Melissa Macdonald is the founder of Pottsville & Cabarita Physiotherapy and has been helping people move better, feel stronger and live with less pain for almost 30 years.
With a special interest in headaches, migraines, jaw pain and neck pain, Melissa combines deep clinical experience with a strong belief in strength, resilience and long-term health.
We sat down with Melissa to learn more about what drives her and why she still loves what she does after nearly three decades in practice.
What made you become a Physiotherapist?
I graduated from The University of Queensland in 1997, but my interest in the human body started long before that.
I’ve always been fascinated by how movement influences health — and how pain can quietly change someone’s whole personality and confidence.
Over time, I realised that Physio isn’t just about fixing injuries. It’s about helping people feel like themselves again.
When someone gets their life back from chronic headaches or persistent pain, that’s powerful.
What areas of Physio are you most passionate about?
Headaches, migraines, jaw pain and neck pain.
They are often misunderstood, misdiagnosed and poorly managed.
I’ve undertaken extensive postgraduate training including through the Watson Headache® Institute and have spent years refining my approach.
Headache sufferers are often told:
- “Your scans are clear.”
- “It’s just stress.”
- “You’ll just have to live with it.”
You often talk about the nervous system — why is that important?
Because pain is not just structural.
The nervous system plays a huge role — especially in persistent headaches and neck pain.
Stress, hormonal shifts, poor sleep, overload — these all influence how sensitive our system becomes.
I’m deeply interested in the intersection between:
- Biomechanics
- Strength
- Hormones
- The nervous system
- Lifestyle load
You can’t treat one piece in isolation.
💡 What’s your approach to treatment?
Clear diagnosis first.
Education second.
Then progressive, structured rehab.
I use a combination of hands-on therapy, specific joint techniques, exercise, and strength-based rehabilitation, lots of education and lifestyle advice – my approach is very holistic.
I don’t just want someone pain-free today.
I want them stronger in 10 years.
How does Pilates fit into your model?
Pilates is the bridge between treatment and long term solutions.
We treat the pain first.
Then we address the drivers or causative factors.
That’s why our clinic evolved into a Physio-led Clinical Strength & Rehab Studio.
Pain management is step one.
Strength and confidence are the goal.
What’s the biggest mistake people make with headaches?
Waiting too long.
And assuming headaches are “normal.”
If you’re having regular headaches, migraines, jaw pain or neck stiffness, that is your body asking for help.
The earlier we assess it properly, the better the outcomes.
What do you love most about your clinic?
The culture.
We have built something that genuinely cares about long-term outcomes — not quick fixes.
I love mentoring younger physios, refining clinical pathways and continually learning. After almost 30 years, I’m still curious.
That curiosity keeps me passionate.
What do you love outside of work?
I love to surf, beach walk, hike, snow ski, stand up paddle board and dig in my vegetable garden.
Time with my family is everything.
Movement, nature and connection are what refill my cup — and probably why I care so much about helping others stay active as they age.
Quick Fire Round
Early bird or night owl? → Early (mostly!)
Beach or mountains? → Both I love all nature
Pilates or gym? → Strength with intention – Pilates all the way
Coffee order? → espresso straight up
Biggest recovery tool? → Sleep + nervous system regulation
What would you say to someone struggling with persistent headaches?
You don’t have to accept it.
There are answers.
There are strategies.
And there is a way forward.
You deserve to feel clear-headed and strong.
Book with Melissa
If you are experiencing headaches, migraines, jaw pain or neck pain, Melissa would love to help.