Meet Kai – The Story Behind Obsidian Physiotherapy

Firefighter in full gear, including helmet and oxygen mask, taking a selfie during a rescue operation at a building fire.

From Firefighter to Physiotherapist

I never planned to be a physiotherapist. I started my career in firefighting, drawn to the adrenaline, discipline, and purpose of helping people in life-or-death situations.

Then, life changed.

I was hit head-on by a drunk driver while riding my motorcycle. Surviving was one thing. Recovering was another.

After 14 months of rehab, I defied expectations and returned to firefighting, later training as a hazmat specialist. But the experience left me with a new perspective on pain, movement, and recovery—one that I couldn’t ignore.

A man wearing a black graduation cap and gown with a blue and white academic hood, smiling outdoors in bright sunlight.

My Journey Into Physiotherapy

Rehabilitation became an obsession. I was fascinated by how the body heals, how movement influences recovery, and how pain isn’t just physical—it’s psychological, emotional, and deeply personal.

So, I pursued a Bachelor’s in Exercise & Sports Science, working with sporting teams to refine movement patterns, prevent injuries, and optimize performance. But I wanted to do more—so I went on to complete my Master’s in Physiotherapy at the University of Canberra.

After graduating, I moved to Wollongong to work in private practice, treating neurological conditions, disabilities, chronic pain, and mental health-related conditions. I saw firsthand how stress, trauma, and mindset played a massive role in pain and healing—a realization that shaped my entire approach to physiotherapy.

Portrait of a smiling man with glasses, short dark hair, wearing a black collared shirt, in front of a yellow background with his social media handle '@theptsdphysio' displayed at the bottom.

The PTSD Physio

I started @theptsdphysio on Instagram because I saw a massive gap in how we talk about pain.

My area of interest?
Chronic pain, mental health-related pain, stress-based conditions, and the mind-body connection.

Most people think pain is just physical. But the nervous system, your mental health, and even your past experiences play a huge role in how pain shows up—and how it stays.

Through this platform, I aim to:

  • Educate people about pain neuroscience, nervous system regulation, and movement

  • Normalise conversations around mental health in rehab settings

  • Share mindset shifts, psychological insights, and tools that help you feel less broken and more empowered

I share my personal lived experiences. I keep it real, relatable, and research-backed, with a bit of dry humour thrown in—because healing doesn’t always have to be serious.

Want to learn more?