Adrian Cush, an Advanced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist at QEII, is dedicated to helping patients improve their health through education. This Men’s Health Week (9-15 June), he shares how his own health journey has fueled his passion for healthy living and how he strives to lead by example, both at home and at work.
Adrian’s interest in physiotherapy began during his school years when playing rugby led to several injuries. His positive experiences with physiotherapists inspired him to pursue the profession himself. “I was really impressed by my interactions with physiotherapists at the time, and that made me want to follow the same path,” Adrian said.
After finishing high school, Adrian dove straight into physiotherapy. He earned his Master’s degrees in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy in 2015 and Sports Physiotherapy in 2017, all while establishing himself as an accomplished athlete.
“I’m deeply involved in Touch Rugby League in Australia. I played for South Brisbane, captained New South Wales men’s 30s in the State of Origin, and also led Queensland City in the Queensland City vs Country competition. Last year, I played for the Australian men’s 30s team, and we’re preparing for the World Cup in July. On Saturdays, I also work as a sports trainer for my wife’s women’s rugby union team at UQ,” Adrian shared.
In the off-season, Adrian maintains his fitness with a strict workout routine, cycling to work, and spending time in local parks or hiking trails with his eight-month-old daughter.
“It’s very important for me to pass on the value of physical activity to my daughter. She’s hitting all her milestones, and we try to include her in as many activities as possible. She even makes a great weights vest when I carry her in a baby carrier, so hopefully, she’s absorbing the joy of exercise along the way,” he added.
Adrian believes the key to forming lasting, healthy habits lies in balance and consistency. “We know that eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising are the three pillars of good health. The secret is building good habits into your daily life,” he explained.
He emphasized that consistent exercise, meal prepping to save time, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule are crucial for long-term health. “Getting enough sleep is essential because that’s when your muscles, tendons, and cartilage recover.”
With 50 Australian men dying every day from preventable causes, this year’s Men’s Health Week theme, “Know Your Man Facts,” is especially significant.
“Men tend to be more reluctant to address chronic health issues, often waiting longer before seeking help. We see this frequently here at QEII,” Adrian noted. “That’s why education is such an important part of physiotherapy. One of the best things about public health physiotherapy is ensuring that patients leave with the knowledge they need to manage their health independently.”
Adrian’s physiotherapy knowledge has greatly improved his own health by allowing him to address minor injuries before they develop into major problems. He stresses that sometimes simple advice is more effective than complicated treatments. “It’s about offering clear, actionable guidance that patients can apply on their own, rather than overwhelming them with complex techniques they can’t do at home.”
Adrian’s approach to health education is a key reason why QEII patients continue to benefit from his expertise. A big thank you to Adrian and all the men’s health advocates at QEII who empower patients every day.
