Aquatic Physiotherapy & Hydrotherapy Brisbane

Medicare and private health at Hydrotherapy Brisbane

What is hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy (also known as aquatic physiotherapy) is a form of exercise and rehabilitation performed in warm water. The natural buoyancy of water supports your body, reduces joint pressure, and allows for smooth, pain-free movement — making it ideal for people with injuries, arthritis, chronic pain, or limited mobility.

At Hydrotherapy Brisbane, our two purpose-built pools are maintained at different temperatures. The shallower rehab pool is approximately 34°C to create a comfortable environment for pain management, slower movement and exercise, and 30°C in our deep water running pool, for those working at a harder pace.

The combination of warmth, buoyancy, and resistance allows you to:

  • Relieve pain and muscle tension
  • Improve strength, flexibility, and balance
  • Rebuild confidence and mobility after injury or surgery
  • Enhance circulation and joint range of motion
  • Exercise safely with less strain on the body

Hydrotherapy is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or looking to stay active with less joint load, aquatic physiotherapy can help you move with confidence.

One-on-One Hydrotherapy Treatment

At Hydrotherapy Brisbane, our one-on-one physiotherapy treatment sessions are tailored to your individual needs. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to improve your mobility and strength, our experienced physiotherapists create a program just for you.

Each session is unique to you and could combine hydrotherapy (aquatic physiotherapy) and land-based physiotherapy ensuring a holistic approach that supports recovery, reduces pain, and improves overall function. We’ll work with you to understand your needs, and preferences, when we’re creating your physio management plan.

Benefits of one-on-one therapy:

Individualised assessment and treatment

Focused support for complex disability, injury rehabilitation, chronic pain, or mobility improvement

Tailored hydrotherapy and/or land-based exercises

Flexible scheduling to suit your lifestyle

Each session focuses on gradual progression, helping you move toward greater independence – whether that’s remaining in individual sessions, transitioning to group classes or managing your own program.

Group Hydrotherapy Sessions

Our hydrotherapy classes at Hydrotherapy Brisbane offer a supportive, small-group environment for people of all ages and abilities. Led by our expert physiotherapists, these classes combine aquatic exercise and physiotherapy guidance to improve strength, core, balance, flexibility, and overall wellness.

Classes are ideal for:

  • Maintaining mobility and preventing injuries
  • Chronic pain management (arthritis, back pain, fibromyalgia)
  • Post-surgery or injury rehabilitation
  • Managing diabetes with exercise
  • Fitness and independence for older adults
  • Social and supportive exercise, and fitness for older adults


We do however recommend that if you have a specific problem (eg back, hip or knee pain) the best evidence based approach is to initially see a physiotherapist individually to get a management plan designed for your needs. The physiotherapist will suggest when it is appropriate that you start classes. Classes are generic, so may not provide the best outcome for everyone all of the time.

Types of Classes Offered

Bookings are essential for all classes as places are limited:

Balance & Mobility (Shallow Pool)

When: Wednesdays at 1pm

Our shallow pool Balance & Mobility class is ideal for beginners or those with acute arthritis and mobility challenges. Held in the warm, shallow water, this class incorporates gentle:

  • Strength exercises
  • Core and balance activities
  • Functional movement and gait training

It’s perfect for participants looking to improve mobility, increase confidence in the water, and safely strengthen their body.

Physio-Fit (Deep Pool)

When: Monday at 12 noon, Wednesday at 6pm

Our deep water Physio-Fit class offers a no-impact fitness option for participants with a reasonable level of water confidence. Classes are led by physiotherapists and support people with a range of conditions, including:

  • Arthritis
  • Joint replacements
  • Fusions and laminectomies
  • Mental health & wellbeing
  • Other musculoskeletal or neurological conditions

Participants often progress from individual sessions to these group classes, building up to an hour of deep water activity. These classes are a key goal for many of our clients looking to improve fitness, strength, and independence.

Deep Water Running

Independent Deep water running sessions are available for clients who have completed a Physio-Fit class or been assessed by a physiotherapist. These sessions allow for vigorous, no-impact exercise that:

  • Improves cardio-vascular fitness, muscle strength, and core stability
  • Supports rehabilitation while remaining gentle enough for injured participants
  • Can challenge elite athletes seeking high-intensity, low-impact training

Book a self-managed PEP session (Prescribed Exercise Program) to continue your progress independently.

Aqua-Mums post-pregnancy class

Our post-pregnancy program is designed to help new mothers regain strength, fitness, and core stability after childbirth. Once cleared by your doctor, you can join our Physio-Fit class to safely return to exercise and work toward pre-pregnancy fitness levels.

Self-Managed Hydrotherapy

Our self-managed physiotherapy programs empower you to take control of your health and mobility. After a comprehensive consultation with a physiotherapist, and several individual physiotherapy sessions, if appropriate you’ll receive a tailored hydrotherapy program that you can complete independently at our facility and if appropriate a land-based home exercise plan.

These programs are perfect for:

  • Long-term maintenance of pain, mobility and balance
  • Injury prevention and rehabilitation
  • Flexible access to hydrotherapy pool though bookings essential
  • Clients who prefer independent exercise with professional guidance
  • Athletic performance recovery

Benefits of Self-Managed Programs:

Personalised programs created by experienced physiotherapists.

Access to a purpose built hydrotherapy pool & equipment.

Tailored ongoing support and adjustments as needed and/or land-based exercises

Ideal for clients wanting to improve their fitness and general wellness in a supportive environment.

Book an Aquatic Physiotherapy Session in Brisbane

Hydrotherapy Brisbane offers state-of-the-art aquatic physiotherapy in Brisbane’s north, combining modern facilities, warm pools, and experienced physiotherapists to help you move, strengthen, and recover with confidence.

Located at Robinson Road Marketplace, Aspley, with easy lift access and ample parking. Contact us today to book your initial assessment or learn more about our hydrotherapy options.

Bhumiraphee Foongkajornkiat (Phum)

As an emerging physiotherapist, Phum brings a fresh perspective, enthusiasm, and a commitment to lifelong learning. He enjoys combining the latest research with hands-on clinical care and is always looking for innovative ways to help clients achieve the best possible outcomes.

Phum has experience working with a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, neurological rehabilitation, cardiorespiratory conditions, and hydrotherapy. He particularly enjoys using hydrotherapy to help people improve their strength, mobility, balance, and confidence in a supportive, low-impact environment.

Alongside his clinical work, he is actively involved in medical research, with projects focusing on medical imaging and artificial intelligence in healthcare. His research experience strengthens his commitment to evidence-based practice and ensures his treatment approaches reflect current best evidence.

Outside of work, Phum enjoys going to the gym, training Muay Thai (and watching), dancing, playing the violin and is an avid reader.

Ashleigh Berger

Ashleigh graduated from Australian Catholic University in 2025, and brings one year of physiotherapy experience in aged care and disability.

She enjoys utilising aquatic physiotherapy and exercise to support people of all ages, with particular interests in neurological rehabilitation, disability, paediatrics, aged care and neurodiversity.

Her approach focuses on functional rehabilitation, using goal‑driven exercise and education to help clients improve strength, balance, function and independence.

Outside of work, Ashleigh enjoys reading, crochet, walking her dogs, and staying active through gym and Pilates.

Susan Patel

Susan takes great pride in being the friendly face behind the scenes at Hydrotherapy Brisbane.

As the Facilities Caretaker Susan keeps our facilities clean and operational, ensuring a comfortable environment for everyone.

Away from work Susan enjoys wine tastings, hanging out with her sons and chasing the family dog around.

Annabelle Connellan

Annabelle joined us in November 2025 and loves being a part of Hydrotherapy Brisbane. She is currently a 2nd year Physiotherapy student at ACU and is passionate about pursuing her future career in the field.

Annabelle enjoys customer service and building relationships with patients, ensuring they feel acknowledged, welcomed and safe on arrival. Working with us has further strengthened her enthusiasm for physiotherapy and her future as a clinician.

Outside of work, Annabelle enjoys staying active, spending time with family and friends, and maintaining a healthy balance between study and work.

Anne Baker

Anne has worked at Hydrotherapy Brisbane for 4 years.

She enjoys the customer service aspect of this receptionist position and the opportunity to interact with the wonderful diversity of clients that attend our practice.

After years working in Allied Health, Construction and Education Industries she is enjoying working in this Aquatic Physiotherapy environment.
Travel to Canada, Western Australia and Tasmania to spend time with family is her happy place.

Emma Taylor

With six years of experience in allied health, Emma thrives on the variety of supporting both her team and her clients.

She is dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming environment at Hydrotherapy Brisbane and finds genuine fulfillment in watching patients achieve their health goals.

Outside of the clinic, Emma loves unwinding with a good book, heading off on camping adventures, or catching up with friends and family on the weekend.

Eliza Tayag

Eliza brings over seven years of experience in allied health, having previously worked as a Practice Manager and Massage Therapist for a multi-modality Clinic.

She has been a valued member of Hydrotherapy Brisbane since the end of 2023. She is dedicated, compassionate, and approachable, with a strong commitment to delivering high-quality customer service.

Outside of her professional role, Eliza is a band singer and co-owns a body art business with her partner. She enjoys listening to music, shopping and spending time with her family and beloved dogs.

Linda Savage

Linda is passionate about creating a welcoming, organised, and supportive environment for clients, families, and staff.

As Practice Manager, she oversee the day-to-day operations of our physiotherapy practice, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently. She coordinates reception services, and helps clients access the funding and services they need with ease. She enjoys being a trusted point of contact for clients, referrers, funding bodies and community partners.

She supports our therapists by managing schedules, maintaining records, overseeing office systems, and assisting with administrative and financial tasks. Linda hopes every client has a positive experience and receives the highest standard of care.

Outside of work Linda loves spending time with family and friends especially camping in the family caravan.

Helen Ludford

Helen has many years experience working in a variety of areas but focused on rehabilitation. Initially gaining experience in hospitals, Helen’s special interest has moved to Aged Care and Hydrotherapy, or more correctly Physiotherapy in water!

Her interest and goal is keeping people moving as well as possible for as long as possible.

When not working, movement is still her interest … “Dance” is her sport!!

Caleb McKee

After graduating, Caleb travelled Australia’s East Coast, helping people of all ages overcome challenges and improve their quality of life through physiotherapy. He founded a rehabilitation and telehealth business, gaining extensive experience managing a wide range of conditions.

Caleb has a strong interest in working with adults and children with neurological conditions, chronic pain, sports and work related injuries. He supports patients through injury prevention, pre and post-operative rehabilitation, and long-term health and wellness. He combines hands-on therapy, education and tailored exercise programs, including progressive resistance training and aquatic therapy.

He has a keen interest in movement-based rehabilitation.
Outside of work, Caleb enjoys reading, gym training, bushwalking, and exploring new bakeries with family and friends.

Raine Mitchelson

Raine is one of our youngest (but brightest) physios, who has been working in the musculoskeletal and neurological space for 5 years now.

She currently works with a wide range of people including both adults and children, people with disabilities and the elderly. Her interests include women’s health, dance physiotherapy and Pilates.

She is also experienced in dry needling and headache treatment. Her hobbies include reading, playing games and exercise.

Matthew Wright

Matthew is passionate about helping his clients through their recovery journey, applying client focused treatment and personalised recovery plans.

Matthew is an experienced physiotherapist who works with clients of all ages. He has special interests in Aquatic physiotherapy, lower back pain and dysfunction, chronic pain, neurodiversity and Men’s health.

Matthew utilises a variety of modalities including Aquatic physiotherapy, dry needling, manual therapies and therapeutic exercise to help his clients achieve their best possible result and return to function .

Zac Thompson

Zac has been a long-time member of the staff with over 7 years’ experience as a physiotherapist and 5 years specifically for Hydrotherapy Brisbane.

He likes treating people of all ages with all types of disabilities and injuries, focusing his interests on Paediatrics and Neurological interventions in particular. Zac incorporates recent evidence-based treatment with a healthy dose of humour to make your physio sessions as effective and fun as possible – especially for the kids.

He’s a new dad himself, so his repertoire of songs and games is growing faster than ever. When describing himself, Zac would confidently call himself an ‘active nerd’ – mixing a blend of nerdy culture and fitness to help build a strong rapport with patients of all ages.

Ruth Steele

Ruth originally hails from Adelaide where she graduated with a strong foundation in musculoskeletal physiotherapy.

Over a career span of more than 30 years, her journey has taken her across a variety of clinical settings, with aquatic physiotherapy remaining a consistent & valued focus throughout.

She previously held a senior role in the hydrotherapy pool within the physiotherapy department while working at the Sydney Adventist Hospital, where she also had the privilege of working extensively within a multidisciplinary team in the area of cancer care & lymphoedema management.

Outside of work, Ruth loves bushing walking, music, & most of all gathering family & friends around the table for good food, conversation & connection.

Gretchen Bryan

Gretchen Bryan is a physiotherapist who graduated from the University of Queensland in 1995, with an early focus on hydrotherapy.

She began her career at Ryde Hospital before moving into private practice in Brisbane, where she developed expertise in manual therapies and musculoskeletal treatment. Since joining Hydrotherapy Brisbane in 2008 (relocating to Aspley in 2013), she has specialised in hydrotherapy while maintaining strong land-based skills. She further expanded her expertise in 2017 with certification in Manual Lymphatic Drainage.

Gretchen is dedicated to high-quality, patient-focused care, combining clinical skill with a warm, supportive approach. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active and spending time with family, friends, and her dogs.

Clare Martinac

Clare is an experienced physiotherapist who over the course of her career has developed extensive expertise across musculoskeletal, orthopedic, and neurological physiotherapy. For more than twenty years, she has focused her practice on aquatic physiotherapy, where she is recognised for her depth of knowledge and commitment to high‑quality care.

Clare has completed Levels 1–3 of the Australian Physiotherapy Association’s Aquatic Physiotherapy Courses and currently serves as the Queensland Chair of the Aquatic Special Interest Group. She is passionate about creating tailored opportunities for clients to succeed in the water and empowering them to become as self‑sufficient as possible in managing pain and movement challenges.

Outside of work, Clare enjoys hiking, reading, jazz, and spending time with her family.