My Journey as a Physiotherapist at the MS Society – Margot Strelan

My name is Margot, and I serve as the Team Leader for all our physiotherapists at the MS Society, while also practicing as a physiotherapist myself.

As part of the physio team, I work closely with clients who have multiple sclerosis (MS), helping them understand and manage their symptoms as best as possible. These symptoms can include issues with balance, walking, muscle weakness, spasticity, dizziness, pain, fatigue, and heat sensitivity. We focus on how these symptoms impact daily life and provide tools and strategies to manage them effectively. This might involve exercise rehabilitation, home exercise programs, pool-based and virtual exercise classes, or gym-based group sessions.

We also support future health professionals by mentoring physiotherapy students on placement, ensuring they gain valuable experience and knowledge about MS. Additionally, we travel to different parts of South Australia to support rural clients who may not have easy access to physiotherapy services.

I was drawn to this field after really enjoying my neurological rehabilitation placement as a student. When I saw a job opening at the MS Society, I knew it was something I wanted to do. What’s kept me here, though, is the clients. It might sound cliché, but I find them incredibly inspiring. Despite their diagnosis, they continue to push forward, and I feel privileged to support them in any way I can.

When I haven’t been working with the MS Society, I’ve worked in paediatrics, which was fun, but it wasn’t something I could see myself doing long-term. I also worked in private practice, but I find working for a not-for-profit organisation much more fulfilling.

The most rewarding part of my role is empowering people to take control of their health. Whether it’s providing reliable, evidence-based information about exercise guidelines or helping someone understand the physiological reasons behind their symptoms, it’s all about giving them the tools to manage their condition. Seeing someone achieve a personal goal—whether it’s something small or life-changing—is always incredibly rewarding.

There have been so many highlights over the years. Seeing long-term clients celebrate milestones like becoming grandparents, watching their children grow up, and even having them see my own children grow up has been really special. Events like the Mighty Swim, which just celebrated its 20th year, and the MS Family Fun Day are also great moments. It’s wonderful to see clients outside of the clinical setting, enjoying time with their families and loved ones.

One of the best parts of working here is being surrounded by dedicated, like-minded clinicians. Everyone is here for the right reasons—we’re all committed to supporting people with MS and working together to provide the best care possible.

As a not-for-profit, we don’t receive government funding for the services we provide, so fundraising is crucial. There are so many ways to support us—buying lottery tickets, sponsoring or participating in the Mighty Swim, joining the MS Readathon, or taking on the MS 50K in May.

At the heart of my work is a commitment to client-centred care. I believe in taking the time to understand each person as an individual, rather than making assumptions about their condition or abilities. Everyone’s experience with MS is different, and our role is to provide clear, useful information so they can make informed choices about their health.

For those newly diagnosed with MS, my biggest piece of advice is to reach out. We have a wonderful team of nurses and client engagement staff who are here to support you every step of the way. It can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. You don’t even have to visit in person—just giving us a call can be a great first step. We’re here to help, whenever you’re ready.

-Margot Strelan, MS Society SA & NT Physiotherapist Team Leader