Welcome to Physio Performance, where clinical expertise and a deep passion for movement come together to deliver exceptional care. I'm Helen Littleworth, the Clinical Director here, and my journey into physiotherapy is rooted in my love for sports and movement. My first spark for healthcare ignited on a unique path—from being a farm kid in rural Wairarapa, where my father gave me my first “anatomy lessons” using sheep anatomy, to representing New Zealand in hockey. It was during my sporting career that a persistent ankle injury inspired me to explore physiotherapy. I wanted to know more, ask the questions no one had answers to, and help others achieve peak physical performance.

A Passion for Sport and Movement

Sport has always been central to my life. From hockey to rugby, I’ve experienced the challenges and demands athletes face. This passion naturally drew me towards sports physiotherapy and the biomechanics behind it. Every client and every movement puzzle we solve here at Physio Performance drives my commitment to the field. I believe in the power of personalised care, where each client is unique, listening and developing trust is paramount. No two clients are the same, and everyone deserves our utmost attention and respect.

Building Physio Performance from the Ground Up

Starting this clinic was a labour of love, rooted in my desire to balance teaching and hands-on clinical work. I began with just one client a week in a leased room and slowly grew Physio Performance into a central part of the Dunedin community. Now, it’s known not only for its quality care but also for its commitment to empowering each client.

A Unique Approach to Client Care

Our philosophy is simple but powerful: listen. I believe that each client knows their body best, and I approach every session with the intent to understand, build trust, and foster healing. Quality care, respect, and client trust are the core values that guide our practice. To ensure we’re meeting these standards, we constantly gather feedback and invest in building meaningful rapport with everyone who walks through our doors.

A Life Outside the Clinic

Beyond my work, I enjoy the outdoors—whether I’m biking along coastal paths, walking through the gardens, up in the hills, or caring for my two daughters, I cherish the moments spent in nature and with family. At home, I share my space with my family and two beloved cats, Patch and Bean, and, when I can, I’m an avid supporter of women’s sports teams, helping ensure they receive the recognition and support they deserve.

Looking Forward at Physio Performance

My vision for Physio Performance is to continue setting the standard for quality physiotherapy in Dunedin. We’re working towards expanding our facilities to support functional movement training, allowing clients to rehab fully from start to finish. I’m also excited to bring in more allied health providers, such as hand therapists and pelvic heath, to enhance our multidisciplinary approach.

To my clients, I want you to know that life is about movement—moving well, not just with strength but with purpose and efficiency. I’m here to help you achieve that. Thank you for choosing Physio Performance, where your care, goals, and wellbeing are our top priority.