Physiotherapy Team
Eoin Ó Conaire
Founder, Physiotherapy Service Lead
Chartered Physiotherapist
PhD candidate, MSc, BSc (Hons), BA, MISCP
Eoin Ó Conaire is a Chartered Physiotherapist and PhD candidate, specialising in the assessment and rehabilitation of shoulder conditions, complex musculoskeletal presentations, and persistent pain. With over 20 years of clinical experience, Eoin is passionate about delivering evidence-based care that empowers individuals to move with confidence, reduce pain, and achieve meaningful recovery. His approach integrates hands-on expertise with a deep commitment to understanding the whole person, physically, psychologically, and emotionally.
Eoin draws on advanced clinical training, international research, and a background in elite sports and NHS leadership to support clients in managing pain, overcoming injury, and returning to the activities they value most. His work is grounded in the belief that effective rehabilitation starts with a thorough assessment, clear communication, and a collaborative treatment plan tailored to each individual’s goals. In addition to clinical practice, Eoin is active in teaching, research, and professional leadership. He is co-founder of Evidence-Based Therapy Centre and is widely recognised for his contributions to physiotherapy innovation and shoulder rehabilitation.
In addition to clinical practice, Eoin is active in teaching, research, and professional leadership. He is co-founder of Evidence-Based Therapy Centre and is widely recognised for his contributions to physiotherapy innovation and shoulder rehabilitation.
Clinical Focus & Experience
Eoin’s physiotherapy practice focuses on supporting individuals with complex or persistent musculoskeletal conditions. His areas of specialist interest include:
Shoulder Rehabilitation
Eoin has extensive expertise in shoulder assessment and treatment, including complex conditions such as frozen shoulder, rotator cuff tears, and instability. He integrates exercise rehabilitation, education and manual therapy to provide targeted, research-informed care.
Complex Musculoskeletal Conditions
With a background in advanced musculoskeletal physiotherapy, Eoin supports patients dealing with persistent or multifactorial pain presentations. He places a strong emphasis on understanding the biopsychosocial aspects of each case and tailoring interventions accordingly.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and nerve palsies of the shoulder girdle
Eoin has developed a clinical interest in thoracic outlet syndrome and other more unusual nerve palsies and neuropathic presentations around the shoulder such as suprascapular nerve palsy, long thoracic nerve palsy, spinal accessory nerve palsy, quadrilateral space syndrome and Parsonage Turner Syndrome.
Sports Injury & Rehabilitation
Eoin’s early work in elite sports—supporting teams such as Crystal Palace FC and Oxford University Rugby—continues to inform his approach to injury prevention and performance-based rehab. He also works extensively with swimmers and has developed the Swim-fit programme.
Eoin’s approach combines technical skill, diagnostic precision, and a compassionate, patient-centred philosophy. He believes in making rehabilitation both effective and engaging.
Qualifications & Research
Eoin holds a BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy (1st class honours), and an MSc in Advancing Practice Physiotherapy (Specialist Manipulative Physiotherapy) from the University of Birmingham, graduating with distinction. His research was awarded the MACP Research Prize and has been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented internationally.
In 2021, Eoin began his PhD at the University of Antwerp under the supervision of Prof. Filip Struyf. His doctoral research focuses on rehabilitation strategies for patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. He has published two papers so far from this project.
Eoin is a member of the Irish Shoulder & Elbow Rehabilitation Society (ISERS) and the European Society of Shoulder & Elbow Rehabilitation (EUSSER).
Teaching & Professional Development
Eoin is deeply committed to sharing knowledge and advancing physiotherapy practice. He is the creator of the Shoulder Masterclass, an intensive two-day course delivered throughout Ireland and Europe, focusing on contemporary, evidence-based approaches to shoulder rehabilitation.
He also co-developed The Psychologically-Informed Physiotherapist, a course designed to enhance the therapeutic relationship by integrating psychological principles into physiotherapy practice.
Eoin regularly presents at national and international conferences, teaches webinars on topics related to shoulder rehabilitation and provides mentorship to physiotherapists interested in shoulder rehabilitation, persistent pain, and evidence-based practice.
Clinical Leadership & Innovation
Eoin served as Clinical Lead in musculoskeletal physiotherapy at Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust for six years. During this time, he helped transform the service into a nationally recognised, award-winning department with a focus on specialist care pathways and innovation.
He has received multiple awards for healthcare innovation, including:
- Finalist, NHS Innovator of the Year (Medical Devices)
- Runner-up, The Big Idea Academic Innovation Awards
- Allied Health Professional of the Year, CLCH (2012)
- Health Foundation Shine Award recipient (with Dr Jeremy Lewis)
Eoin’s innovations include medical devices for vibration sense testing and the development of digital patient education tools for chronic pain.
Therapeutic Philosophy
Eoin’s approach to physiotherapy is rooted in detailed assessment, shared decision-making, and personalised care. He believes that education and understanding are key to lasting recovery and takes time to ensure that clients feel informed, supported, and motivated throughout their rehabilitation journey.
Whether working with elite athletes or individuals dealing with long-term pain, Eoin aims to make therapy not only effective but enjoyable—creating space for learning, movement, and progress.
Appointments
Eoin is available for appointments at the Evidence-Based Therapy Centre on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. To book an appointment please contact us at 091-727777 or get in touch via our contact page.
Sylvia Farrell
Chartered Physiotherapist
BSc(Hons) MISCP, CPPHC, WHTA
Sylvia Farrell is a Chartered Physiotherapist with over 25 years’ experience and has specialised in Women’s and Men’s Pelvic Health for the last 18 years.
Her approach combines clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the sensitivity and complexity of pelvic health, offering a safe and supportive space where clients feel respected and empowered.
She is passionate about helping people feel confident, strong and informed in managing pelvic health issues whether related to pregnancy, postpartum recovery, menopause, the bladder, bowel, pelvic pain, surgery or sexual health conditions.
Sylvia’s work is grounded in evidence-based care, enhanced by extensive postgraduate training, and shaped by her experience across a variety of healthcare settings in Ireland, New Zealand and the UK.
She is committed to guiding individuals through their health journeys with compassion and professionalism, providing education, personalised treatment plans and hands-on support. Sylvia works collaboratively with clients to achieve their specific goals and improve quality of life at every stage of life.
Clinical Work
With extensive postgraduate training Sylvia supports individuals across a broad and wide range of pelvic health conditions and concerns. She is known for her warm and approachable manner, which complements her thorough, patient-centred approach to assessment, treatment and management.
Women’s Pelvic Health
Sylvia has extensive experience treating ladies through all life stages. She treats pregnancy-related musculoskeletal issues, including but not limited to pelvic girdle pain, low back pain, rib pain, carpal tunnel syndrome and hip discomfort. She provides comprehensive postnatal physio assessments (“Mummy Checks”) and treats conditions such as diastasis recti, obstetric injuries, pelvic organ prolapse, bladder leakage or overactivity and bowel issues. She also supports women with menopausal symptoms, pelvic pain, recovery from gynaecological surgeries or those having difficulty with penetration or painful sex.
Men’s Pelvic Health
Sylvia provides specialist care for men experiencing bladder and bowel issues, overactive bladder, pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction, Peyronie’s disease, and pre/post-prostatectomy rehabilitation. Her approach combines clinical knowledge with a sensitive, respectful attitude to ensure clients feel comfortable and understood.
Qualifications & Professional Background
Sylvia graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy from the University of Ulster in 1999. Her career has included work in both public and private sectors in Ireland, New Zealand and the UK.
Early in her career, Sylvia gained experience across multiple specialties before moving abroad. While working in New Zealand and the UK, she treated a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions and supported various sports teams. Upon returning to Ireland, her interest in women’s health was sparked while working in private practice.
In 2007, she took a specialist role at the Rotunda Hospital in Dublin, one of Europe’s leading maternity hospitals. Here, she gained extensive experience in managing antenatal and postnatal patients, gynaecological and urological conditions, and paediatric care. She also led antenatal, postnatal, and aqua-natal classes, and served as a committee member for the Women’s Health Association within the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists.
Following a short career break, Sylvia worked in pelvic health and general musculoskeletal care in Manchester, UK before returning to Galway in 2017 to start working with EBTC.
Therapeutic Philosophy
Sylvia’s therapeutic approach is grounded in professionalism, empathy, and a commitment to high-quality care. She understands the deeply personal nature of pelvic health and ensures that every client is treated with dignity and respect.
Her treatment plans are guided by the latest research and shaped around each client’s unique goals. She places strong emphasis on education and self-management—empowering clients with the tools, knowledge and confidence they need to improve their health and quality of life.
Whether working with new mothers, post-operative patients or individuals navigating complex pelvic issues, Sylvia is focused on supporting long-term well-being.
Memberships & Professional Affiliations
Sylvia is:
- A member of the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP)
- CORU Registered (PT026294)
- A member of Chartered Physiotherapists in Pelvic Health & Continence (CPPHC)
- A member of Women’s Health Training Associates (WHTA)
Outside of Work
Sylvia enjoys walking her dog, swimming and the occasional game of golf. She values time with her family and believes in maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle that reflects the advice she shares with clients.
Appointments
Sylvia is available for appointments at the Evidence-Based Therapy Centre on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. To book an appointment please contact us at 091-727777 or get in touch via our contact page.
Nigel Plummer
Chartered Physiotherapist
BSc (Hons) MISCP
Nigel Plummer is a Chartered Physiotherapist with a special interest in spinal rehabilitation, exercise therapy, and clinical Pilates. With a passion for movement and a background in both hospital and private settings, Nigel combines hands-on clinical expertise with a strong focus on empowering individuals through education and evidence-based rehabilitation exercise. He is known for his dynamic teaching style, comprehensive assessments, and commitment to helping clients regain strength, confidence, and control in their recovery.
Nigel takes a whole-person approach, working collaboratively with clients to identify the root causes of pain and guide them on a path toward lasting improvement. Whether treating back pain, nerve-related conditions, or supporting clients with chronic illness, his approach is always grounded in empathy, clarity, and active rehabilitation. He currently leads several group rehabilitation programmes at the Evidence-Based Therapy Centre in Galway and continues to offer one-to-one physiotherapy sessions. With a warm and approachable manner, Nigel is dedicated to helping individuals move better, feel better, and build resilience through personalised care and performance-focused rehabilitation.
He currently leads several group rehabilitation programmes at the Evidence-Based Therapy Centre in Galway and continues to offer one-to-one physiotherapy sessions. With a warm and approachable manner, Nigel is dedicated to helping individuals move better, feel better, and build resilience through personalised care and performance-focused rehabilitation.
Clinical Focus & Experience
Nigel supports clients with a range of musculoskeletal conditions, with specialist interest in:
Spinal Conditions & Nerve Pain
Nigel has extensive experience treating spinal complaints such as neck pain, lower back pain, sciatica, and other nerve-related issues. He is passionate about restoring movement and function for those whose daily life is disrupted by spinal discomfort.
Older Adult Rehabilitation
Having worked across multiple elder care settings—including Galway Hospice, nursing homes, and rehabilitation wards—Nigel provides tailored support for older adults, focusing on falls prevention, mobility, strength, and independence.
Chronic Pain & Complex Needs
Through his work in both public and private healthcare, Nigel has supported individuals living with long-term or complex health conditions, providing thoughtful and progressive rehabilitation solutions.
Qualifications & Professional Background
Nigel graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy from the European School of Physiotherapy in Amsterdam in 2018. He completed an accelerated honours programme and returned to Galway to begin his clinical career.
He has worked in diverse healthcare environments, including:
- Galway University Hospitals (GUH) – in orthopaedics, general medicine, care of the elderly, and rehabilitation in Merlin Park Hospital.
- Private Practice – treating a wide range of musculoskeletal and chronic pain conditions.
- Galway Hospice & Nursing Homes – specialising in palliative care and rehabilitation for those with life-limiting conditions.
Nigel began working with the Evidence-Based Therapy Centre in 2022 where he delivers both individual physiotherapy appointments and a range of specialist exercise classes.
Therapeutic Philosophy
Nigel’s approach centres on clear communication, shared goal setting, and active rehabilitation. He is committed to identifying all contributing factors to pain and dysfunction, whether physical, psychological, or environmental and designing a tailored programme to support recovery.
He believes in building strength, resilience, and confidence through movement and guided education. Whether working with athletes, office workers, or individuals returning to activity post-injury, Nigel helps people overcome pain and rediscover enjoyment in their everyday lives.
Specialist Group Programmes
Nigel currently leads a variety of physiotherapy-led exercise classes, each grounded in evidence-based rehabilitation and functional movement:
- Physio-Led Pilates: Strengthens core and postural muscles, improves breathing mechanics, and enhances movement control. Beginner and mixed-ability class options.
- Balance & Bone-Builders Programme: Designed for individuals with osteoporosis or osteopenia, focusing on bone density, balance, and falls prevention.
- Swim-Fit Programme: Targets strength and conditioning for swimmers, helping reduce injury risk and improve performance.
- S.T.R.I.D.E: For runners who are looking for an evidence-based exercise programme to enhance their running economy and reduce the risk of injury.
- Pre and post-natal programmes: Taking care to guide women during their pregnancy and post-natal rehabilitation. These group classes are aimed to inform, provide relief and keep mums fit and happy through their journey.
- 1 to 1 exercise classes: Tailor made exercise classes made for specific individual’s needs.
Nigel brings creativity and energy to his teaching, drawing on his background in Matwork & Reformer Pilates, and Strength & Conditioning (NCSC certification).
Outside of Work
Nigel is a passionate waterman and endurance sea swimmer and runner. He has completed the Francis Thornton Memorial Galway Bay Swim twice (solo) and can often be found surfing or hydrofoiling along the West Coast of Ireland. His personal commitment to movement and outdoor activity deeply informs his professional philosophy.
Memberships & Professional Associations
- CORU Registered Physiotherapist
- Member, Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP)
Appointments
Nigel is available for appointments at the Evidence-Based Therapy Centre on Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays. To book an appointment please click the Book Now link below, contact us at 091-727777 or get in touch via our contact page.