Dziila Mao
BPhty (Hons), APAM
Trained Watson Headache® Practitioner
Biography
Meet Dziila Mao, our headache clinician with a special interest in concussions, whiplash, neck-related conditions as well as, headaches and migraines. Dziila is passionate about helping people better understand their symptoms and takes a holistic approach to care that considers the individual as a whole.
Dziila holds a Bachelor of Physiotherapy with Honours from The University of Queensland. As part of her Honours degree, she completed research investigating vestibulo-ocular function in sufferers with concussion, which further developed her interest in the relationship between the cervical spine, vestibular system and headaches.
Since graduating, she has continued to develop her clinical knowledge through further education in headache and neck-related conditions, including training in the Watson Headache® Approach. She is also trained in dry needling, pain physiotherapy and sports physiotherapy. She is committed to ongoing professional development and continually expanding her clinical knowledge to provide high-quality, individualised care.
Credibility
Dziila completed her Bachelor of Physiotherapy with Honours at The University of Queensland. Her clinical experience along with her thesis work, has allowed her to work with a broad range of musculoskeletal presentations, while developing a particular interest in concussion, the cervical spine, headaches, migraines, whiplash and vestibular-related conditions.
She has continued to build on her clinical knowledge through postgraduate training, including the Watson Headache® Approach, GEMt Dry Needling Level 1, APA Pain Physiotherapy Levels 1 and 2, and APA Sports Physiotherapy Level 1.
Philosophy
Dziila believes that effective physiotherapy starts with understanding the person behind the symptoms. She takes a holistic and individualised approach to treatment, recognising that each person’s symptoms, lifestyle, goals and circumstances are different.
Dziila works collaboratively with her patients to understand what may be contributing to their presentation and develop a treatment plan that is both clinically appropriate and realistic for their day-to-day life. Her approach combines detailed assessment, hands-on treatment, exercise, education and self-management strategies.
With a particular interest in headaches, migraines, concussion and neck-related conditions, Dziila is passionate about helping patients understand their symptoms and feel more confident in managing their condition. Ultimately, she aims to work alongside each patient to achieve meaningful improvements that are sustainable beyond the clinic.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) – The University of Queensland
- Watson Headache® Practitioner Training
- Level I Watson Headache® Foundation Course
- GEMt Dry Needling – Level 1
- “Trigger Point Dry Needling – Applications for Pain Management and Sports Injuries” Level 1 Foundations
- APA Pain Physiotherapy Level 1 & 2
- APA Sports Physiotherapy Level 1
Fun Facts about Dziila
Outside of the clinic, Dziila loves staying active and spending time outdoors under the sun. She enjoys running along the river, heading to the beach and surfing whenever she gets the chance.
She also plays social soccer with her friends, combining her love of sport with plenty of fun and friendly competition.
When she’s not being active, Dziila is happiest with a good coffee and a good book. She loves unwinding with good music, a great read and a coffee in hand.
