain, this being related to muscle imbalance and overworking muscle systems that are not supporting the pelvic joints.

What is the Role of Physiotherapy in Treating Pelvic Girdle Pain in Pregnancy?

A physiotherapy assessment is essential to determine the treatment approach and advice for women experiencing PGP. It is recommended that an experienced Physiotherapist treats your presentation. This means a physio who knows the relevance of the musculoskeletal changes occurring in pregnancy. The Physiotherapist must have expert clinical skills in treating pelvic girdle pain with manual therapy and exercise, along with giving you the appropriate advice. This is so important in helping a woman feel better within herself.

At Physiotherapy for Women a research based Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire is given to each pregnant woman presenting with PGP. This assists in giving the physio a picture of the level of pelvic girdle pain and dysfunction the client is experiencing. The response to the questionnaire becomes a clinical measure for the effectiveness of the physiotherapy treatment approach over several treatment sessions.

The physiotherapy evaluation is important to determine what pelvic joint, ligament and muscle tissue is not working properly with specific movement testing. This will determine the cause of your pain, stiffness or loss of movement. Specialised clinical tests will be performed to rule out any problems that may require further medical intervention.

Listening to your goals and what is important to you will determine the direction of the treatment program. Physiotherapy treatment for pregnancy pelvic girdle pain may include:

• Manual therapy Massage, soft tissue and trigger point release for tight, sore muscle groups is a part of manual therapy. Correcting pelvic joint or SIJ alignment requires specific manual therapy skills, including muscle energy techniques.
• Core activation Training of pelvic floor and transversus abdominis muscle activation is important in resetting a background of core muscle support around your pelvis and lumbar spine. Selecting the right positions for core exercise is necessary. Then progression of the exercise can occur with graded loading that is safe and appropriate for you.
• Strengthening exercises Reducing ligament sprain and pain in your pregnant pelvis requires strengthening of weak gluteal, lower abdominal and pelvic floor muscles to improve stability of the sacroiliac, pubic symphysis and spinal joints.
• Flexibility exercises Tight muscles often need to be stretched to improve your flexibility, but selection and timing of when these stretches start requires the skills of the physio. If an overworking muscle system is stretched too soon before a background of core muscle support is happening in the pregnant woman’s body, pelvic joint pain can increase.
• Modalities To alleviate pain or to soften tight muscles prior to treatment or exercise, hot or cold treatments are often prescribed. Electrical treatments can also be a choice of treatment. Small ice packs placed over a painful pubic symphysis may be instructed by the physio as a home treatment.
• Bracing Your physio may recommend wearing a pregnancy pelvic belt that needs to be correctly fitted to support the pelvic ring. Specific taping with either rigid tape or kinesiology tape may be chosen to better support the SIJ’s and dampen trigger point activity in muscles. Wearing pregnancy support shorts, such as SRC, may be suggested to provide necessary pelvic and low back support in daily activities and at work.
• Education Your physio will teach you postural correction, back support in sitting, how to improve your general movement approaches in daily activity and how to carry or lift light objects safely. This information will assist in making you feel more comfortable. Being encouraged to have a daily rest may also be advised.

The earlier you seek physiotherapy treatment for pelvic girdle pain symptoms the better it is for you. Treating the pelvic joint niggle or slight buttock/hip muscle ache is preferred, as you can take the physios advice home with you and make your pregnancy a happier time in general. Thinking pelvic girdle pain is simply a part of pregnancy and nothing can be done for this condition is incorrect. However, it is true that in severe cases of PGP in pregnancy women are unable to walk short distances without using crutches or a walking frame. So please be wise and take the healthy approach by seeking out the skills of Physiotherapists working with pregnant women.