Second Opinion Service | Specialist Physiotherapy Review

Some musculoskeletal problems don't follow the usual path. Pain persists, the diagnosis is unclear, or treatment has stalled despite everyone's best efforts. Our Second Opinion Service offers a one-off review with Dr Doug Cary, PhD, a Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist, to bring fresh clarity and a practical plan forward.

This level of specialist review is usually only available in the city. We offer it here in Esperance, so regional patients can get expert input without the long trip to Perth.

What is a Specialist Physiotherapy Review?

A Specialist Physiotherapy Review is an in-depth, one-hour consultation focused on understanding complex or persistent musculoskeletal problems. It does not replace your current care. Instead, it adds a specialist perspective to help you, your doctor and your treating therapist decide on the best way forward.

Specialist Physiotherapists hold the highest level of clinical recognition in Australian physiotherapy. The Australian College of Physiotherapists awards the title after postgraduate study, years of advanced clinical practice, and a rigorous specialisation program that includes research, teaching, and mentoring.

Meet Dr Doug Cary PhD Doug shirt light

Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist · Fellow of the Australian College of Physiotherapists

Doug combines specialist clinical expertise with research and professional leadership. In addition to seeing patients in Esperance, he provides second opinions for physiotherapists and insurers and prepares medico-legal reports for AHPRA and legal firms.

His current work includes:

  • PACE Rural – specialist clinician in the PACE Rural research project
  • Sleep and pain – Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) representative on the steering committee for integrating cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBTi) into musculoskeletal care
  • Second opinions – independent review of complex cases for GPs, physiotherapists and insurers
  • Medico-legal reporting – independent expert reports for AHPRA and legal firms
  • Teaching & Mentoring - through his education company AAP Education

This mix of hands-on clinical work, research and reporting means patients benefit from current evidence, applied to their individual situation.

Who is the service for?

A Specialist Physiotherapy Review can help if you:

  • have a complex problem, or pain that is limiting activities you value
  • don't have a clear diagnosis
  • have tried other treatments without success
  • would like a second opinion before considering an injection or surgery
  • want to make the most of your recovery
  • simply aren't sure where to turn next

Conditions commonly reviewed

  • Persistent (chronic) pain
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Tendon pain
  • Nerve-related pain
  • Complex or multi-site musculoskeletal problems

Most patients are referred by their GP, treating physiotherapist, insurer, or workplace representative. You are also welcome to contact us directly to ask whether a review is right for you.

What happens at your appointment

Your review is a one-hour consultation in a relaxed, confidential setting. You'll have time to explain your problem in your own words and talk through what you've already tried.

Doug will then carry out a comprehensive clinical examination to establish:

  1. An evidence-informed diagnosis
  2. The factors contributing to your problem
  3. A detailed, practical management plan

You'll leave with a clear explanation of what is going on, your options, and what to expect from recovery.

After your review

We send a written report to the person who referred you, and you receive a copy too. Reviews are designed to give practical, tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all program.

Next steps may include coordinating your care with the clinician you are already seeing. Some people choose to continue their program with our team at Esperance Physiotherapy.

How to prepare

  • Write down your main concerns and any questions
  • Bring any scan reports, imaging and test results
  • Bring a partner or support person if you'd like
  • Your treating therapist is welcome to attend, if you choose
  • Wear comfortable clothing that lets us see the area of concern

For GPs, physiotherapists and insurers

GPs

Consider a Specialist Physiotherapy Review when a patient's musculoskeletal problem is complex, the diagnosis is uncertain, or progress has stalled despite appropriate care. It can also help before referring for injection or a surgical opinion. You'll receive a detailed report with diagnosis, contributing factors and a clear management plan.

Physiotherapists

Doug offers second opinions to support colleagues managing complex or slow-to-progress cases. The review is collaborative: the aim is to support your ongoing care, not replace it. You are welcome to attend the appointment with your patient.

Insurers and workplace representatives

Independent specialist reviews provide a clear, evidence-informed picture of diagnosis, contributing factors and recommended management, to support recovery and return-to-work planning.

Doug prepares independent expert reports for AHPRA and legal firms. Please contact us to discuss your requirements and timeframes.

Research and professional leadership

PACE Rural

Doug is a specialist clinician in the PACE Rural research project, helping bring current, evidence-based musculoskeletal care to people living in regional and rural communities.

Integrating sleep care into musculoskeletal treatment

Poor sleep and persistent pain often go hand in hand. Doug represents the Australian Physiotherapy Association on the steering committee working to integrate cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBTi) into musculoskeletal care. This work informs how he considers sleep as part of a complete management plan.

How to refer or book

Referrers: please address referrals to Dr Doug Cary, marked “Specialist review”, and include any relevant imaging and reports.

Patients: call us to book your Specialist Physiotherapy Review.