Meet Dr Sarah Mattin
The Fanny Physio
Women’s health physiotherapy doesn’t have to be awkward, clinical or complicated.
I’m Dr Sarah Mattin, a Women’s Health Physiotherapist, researcher, mum, coffee enthusiast and the founder of The Fanny Physio.
Based in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast, I help women better understand their bodies, manage pelvic health concerns and get back to doing the things they love.
And yes, we really can talk about all things fanny.
Because when it comes to women’s health, I believe conversations should be open, honest and completely judgement-free.
From treating athletes to treating women
My physiotherapy journey actually started a long way from women’s health.
I originally trained in Canada in the early 2000s, beginning my career as an Athletic Therapist working with amateur and professional athletes.
My training included a Bachelor of Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology, an Athletic Therapy degree and extensive experience in on-field medical coverage, injury assessment, treatment, rehabilitation and return-to-sport programs.
In 2009, I made the move to Australia and swapped Canadian winters for the Gold Coast sunshine.
I went on to complete my Doctor of Physiotherapy at Bond University in 2011, followed by a PhD in Physiotherapy with a focus on Gerontology.
Alongside private practice, I have also worked within the hospital system, including at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane, where I have been involved for more than a decade.
Then I became a mum
My path into women's health really began after the birth of my first son more than 10 years ago.
Becoming a mum changed the way I looked at women's bodies, recovery and the physical challenges that can come with pregnancy, birth and motherhood.
It sparked a passion for women's health that has continued to grow ever since.
Today, women's health is at the heart of my clinical work.
I love helping women understand what is happening in their bodies, find practical solutions and feel confident getting back to life, movement, exercise and the things that make them feel like themselves again.
The Mattin Method
Over the years, I’ve trained in a wide range of acupuncture and physiotherapy techniques in Canada, America and Australia.
I’ve brought together that experience with my knowledge of physiotherapy, neuromodulation and women's health to develop The Mattin Method.
The Mattin Method is a neuromodulation technique using electro-acupuncture, and it is currently being used in clinical trials in my Gold Coast clinics.
It forms part of my broader approach to treatment, where I look beyond simply treating a symptom and consider the person as a whole.
Because no two women are the same, and there is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution.
More than a physio
While women’s health is now a major focus of my work, my background in sports physiotherapy and geriatrics means I’ve had the privilege of working with people across a huge range of ages, abilities and conditions.
I genuinely love a challenge.
One of my favourite things is working with someone who has reached the point where they’ve given up, helping them understand what is possible and watching them rediscover their confidence, movement and zest for life.
That might mean helping a new mum return to exercise.
Helping an athlete get back on the field.
Helping a woman feel comfortable in her body again.
Or simply helping someone move through life with less pain and more confidence.
That’s what makes physiotherapy so rewarding for me.
Life outside the clinic
When I’m not talking about pelvic floors, rehabilitation or neuromodulation, you’ll probably find me drinking coffee, drinking wine, spending time with my husband and kids, or wrangling our dogs.
I love the Gold Coast lifestyle and making the most of everything it has to offer.
Weekends usually involve the beach, swimming, paddle boarding and attempting to keep up with my two children.
And yes, I have four kids if you count the dogs!
A few other things you probably didn’t expect to learn about me:
Coffee or tea?
Coffee. Obviously.
Dogs or cats?
Dogs. Every time.
If I were a vegetable?
A leek. They’re underestimated and the quiet hero of many dishes.
Something most people don’t know about me?
I completed Grade 8 Conservatory in piano while I was in Grade 8 at school.
Why The Fanny Physio?
Because women deserve better conversations about their bodies.
You shouldn’t feel embarrassed asking questions about your pelvic floor.
You shouldn’t have to put up with symptoms because someone told you they were “normal”.
And you shouldn’t have to stop doing the things you love because your body isn’t cooperating.
My approach combines years of clinical experience, research, women's health expertise and a whole-person approach to treatment.
But most importantly, I want you to feel heard.
Whether you’re recovering from having a baby, dealing with pelvic health concerns, returning to sport, navigating changes as you age or simply wanting to understand your body better, I’m here to help you move forward.
Ready to feel more like you again?
You don’t have to put up with symptoms, discomfort or uncertainty.
Let’s talk about what’s happening, work out what your body needs and create a plan to help you get back to doing the things you love.
Come and meet Dr Sarah at The Fanny Physio in Burleigh Heads.