Sheila Barrett

Sheila Barrett is a dedicated and compassionate Chartered Physiotherapist and Licensed Acupuncturist committed to helping her patients achieve better health and improved quality of life. As the owner of East Cork Physiotherapy, Balance & Acupuncture Clinic in Midleton, Cork, Sheila combines her extensive training and experience with a warm, patient-centered approach to care.

Sheila graduated from Trinity College, Dublin, in 1986 with a Degree in Physiotherapy, laying the foundation for a lifelong dedication to helping others. To enhance the care she provides, she completed membership exams with the Irish Society of Orthopaedic Medicine in 1994 and became a Licensed Acupuncturist through the British College of Acupuncture in 1996. Sheila further specialized in treating balance and dizziness issues, earning Certification in Vestibular Rehabilitation from Emory University, Atlanta, USA, in 2011.

Sheila continuously seeks ways to better serve her patients, completing advanced training in areas such as concussion, migraine, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), tinnitus, sports injuries, biomechanics and paediatrics. Her wide-ranging expertise ensures that each patient receives care tailored to their specific needs and goals.

With over three decades of experience in public and private healthcare, Sheila has worked in Cork hospitals and clinics, as well as internationally in the USA (Florida and Michigan) and Zimbabwe. This diverse background enriches her ability to connect with patients and address their individual concerns. In 1996, she opened her own clinic in Midleton to create a welcoming and supportive space where patients can feel confident in their care.

Sheila’s passion for helping people goes beyond clinical expertise—she genuinely cares about each patient’s well-being. Whether alleviating pain, improving mobility, or supporting recovery, Sheila is committed to guiding her patients every step of the way, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their health goals.

Carol O’Brien

Carol O’Brien graduated from Trinity College Dublin (TCD) in 2015 and has since worked in private practice across Ireland and the Cayman Islands, helping patients overcome a wide range of physical challenges and achieve their best health.

One of her key areas of expertise is vestibular physiotherapy, which focuses on conditions like dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders. Over the past four years, she has completed extensive training in this field and witnessed firsthand how tailored treatments can transform patients’ lives—helping them regain confidence in their mobility and significantly improving their quality of life.

Carol has also developed a strong focus on temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) and has completed training to address this complex condition. Using a combination of manual therapy, dry needling, individualized exercises, and practical education, she empowers patients to manage their symptoms and find lasting relief from jaw pain, headaches, and related issues.

Additionally, Carol is passionate about treating migraines, concussions, and whiplash, where physiotherapy plays a crucial role in reducing pain, restoring function, and supporting recovery. Whether it’s relieving chronic discomfort, improving movement, or restoring daily function, she takes pride in providing personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Beyond these specialties, Carol also offers musculoskeletal physiotherapy and orthotic prescription, helping patients address a variety of conditions, from sports injuries to postural imbalances. Her goal is always to guide patients toward lasting solutions and a pain-free, active lifestyle.

Mark Canning

Mark holds a BSc in Physiotherapy from St. George’s University of London and brings extensive experience from his work in the NHS, private hospitals, and sports physiotherapy clinics in both the UK and Ireland. His passion for sports and movement led him to complete an MSc in Sports Physiotherapy at the University of Bath.

Mark’s diverse sporting background enhances his clinical practice. He has represented Munster and the Irish rugby team at various age levels, won multiple national sprinting awards with Leevale Athletic Club, and achieved a 1st Dan black belt in TaeKwon-Do. In addition, he has worked as a personal trainer and Strength and Conditioning coach in London, and he remains an active member of the NSCA and UKSCA.

Mark is Gold level accredited on the IFSPT International Federation of Sports Physical Therapy with the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Sports and Exercise Medicine in the UK and CPSEM in Ireland. He has previously worked with sports teams and players in the British Olympic Basketball Team, Munster Rugby Academy, Cork City Football Club, UCC Rowing and been lead physio for London Scottish Rugby Club and UCC rugby club. 

With over eight years of experience teaching Reformer Pilates classes, Mark has a special interest in the biomechanics of the body, which he integrates into his patient care. His approach emphasizes rehabilitation, helping patients achieve their goals, and enhancing overall performance.

Outside of work, Mark enjoys weightlifting, playing rugby, and spending time with his three children. His dedication to patient outcomes and expertise in sports physiotherapy make him an invaluable partner in recovery and performance improvement.

Kate O’Connor

Kate O’Connor is a dedicated and experienced Chartered Physiotherapist with a patient-centered approach. She graduated from the University of Limerick with a BSc in Physiotherapy in 2016 and has since built a strong reputation in the private sector, working in Waterford, Clonmel, and now at East Cork Physiotherapy, Balance & Acupuncture Clinic.

Kate brings a wealth of expertise to the practice, including qualifications as a Pilates instructor, where she enjoys teaching and seeing the positive impact it has on her patients. She has further enhanced her skillset through specialised courses in dry needling, soft tissue release, manual therapy, vestibular physiotherapy, orthotic prescription, exercise prescription, and core stability work.

In addition to her physiotherapy qualifications, Kate holds a post-graduate degree in Veterinary Physiotherapy from Hartpury College in the UK (2019), showcasing her diverse skill set and passion for healthcare across species.

Outside of work, Kate is an avid sports enthusiast, with a particular passion for horse riding. She has represented Ireland internationally in equestrian competitions from 2008 to 2019, securing a World Pair title in 2015 alongside her brother. She is also active in camogie, running, and gym training.

Kate’s approach to physiotherapy is always centered on her patients. She takes the time to understand each individual’s needs and goals, tailoring every session to ensure the best outcomes for her patients’ well-being and recovery.

Emer Maher

Journey of Dedication: Emer’s Career in Physiotherapy
With a career spanning decades and continents, Emer has dedicated her professional life to helping individuals reclaim their health and independence. Her journey in physiotherapy reflects her deep expertise and commitment to empowering people on their road to recovery.

Academic Foundations and Early Career
Emer began her physiotherapy career at University College Dublin, graduating with a BSc Honours Physiotherapy Degree in 1993. She gained early experience in Dublin’s leading healthcare institutions, including Crumlin Children’s Hospital and the Mater Hospital.

International Experience in Australia
From 1996 to 2001, Emer worked in Australia’s public and private rehabilitation sectors, broadening her expertise in diverse conditions and healthcare systems.

Return to Ireland and Neurology Focus
In 2001, Emer returned to Ireland, focusing on neurological rehabilitation. At St. Finbarr’s Hospital and Cork University Hospital (CUH), she specialised in conditions like Stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and Vestibular Disorders.

Advancing Vestibular Rehabilitation
Emer’s interest in vestibular rehabilitation led her to establish the Vestibular Rehabilitation Service at CUH after completing advanced training in 2011. Her growth continued with an Advanced Certification from the University of Pittsburgh in 2023 and a competency exam at RCSI Dublin in 2024.

Expertise in Facial Paresis Management
Emer’s skills extend to managing acute and chronic facial paresis. In 2015, she completed advanced training and developed Ireland’s first Multidisciplinary Facial Clinic at CUH.

Balanced Approach to Recovery
Emer’s patient-centred approach ensures individuals receive tailored care and encouragement. Beyond work, she enjoys walking, yoga, gardening, and sea swimming to maintain balance and well-being.

Conclusion
Emer’s career highlights her dedication to physiotherapy and her patients. Her expertise and compassion continue to make a meaningful impact on countless lives.

Emma Fitzgerald

Emma is the heart of the administrative team at East Cork Physiotherapy, Balance & Acupuncture Clinic in Midleton, Cork. Since joining the clinic in 2001, Emma has played a vital role in ensuring patients feel valued, cared for, and at ease from the moment they walk through the door.

As Administration Manager, Emma is dedicated to creating a smooth, efficient, and welcoming environment for everyone. Her friendly demeanor and attention to detail ensure that each patient’s experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Whether assisting with appointments, answering queries, or offering a reassuring smile, Emma goes above and beyond to support patients on their journey to better health.

Emma’s commitment to exceptional care and her genuine concern for every patient make her an integral part of the clinic’s mission to provide compassionate, high-quality healthcare.