Salim Mashaal is a physiotherapist working at both our Casula and Narellan clinics. He is passionate about helping his patients work through aches and niggles, right through to the more severe injuries. As a kid, Salim has had his fair share of injuries, so he knows what it's like to require a physiotherapist!
Salim's interest in physiotherapy started with his own injuries, primarily from soccer and weightlifting. He found that the more sport he played, the worst things got! What moved the needle for Salim, was starting from scratch and learning how to move correctly again. This is now a core philosophy for his practice - move smarter, not harder!
Salim has completed numerous post-graduate courses:
Sports Trainer Level 1
Sports Taping
Workcover accreditation
What made you decide to become a physiotherapist?
There are many reasons why I have become a physiotherapist. However, my earliest memory of wanting to become a physiotherapist begins when I just finished high-school and was suffering from left shoulder pain whilst bench pressing at the gym. It would make me feel extremely insecure and depressed that I couldn't train the way I wanted to. I went to multiple physiotherapists and felt like I wasn't heard, I was told I needed to do more upper back work, or that I needed to stretch my chest, and was given generic exercises without knowing why. After doing my own research, I was able to treat my pain and take responsibility for my own health, and I wish to empower others like this too.
What do you love most about your job?
I love the fact that I'm able to create a connection with people and learn their story, because I believe everyone has a story. Only then can I empower them to take responsibility of their health, and guide them to treating their conditions, or problems, or helping them reach their goals.
Why should a new patient decide to choose you?
I believe a big reason a patient would see me or refer a friend to me is because I will always listen to their problem, and get the full picture, before treating the patient. This allows me to find the cause of the problem, and not just the symptoms. I'd also like to think I'm easy to get along with, so physiotherapy sessions don't have to feel like doctor's appointments, but rather, more like catching up with a friend (who will also treat your pain)!
What do you enjoy doing when you're not working?
I enjoy playing sports such as tennis and basketball, going to the gym, hanging out with friends and loved ones, as well as up-skilling and continuing to learn more about physiotherapy; this includes taking up courses, reading books, articles, peer-reviewed papers, etc. Once I've finished all this, then I do like to enjoy some video games as a reward, ask me about which video games I play during our session if you also enjoy video games!
What do you enjoy about Narellan and the community?
I love how close-knit the Narellan community is, when I get multiple referrals from the same family, I'm made to feel like a part of that family. I also enjoy how easy going the community is, so we are able to have a laugh in our sessions as well as get serious when needed to help you sort out your aches and pains.
