Spotlight on Great Care – Mac Herman, Physiotherapist at Active Care Capalaba

Today I want to take a moment to properly highlight someone who has been an important part of my health journey — Mac Herman at Active Care Capalaba.

When you live with ongoing physical challenges like I do — including arthritis in my T12, DISH, shoulder and neck issues, and plantar fasciitis — physiotherapy isn’t just a “sometimes” appointment. It’s a consistent, structured, and important part of maintaining independence and quality of life. And having the right physio makes all the difference.

From my very first session with Mac, I felt heard.

Not rushed.
Not dismissed.
Not just another appointment in the diary.

He takes the time to ask how I’m feeling that day, not just how I was feeling last week. That might sound small, but it’s huge. My body can change day to day. Some days are stiff. Some days are sore. Some days feel strong. Mac adapts the session to meet me where I’m at — and that flexibility shows genuine care.

Understanding the “Why” Behind the Pain

One thing I really appreciate about Mac is how he explains what’s happening in the body.

He doesn’t just say, “Do this exercise.”
He explains:

• Why the muscle is tight

• Why the joint is restricted

• How posture plays a role

• What long-term strengthening will achieve

As someone who likes understanding how things work (and yes, I do love detail 😄), this means a lot to me. When I understand the why, I’m more motivated to commit to the exercises properly.

Mac also focuses on technique — making sure I’m activating the right muscles instead of compensating with others. That attention to detail builds confidence. It feels professional, thorough, and personalised.

The Environment Matters

The team at Active Care Capalaba has always created a welcoming environment, but Mac especially brings a calm, steady presence into the room.

Physiotherapy can sometimes be uncomfortable. Stretching tight muscles, mobilising stiff joints — it’s not always easy. But Mac has a way of keeping things positive. He encourages progress, celebrates improvements (even the small ones), and reminds me that recovery and strength-building are long-term journeys.

That mindset helps on tough days.

Because let’s be honest — when you deal with chronic conditions, it’s not about “fixing” everything overnight. It’s about management, improvement, and consistency.

Progress Is Built, Not Rushed

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through physio is that progress doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes progress looks like:

• A little less stiffness getting out of bed

• Slightly better range in my shoulder

• Being able to stand longer without discomfort

• Recovering faster after a flare-up

Mac recognises those small wins. And when someone on your health team notices and values those improvements, it reinforces that the work is worth it.

He also balances hands-on treatment with strengthening work. Manual therapy is helpful, but building strength and resilience in the body is where long-term change happens — and that’s something he consistently prioritises.

Part of a Bigger Health Team

As many of you know, I have a strong support network — from my GP to my psychologist to other allied health professionals. Having people who collaborate and respect each other’s roles is important.

Mac fits into that team approach really well. There’s no ego — just a shared goal of improving function, mobility, and overall wellbeing.

That teamwork mindset means a lot to me. It’s not just about appointments. It’s about coordinated care.

Why This Matters to Me

I talk a lot about gratitude in Coffee with Luke. And this is one of those moments.

When you’re navigating physical challenges, you want professionals who:

✔ Listen
✔ Adapt
✔ Educate
✔ Encourage
✔ Care

Mac brings all of that.

He understands that physiotherapy isn’t just physical — it impacts confidence, independence, and mental wellbeing too. When your body feels stronger, your mindset often follows.

And that ripple effect is powerful.

Final Thoughts ☕

If you’re local and looking for a physiotherapist who genuinely takes the time to understand you — not just your injury — Mac Herman at Active Care Capalaba is someone I highly recommend.

For me, it’s not just about exercises or treatment tables. It’s about trust, communication, and steady progress.

Health is a journey.
Strength is built over time.
And having the right people in your corner makes all the difference.

Grateful for good care, good people, and small wins every day.

— Luke ☕