ABOUT ME - DONNA MCCOOK

With over 20 years of clinical experience in both Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology, nationally & internationally, plus a decade in research and academia, I have developed a niche expertise in exercise prescription for pain and injury recovery. 

Its that unique blend of  experiential and acquired knowledge, science, understanding and clinical reality that I translate in the courses and workshops I develop and deliver.   

Physiotherapist (MHSci Physio, PGD Manipulative Physiotherapy), 

Accredited Exercise Physiologist (PGD Clinically Applied Exercise Science),   

Exec MBA & Owner / Founder / ... of Medically Focused Fitness and Back Lab. 

My interest in exercise focused rehabilitation started in my undergraduate physiotherapy years when I developed an interest in body building. I had the opportunity to be coached by a legendary kiwi body builder - Tony Martin, who fueled my initial knowledge of strength training, technique and its potential in fitness and rehabilitation. This rapidly expanded into my clinical approach to injury and health recovery. 

Back pain & Shoulder rehab have become my primary focus, however, that is not the limit of my expertise. 

I have had amazing opportunities through my career to learn, grow and expand my skill set including working in Texas (USA) with an Upper Limb Surgeon; becoming part of the Sports Med team at the Institute of Sport (NZ); developing and delivering Living with Cancer educational courses to cancer survivors;  lecturing in Physiotherapy at UQ, facilitating the growth of a multimillion dollar allied health business; mentoring and training hundreds of allied health practitioners; attending numerous courses and conferences internationally; and more importantly - helping thousands of people recovery from their injuries. 

My research areas to date have primarily focused on the lumbar spine muscles and the influence of pain on their function. A few studies have been completed, a couple of publications and a number of international conference presentations followed. I am returning to further research studies in 2024 - re-igniting my PhD.

Currently through Medically Focused Fitness, I am focused on sharing what I have learnt through my career via the courses I have developed. I  am looking forwards to building my network and reach through my national (and international) workshops scheduled ahead. 

I also have a clinical business (BackLab) that focuses on rehab for back injuries (and a bit of everything else as the need arises) on the North side of Brisbane. It is an exercise focused approach - and I am enjoying making a solid impact on peoples lives once again. 

Few other projects on the go ... but only fun stuff. 

The life balance that can be so elusive through a career is finally here - & I am loving it.