Vanessa Zweck

Hand Therapist

The Hand Therapist Who’s Truly Handy to Have Around

You know how some things in life just click? That’s pretty much how I ended up at MGS Physio. A wonderful colleague of mine — who has since headed off to enjoy the sunny mid North Coast life (jealous, much?) — connected us before she left, and the rest, as they say, is history.

So, let me properly introduce myself.

35 Years and Still Obsessed

I’m Vanessa Zweck, and I’m an Occupational Therapist and Accredited Hand Therapist with over 35 years of experience in hand therapy. I know — that’s a long time. But honestly, I’m still as passionate about this work as I was when I first started. Maybe even more so, because now I actually know what I’m doing. (Kidding. Mostly.)

I graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy back in 1988 and went on to complete my Masters of Science in Hand and Upper Limb Rehabilitation in 2000. I hold the internationally recognised qualification of Certified Hand Therapist, I’m a full member of the Australian Hand Therapy Association, and I’m also an affiliate member of the NSW Hand Surgeons Association. I’ve had the privilege of working across Australia, Canada, and the USA, which has given me a pretty broad perspective on how hand therapy is practised around the world.

Along the way, I’ve lectured at universities and presented research papers both in Australia and internationally. But my favourite part of this whole career? Honestly, it’s still the one-on-one work with people — figuring out what’s going on, making a plan, and watching someone get back to doing the things they love.

What Actually Happens When You See Me

Let’s break it down, because “hand therapy” can sound a bit vague. Here’s the deal — I assess and treat all kinds of upper limb injuries and conditions. We’re talking:

• Fractures — whether it’s a wrist, finger, or something further up the arm
• Ligament injuries — those sneaky ones that don’t always show up on an X-ray
• Overuse injuries — because your body will eventually tell you it’s had enough
• Tendinitis and tennis elbow — ironically, you don’t even have to play tennis to get tennis elbow
• Pre and post-surgical rehabilitation — getting you ready for surgery and helping you recover afterwards
• Ongoing hand and arm pain and Osteoarthritis — the kind that just won’t quit

My toolkit includes custom-made splinting, casting, oedema and scar management, pain management techniques, and tailored stretching and strengthening programmes. The goal is always the same — to get you back to your home life, your work, and your leisure activities as smoothly and quickly as possible.

It’s Not Just About the Hands (Well, Mostly It Is)

One thing I’m really proud of is the network I’ve built over the years working in Sydney. I’ve established strong relationships with some of the best hand surgeons and doctors in the area, which means if you need a referral or a collaborative approach to your care, I’ve got connections who genuinely know their stuff.

I also love contributing to the profession through continuing education — whether that’s mentoring other hand therapists, teaching students, or keeping my own professional development ticking along. The hand therapy world is always evolving, and I reckon if you’re not learning, you’re falling behind.

The Fun Stuff

Outside of the clinic, my husband and I have a virtual Brady Bunch — six kids between us, so life is never boring. I’m a massive tennis fan (playing and watching), I love getting out to see live bands, and when I need to burn off some energy you’ll find me out on the mountain bike trails.

The Quiz

Because what’s a profile without getting to know the real person behind the hand splints?

What is your favourite book? The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin

Who would you invite to a dinner party? Rafael Nadal!! (I mean, was there ever going to be another answer?)

What is your favourite movie? Sabrina with Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart

Which country would you most like to visit? Spain

Why MGS Physio

At MGS, we value offering specialised services that make a real difference. Hand therapy is one of those areas where having someone with specific expertise can genuinely change your outcome — and I don’t say that lightly. Whether you’ve just broken your wrist, you’re recovering from surgery, or you’ve been battling persistent pain that nobody seems to be able to sort out, I’m here to help.

I’m truly handy to have around. (Sorry, I had to.)

If you’ve got a hand or upper limb issue that needs attention, get in touch with the team at MGS Physio and let’s get you sorted.