My Expertise
Insert text here
Keywords
Fields of Research (FoR)
Exercise physiology, Physiotherapy, Sports science and exercise, Dance and dance studiesBiography
view more
I am an Associate Lecturer at UNSW, where I contribute to the education of Exercise Physiology and Exercise Science students, with a particular interest in developing clinically capable, reflective, and innovative allied health practitioners.
I completed my PhD at the University of Sydney, where my research explored dance as chronic pain management through a program of work including a systematic review, qualitative stakeholder studies, and a pilot feasibility trial. My broader research interests includes chronic pain, exercise and movement for health, dance and creation, qualitative research, allied health education, and the application of Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies in healthcare. I contribute as a board member of the international Somatic Practice and Chronic Pain Network, attend and present at conferences related to dance and pain management, and act as a peer reviewer for multiple journals across arts therapy, dance, sports science, and medical research.
I have interdisciplinary qualifications and experience in Exercise Physiology and Physiotherapy and have worked across clinical practice, exercise, rehabilitation, and health education. Since 2021, I have also owned and operated an allied health clinic and dance studio translating research into community-based programs for chronic pain and musculoskeletal conditions. I continue to work clinically in musculoskeletal and occupational physiotherapy practice and as a domain expert for AI model training across physiotherapy, pain management nutrition, and sports medicine.
I have been a university tutor since 2019, teaching Exercise Physiology/Exercise Science students in areas such as biochemistry, professional practice, and sports injury surveillance. I am currently undertaking a Masters of Clinical Education through Flinders University, looking to integrate clinical education with clinical practice and research.
I am particularly interested in bringing together research, clinical practice, education, and creative approaches to health. My goal is to help students and health professionals understand and appreciate their vocation while encouraging curiosity, innovation, critical thinking, and a willingness to explore new approaches to healthcare.
My Qualifications
Doctor of Philosophy (The University of Sydney, 2025) Thesis Title- “Social DanCER: Social Dance and Community Effects Research: the role of chronic pain in dance"
Master’s of Physiotherapy (The University of Sydney, 2018)
Bachelor of Exercise Physiology (University of New South Wales, 2015)
Certificate IV in Fitness (Onfit Training College)
Certificate III in Fitness (Onfit Training College)
My Awards
APA Titled Research Physiotherapist (Australian College of Physiotherapists, 2026)
Student Research Award (International Association for Dance Medicine & Science, 2020)
My Research Activities
Publications
Hickman, B., Pourkazemi, F., Pebdani, R.N., Hiller, C.E. and Fong Yan, A., 2022. Dance for chronic pain conditions: a systematic review. Pain Medicine, 23(12), pp.2022-2041.
Conference presentations
International Association for the Study of Pain (Poster, 2026): A Participant-Informed Dance for Chronic Pain Feasibility Pilot: Incorporating Stakeholder Perspectives in Program Implementation
Australian Pain Society (Poster, 2026): Exploring Dance as Chronic Pain Management: A Qualitative Study
International Association for Dance Medicine & Science (Presentation, 2024): Considerations for a Dance for Chronic Pain Program: A Participant-Informed Approach
International Association for Dance Medicine & Science (Presentation, 2020): Dance for Chronic Pain Conditions: A Systematic Review
Exercise & Sports Science Australia (Poster, 2016): Issues relating to exercise and knee joint health in young adults
Board member of the Dance and Somatic Practice and Chronic Pain Network
My Engagement
Media
Memberships
Member Australian College of Physiotherapists
Member Australian Physiotherapy Association
Member Exercise & Sports Science Australia
Member Australian Pain Society
Member International Association for the Study of Pain
Member International Association for Dance Medicine & Science