Dunedin physiotherapist Gail Hyland is a skilled problem solver in the field of Women's Health.
Gail graduated from the School in 1981, and spent some years working in musculoskeletal physiotherapy in both public and private sectors. Owning and operating a busy physiotherapy practice gave her a real appreciation of key factors which influence the effective delivery of therapy in our communities.
Real expertise
Since joining the School's clinical staff in 2012, Gail has developed a keen interest in helping to advance strategies found useful with the assessment of the complex inter-relationships between the organs, musculoskeletal systems and nerves. Her clinical work deals with the assessment and treatment of bladder and bowel issues, pelvic and abdominal pain, pelvic girdle pain, pregnancy-related back pain, pelvic organ prolapse and sexual dysfunction.
She tells us that the opportunity to forge ahead with flexible Masters level study at Otago, alongside her clinical work is a major factor in the satisfaction she gains from her practice. “Because I'm working in an environment that relies on research-informed practice, I'm interacting with colleagues which helps me to generate new ideas and find better treatments for the patients I work with”
Research driven clinical practice
Dunedin is a university city, and the School has long established teaching links to the Dunedin Hospital. As a result, Gail has been able to take the insights gained from her past experience as part of a multidisciplinary physiotherapy and urogynaecology team, and build them into her earlier research which dealt with the prevention and treatment of pelvic organ prolapse.
“Being able to study postgraduate papers relating to incontinence, pain management and research methods prepared me well for my research thesis about experiences of pelvic floor muscle exercises for pelvic organ prolapse”
Gail's experience and expertise make her a leader in the provision of better health outcomes for New Zealand women.
Gail Hyland has a Masters in Health Science, a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science, and a Diploma in Physiotherapy (all from Otago).
You can learn more about Womens Health services at the School of Physiotherapy Clinics here