In 2007, receiving an APA Professional Excellence Award was a pivotal moment in my career as a physiotherapist. 

It was more than just recognition; it was a signal to push further, to explore new approaches and to seek out even better outcomes for my clients. 

The path I’ve taken since then has been one of transformation—not just in my practice but in the way I approach the profession.

The changes I’ve implemented over the years have had a significant impact on my work, my clients and my own sense of satisfaction, all within the evolving landscape of the physiotherapy industry.

The shift in my practice

A major development in my practice since 2007 has been a deliberate shift towards spending more time with each client. 

Early in my career, like many of my peers, I adhered to a high-volume, fast-paced model of care. 

While this approach had its merits, I realised that truly transformative results required a deeper, more sustained engagement with each individual. 

By dedicating more time to understanding the nuances of each client’s situation, I was able to tailor my treatments more precisely, leading to more effective and lasting outcomes. 

This approach, however, necessitated a significant change in my business model. 

To make it sustainable, I increased my fees, reflecting the higher value of the services provided. 

This was not just about financial gain—though that has been an important factor—but about aligning my work with the quality and depth of care I wanted to offer. 

Because I was charging more, I could afford to spend more time with each client, ensuring that every session was thorough, thoughtful and customised to their specific needs. 

The results are remarkable. 

Michael Ridgway.

Not only did my clients experience better outcomes, but my work satisfaction soared. 

I found that by focusing on quality over quantity, I could deliver the kind of care that truly resonated with my professional values.

This shift has enabled me to remain passionate about my work and confident that I can continue in this profession until I retire.

Additionally, the financial rewards have allowed me to thrive, creating a more balanced and fulfilling professional life.

Industry changes

The physiotherapy industry has seen several notable changes since 2007, many of which align with the direction I’ve taken in my
own practice. 

There has been a growing recognition of the need for more personalised care, with practitioners increasingly moving away from the ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach that was once prevalent. 

This trend has been supported by advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of the human body, particularly the brain’s role in pain and recovery. 

However, the Workforce Census conducted by the APA in 2023 highlighted some ongoing challenges that need to be addressed, particularly in private practice. 

The census revealed issues related to workforce satisfaction, burnout and the integration of new knowledge into practice—areas that resonate with my own experiences.

Addressing workforce challenges 

One of the key findings from the census was a high level of burnout among physiotherapists, especially those in private practice.

The demands of running a business, combined with the emotional and physical toll of patient care, can lead to significant stress. 

In my own practice, I’ve found that spending more time with each client and adjusting my fees accordingly has helped mitigate this issue. 

However, not every practitioner feels empowered to make such changes. 

To address this, the industry needs to foster environments that support work-life balance and reduce the pressure on physiotherapists to see high volumes of clients. 

Encouraging practices that prioritise quality over quantity and providing resources for mental health support are critical steps in maintaining a healthy, motivated workforce.

Expanding the scope of practice

I have seen the benefits of expanding the scope of physiotherapy to include a deeper understanding of neuroscience. 

This approach has allowed me to provide more effective treatments and address issues that traditional methods might miss.

However, the industry as a whole has been slow to adopt these changes. 

There is still a tendency to stick to familiar, conventional practices rather than exploring new, client-specific, evidence-based approaches. 

Encouraging more practitioners to embrace these advancements will require not only education but also a shift in industry culture.

We need to move away from a one-size-fits-all model of care and towards a more individualised, scientifically informed approach.

Financial viability and professional fulfilment

My decision to charge more for longer, more in-depth sessions has been key to my continued passion for the profession. 

It has allowed me to focus on what I do best without the constant strain of trying to see as many clients as possible in a day. 

The census indicated that financial viability remains a concern for many practitioners. 

By adopting a model that emphasises value rather than volume, physiotherapists can enhance client outcomes while ensuring their own financial stability and professional fulfilment.

Innovation in private practice 

Private practice offers the flexibility to innovate yet many practitioners feel constrained by traditional models of care. 

There is a need for a cultural shift within the industry, one that encourages experimentation with new approaches and supports practitioners in implementing them. 

This could involve creating more collaborative networks where physiotherapists can share insights as well as industry-led initiatives that provide the tools and training needed to integrate the latest scientific advancements into practice.

Looking ahead

Reflecting on my journey since 2007, I am struck by the progress I’ve made and the broader changes in the industry. However, there is still much to be done. 

The physiotherapy profession is at a crossroads, with the potential to significantly enhance both client outcomes and practitioner satisfaction if we continue to evolve and adapt. 

The insights from the Workforce Census are a reminder that we must prioritise the wellbeing of our practitioners alongside the care of our clients. 

By addressing issues of burnout, professional development and financial viability, we can build a stronger, more resilient industry
that attracts and retains top talent. 

My own experience has shown that it is possible to create a practice that is both professionally rewarding and financially sustainable.

Focusing on quality care, embracing continuous learning and being willing to challenge the status quo help us to ensure that physiotherapy remains a vital, dynamic profession that meets the needs of both clients and practitioners. 

As we look to the future, it is clear that the key to success lies in our ability to adapt, innovate and support one another in the pursuit of excellence. 

In doing so, we can continue to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our clients and ensure the long-term success of our profession.

>> Michael Ridgway MACP is a Titled APA Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist and the owner and principal physiotherapist of private practice Youngify in Brisbane.

COURSE OF INTEREST: Mental health, self-care and burnout: strategies and conversations to help you and your workers.