If you suffer from a chronic health condition, you have access to up to 5 subsidised Medicare sessions for Physiotherapy or Exercise Physiology with Health First. Physical therapy is a valuable healthcare service for individuals with chronic conditions. It focuses on managing and improving physical function, reducing pain, and enhancing overall quality of life. Here are some key aspects of physical therapy for chronic conditions:

• Our Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist will conduct a thorough assessment to understand your specific condition, medical history, and functional limitations. They may perform tests, evaluate your range of motion, strength, balance, and posture to identify areas that need attention.

• Based on the assessment, the practitioner will develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. The plan may include exercises, stretches, manual therapy techniques, and other modalities to address pain, mobility, strength, flexibility, and endurance.

• Our Allied Health services aim to alleviate pain associated with chronic conditions. The practitioner may use various techniques such as manual therapy, heat or cold therapy, dry needling, or strapping to reduce pain and improve comfort.

• Our practitioners prescribe targeted exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility. These exercises are designed to address the specific limitations caused by the chronic condition and may include stretching, strengthening, cardiovascular exercises, and functional movements. The practitioner guides and monitors your progress, making adjustments as needed.

• Our practitioners educate patients about their condition, teaching techniques to manage symptoms and prevent further complications. They provide guidance on proper body mechanics, ergonomic modifications, and home exercises to support self-management and long-term success.

• If necessary, our practitioners can recommend assistive devices such as braces, crutches, or walking aids to improve mobility and safety. They may also suggest modifications to the home or workplace environment to accommodate limitations and promote independence.

• Physical therapy is often an ongoing process, with regular sessions to monitor progress, adjust treatment plans, and provide support. The practitioner may also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians or occupational therapists, to ensure comprehensive care.

Physical therapy can benefit a wide range of chronic conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders, neurological conditions, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory conditions, and chronic pain syndromes. By addressing physical limitations, managing pain, and improving function, physical therapy aims to enhance your overall well-being and quality of life despite the challenges posed by the chronic condition.