Raelene Clark is an esteemed Orofacial Pain Therapist with almost three decades of combined clinical and academic experience. Holding a B.Sc in Molecular Genetics & Human Biology from Curtin University, and a Master of Science in Medicine with a focus on Orofacial Pain from the University of Sydney, Raelene is one of just three therapists in Australia with this specialization. Her expertise in treating TMJ Dysfunction, proficiency in the DC/TMD Examination protocol for assessing TMD patients, along with her patient-centered approach has been instrumental in helping countless individuals alleviate their pain.
Raelene's professional journey started with an apprenticeship under Dr. John Whiteside at MyoMed, during a period when myofascial pain was gaining recognition in the musculoskeletal field. In her early career, she was fortunate to be trained by leading figures in myotherapy, including the American myotherapist Nancy Shaw and American physical therapist Tim Sawyer. Following three years of intensive clinical training, Raelene began her practice as a Myotherapist while simultaneously furthering her studies at Curtin University.
Parallel to her private practice, Raelene has had a successful academic career. After being invited as a lecturer/tutor at Curtin University and Edith Cowan University (ECU), she has taught various courses such as Anatomy and Physiology, and laboratory components of Genetics, Forensic Genetics, and Biomedical Techniques. She currently serves as a clinical lecturer in the School of BioSciences at Endeavour College of Natural Medicine.
Raelene's wealth of experience extends to her service at the WA Institute of Sport (WAIS), Tennis West, WASO, Therapy Focus, and with an array of health professionals ranging from medical specialists to allied practitioners. She has also developed myofascial pain programs for doctors at the Royal Australia College of General Practitioners (RACGP).
A registered member of Massage and Myotherapy Australia (MAA), where she also holds the position of elected State Director, Raelene's patients can claim rebates on their treatment from their private health fund. She also holds memberships with the Australian Pain Society and the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, reflecting her commitment to her field.
Raelene Clark believes in taking a comprehensive and tailored approach to patient care, starting from the initial diagnosis to the development of a personalized treatment plan. Each patient's journey begins with a meticulous assessment utilizing the DC/TMD Examination protocol, which optimizes the identification and understanding of the underlying causes of head, neck, and jaw pain. With her unique background in Molecular Genetics & Human Biology, Orofacial Pain, and Myotherapy, Raelene is able to diagnose not only from a physiological perspective, but also takes into consideration the individual's genetic predispositions and potential biochemical imbalances, thereby creating a more holistic and accurate view of the patient's condition.
Once the root cause is identified, Raelene devises a care plan that is meaningful and achievable, tailored to suit each patient's unique needs and lifestyle. Her treatment strategies could involve a combination of therapies, lifestyle adjustments, and education about pain management. This can include anything from dry needling and stretch and spray techniques, to changes in sleep hygiene and addressing biochemical imbalances. By also addressing factors such as stress and malocclusion that may contribute to the pain, Raelene ensures that her patients receive a comprehensive approach to their treatment. She guides her patients through every step of the process, helping them understand their pain, the treatment strategies, and empowering them to take an active role in their own healing journey.
