David Thwaites
B. Physio, Masters Research
Director, Physiotherapist
Special Interests: Knee, Osteoarthritis, Tendinopathy, Low Back Pain
Hi, I’m Dave.
I am an experienced physiotherapist who is passionate about developing strong therapeutic relationships and empowering patients through education and exercise-based rehabilitation. With extensive experience across a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, I have developed a particular interest in exercise rehabilitation of the knee, challenging tendinopathies, and persistent low back pain. My interest in knee conditions guided me into a Masters by Research at La Trobe University, which I completed in 2024. My research explored the efficacy of treatment of patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA), and how people with PFOA make decisions about their treatment. I am also a tutor for GLA:D Hip and Knee, and GLA:D Back Australia, teaching on courses through La Trobe and Macquarie Universities. I am a keen runner and enjoy hitting the pavement around Geelong and along the trails of the Surf Coast.
Clinical Focus Areas
David has advanced experience and specific interest in treating:
- Knee Osteoarthritis – Patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA), tibiofemoral osteoarthritis, GLA:D program delivery and management.
- Patellofemoral Pain – Anterior knee pain, patellar instability, and rehabilitation following patellofemoral joint surgery.
- ACL Injury Rehabilitation – Pre-operative and post-operative ACL reconstruction rehabilitation, return-to-sport testing and planning.
- Tendinopathy – Achilles, patellar, hamstring and gluteal tendinopathies, including complex and persistent presentations.
- Running Injuries – Load management, biomechanical assessment and exercise-based rehabilitation for recreational and competitive runners.
- Persistent Low Back Pain – Education-centred and exercise-based approaches to chronic spinal pain.
Advanced Skills & Methods
David utilises specific evidence-based tools to optimise recovery:
- GLA:D Program Delivery – Certified GLA:D tutor, delivering structured exercise and education programs for hip and knee osteoarthritis.
- Exercise Prescription – Individually tailored, progressive rehabilitation programs grounded in current evidence.
- Patient Education – Emphasis on empowering patients with the knowledge to self-manage and make informed treatment decisions.
Research & Publications
David is actively involved in clinical research, with a focus on improving outcomes for people with knee pain and osteoarthritis.
- Macri, E.M., Hart, H.F., Thwaites, D., Barton, C.J., Crossley, K.M., Bierma-Zeinstra, S.M.A., & van Middelkoop, M. (2020). “Medical Interventions for Patellofemoral Pain and Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, 9(11), 3397.
- Masters Thesis (Completed 2024) – “Alignment of Treatment Decisions of People With Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis With Current Evidence.” La Trobe University.
Career Highlights
- Director, Complete Physio Exercise Performance.
- GLA:D Australia Tutor – Teaching physiotherapists nationally through La Trobe and Macquarie Universities.
- Masters by Research (Completed 2024) – La Trobe University – Patellofemoral osteoarthritis research.
Outside the Clinic
Outside of the clinic, David is a keen runner who enjoys hitting the pavement around Geelong and exploring the trails along the Surf Coast. His personal experience as a runner fuels his passion for helping others stay active and overcome injury. David also coaches junior football at St Mary’s football club in Geelong, and like any parent, enjoys watching his kids play sport!
