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Postpartum Mental Health 

While welcoming a new life into the world can be a time of absolute joy, the postnatal period can also bring a range of unexpected challenges for parents, particularly when it comes to mental health. 

Postnatal Depression 

Postnatal depression (PND) affects up to 1 in 5 mums, and 1 in 10 dads in the first year of their baby’s life. Unlike the transient and milder ‘baby blues,’ PND symptoms persist for longer than two weeks and significantly impact day-to-day functioning. PND usually does not resolve without additional intervention and support. Symptoms can include:

Differentiating PND from ‘Baby Blues’

Baby blues typically occur in the first week or two after childbirth and are characterised by feelings of tearfulness, difficulty sleeping, and heightened emotions. They tend to have less of an impact on your ability to manage day-to-day tasks. These symptoms are often attributed to hormonal changes following pregnancy and birth, and they tend to resolve on their own without lasting consequences.

Postnatal Anxiety and Postpartum Psychosis

In addition to PND, postnatal anxiety is another common mental health concern. It is characterised by strong feelings of worry or fear that are difficult to control (e.g., worrying excessively about your new baby, feeling scared of being alone), a sense of dread and physiological symptoms of anxiety (e.g., increased heart rate).

On the more severe end of the spectrum is postpartum psychosis, a rare but serious condition where mothers can lose touch with reality. Symptoms can include confusion, significant agitation, restlessness, hallucinations (hearing/seeing things that are not there) and/or delusions (rigid and untrue beliefs that are likely to be distressing).  Postpartum psychosis can come on quickly and is often highly distressing for mum and her loved ones. Postpartum psychosis requires immediate psychiatric assessment and support. 

Risk factors

There are various risk factors that can increase a mother’s chance of developing postnatal mental health issues, including:

How Psychology Can Help:

Navigating postnatal mental health is a complex journey that requires understanding, compassion, and proactive support. Evidence-based psychological therapy can help support individuals experiencing postnatal mental health struggles. Therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can provide valuable tools for coping, understanding, and navigating the complexities of postnatal mental health. Psychologists will work collaboratively with you to find the best approach that works for you and empower you with new skills to boost your confidence in parenting, increase emotional wellbeing and improve your support systems to reclaim joy in your journey through parenthood.

Other supports:

References

Postnatal depression | healthdirect

Depression-during-pregnancy.pdf (blackdoginstitute.org.au)

Perinatal depression: data from the 2010 Australian National Infant Feeding Survey, Summary – Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (aihw.gov.au)

How common are mental health issues in the perinatal period? (panda.org.au)

 

Emma Hunt is a Clinical  Psychologist at NLC Psychology and is currently consulting on Wednesdays and Saturdays at Malvern. Emma has experience working with individuals whose lives have been impacted by a variety of psychological difficulties, including depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders (including borderline personality disorder), disordered eating, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, and long COVID. In particular, she has a special interest in working with children, young people, and pre/post natal mums and their mental health.

For more information on how to start seeing a Psychologist at NLC Psychology, please call 08 8373 5655.

The Physio’s Guide to Returning to Work After a Break

Returning to work after a break might pose challenges, but with a focus on ergonomic practices, you can make your workday not only productive but also beneficial for your physical well-being. As a physiotherapist, Russell Turbill understands the importance of maintaining good posture, enhancing strength and mobility and staying active, especially as we transition back to the workplace after a break. In this post, Russell will provide you with some key things you can do when returning to work after a break! 

Embracing Ergonomics: Your Key to a Healthy Workday

1. Desk Setup: Your Command Center

2. Seated Posture: The Foundation of Comfort

3. Tech Timeouts: Protect Your Eyes and Neck

4. Movement Matters: Stay Active Throughout the Day

5. Hydration and Nutrition: Fuel Your Body Right

6. Mindful Breaks: Unplug and Recharge

7. Post-Work Recovery: Nurture Your Body

The Physio’s Final Thoughts

Returning to work after a break can be a positive experience for your overall health and wellbeing. By incorporating these ergonomic practices into your daily routine, you’ll be better equipped to face the challenges of the workday while keeping your body in tip-top shape. Remember, it’s the small adjustments that lead to big improvements, so be consistent in your efforts. Your body will thank you for it, and you’ll find yourself not only excelling at work but also living a more vibrant and active life.

New Year’s Resolutions: 3 Key Things to Focus On

As the New Year unfolds, it is common to set resolutions with the intention to lead a healthier lifestyle. However, for many of us, especially those managing a health or painful condition, navigating this journey can be a challenging experience. 

To help you get started in 2024, we would recommend the following 3 key things to focus on for your health and have some great tips for you too!

Be Active

Start with realistic and achievable activities, especially if you don’t exercise regularly usually. Simple things like a brisk walk or a short yoga session. Take it slow, gradually increasing intensity over a number of sessions, to minimise the risk of pain or injuries. Remember the goal is to improve your physical activity levels for the long term, so avoid a boot camp style of exercise which you are far less likely to maintain.

Making it a family affair with outdoor activities like walks and bike rides can add some fun to your exercise regime. You can even incorporate exercise into holiday traditions, like a morning jog or a family dance-off. 

Listen to your body—if you feel pain or discomfort, address it promptly and seek guidance if needed. Don’t forget to prioritise recovery by getting enough sleep and taking time to relax. By being mindful and starting with enjoyable activities, you can stay fit and healthy while enjoying the holiday season.

For more tips on staying active, you can read our blog here.

Eat Sensibly

As the festive season approaches, it’s common to want to maintain healthy eating habits despite the tempting array of food at social events. The team at 360Me Nutrition advocates for a balanced approach to nutrition, emphasising good portions and planning instead of strict restrictions. Here are some simple tips to enjoy holiday meals without compromising your health goals:

Opt for a lean meat option like turkey breast for the traditional Christmas roast, removing the skin for a healthier choice. Limit roast potatoes to a daily allowance, focusing on green veggies, carrots, and pumpkin. Dry roast or bake vegetables with a light oil spray to control calories. Aim for five servings of vegetables daily to help manage dessert cravings.

When it comes to festive desserts, enjoy them in moderation. Consider healthier alternatives, like a pavlova with low-fat cream cheese and fruit or choc-dipped strawberries. Use smaller plates or serve in ½ cup ramekins to control portion sizes. Arrive at events comfortably hungry, starting the day with a balanced breakfast, and eat regular, fibre-rich meals or snacks before attending evening functions. Choose what you truly love to eat, allowing yourself to swap out less favoured items, reducing guilt associated with food decisions.

Be mindful of alcohol consumption during celebrations. Opt for moderation, choosing clear spirits with soda water or diet mixers over beer and cider. If you prefer wine, pace yourself with one glass at a time, interspersed with non-alcoholic drinks. Aim for at least two alcohol-free days per week for overall well-being. By following these tips, you can navigate the festive season with a focus on enjoyment and balance.

Bonus Recipe: Christmas Cherry and Chocolate Balls

Sleep Well

Understanding the importance of sleep health is crucial, and a clinical psychologist sheds light on common reasons for daytime fatigue. One key consideration is whether there’s sufficient opportunity for sleep. In our busy lives, we often prioritise other tasks over rest. If you find yourself falling asleep immediately but constantly tired during the day, it might indicate insufficient time for quality sleep. Simple adjustments, like turning off screens and going to bed earlier, can make a significant difference.

Breathing-related sleep disorders are another factor, especially if you snore, wake up gasping, or experience brief breathing pauses at night. Seeking medical advice, including a possible overnight sleep study, is essential for addressing potential long-term health consequences. Insomnia, characterised by difficulty falling or staying asleep, can significantly impact daily life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i), administered by a psychologist with sleep disorder expertise, proves more effective in the long term than sleeping pills.

Circadian rhythm sleep disorders, where the body’s internal clock is out of sync with societal norms, can disrupt sleep patterns. If you struggle to sleep until the early hours and find waking up for work challenging, a psychologist with specialised training in sleep disorders can provide valuable insights and behavioural interventions. While the mentioned factors are common, a comprehensive sleep assessment by a professional is recommended for a personalised understanding of sleep patterns and potential issues.

Not sure if you have a sleep problem? Complete this quick screening questionnaire to receive some personalised feedback about your sleep quality from our clinical psychologist.

So, as we step into the New Year, prioritising health becomes paramount, especially for those managing health conditions. 

Focusing on three key things —being active, eating sensibly, and ensuring quality sleep—offers a holistic approach to well-being. 

From realistic exercise routines to mindful eating habits and addressing sleep concerns, these practical tips aim to guide individuals towards a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. 

Embrace these pillars of well-being in 2024, incorporating enjoyable activities, balanced nutrition, and a mindful approach to sleep, ensuring a journey towards improved health and vitality.

Our Tips for Staying Active this Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of festive preparations, family gatherings, and delicious indulgences. While it’s a time to celebrate and unwind, it’s crucial not to disregard our physical well-being and staying active.

This time of year, we often encounter clients who are eager to improve their fitness during the holiday season; so in this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of being mindful not to increase how much sport or heavy work you do around the house too quickly, offer tips on easing into exercise, and discuss practical ways to stay active over the Christmas holidays.

Balancing Exercise and Rest

The first thing we like to emphasise is the need for a  careful balance between activity and rest. During the holidays, it’s easy to get carried away with ambitious fitness goals, spend hours on end in the garden or playing one too many games of backyard cricket with the kids! Striking the right balance is key to preventing injuries and maintaining overall well-being.

Persistent aches, sharp pains, or increased stiffness could be indicative of underlying issues that require attention. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your physiotherapist or exercise physiologist if you notice any new aches or pains, or changes in your usual symptoms. We’re here to support you in managing your health, even during the busiest of times, and addressing concerns promptly can prevent minor issues from developing into more significant challenges. 

Our tips! 

Staying Active During the Holiday Season 

The holiday season shouldn’t be a hiatus from your commitment to health and fitness. By adopting a mindful approach to activities & easing into exercise, you can incorporate enjoyable activities into holiday routines, and balance well-being with the festive spirit. 

 

If you’re experiencing any discomfort, pain, or need guidance on staying active safely, don’t hesitate to contact us. 

To book with any of our experienced & qualified allied health staff, you can:

 

Physio Bike Fit

With a wealth of experience as a physiotherapist and cyclist behind him, Russell Turbill shares how he assesses both the rider and their bike in a Physio Bike Fit, and also some of the recent client problems that have been referred to him this year for help with their bike riding.

Is a Physio Bike fit just for serious cyclists and expensive bikes?

Definitely not. In fact, nearly all of the cyclists we see at the clinic are recreational or amateur riders. Some take their fitness activities seriously, but most are just regular people who would like to ride their bikes without pain getting in the way.

We also see people on all sorts of different bikes too, including road bikes, mountain bikes and hybrids. We have now also started to see people who ride e-bikes, as they become a more popular mode of transport.

Age doesn’t seem to be a barrier either. Over the years we have seen cyclists who vary in age from teenagers to octogenarians. That is one of the great things about bike riding, it is suitable for many different age groups and abilities.

It is not uncommon for the bike shop that sells you the bike, to take some basic measures to ensure that the bike is the right size for you, but this isn’t the same as a bike fit. There are a number of adjustments that can be made to accommodate the different needs of the rider, and these can change over time, especially if an injury or pain presents itself.

A bike fit can be a great way to help improve your comfort  when riding. It can help ensure you and your bike are connected optimally. It can also identify how you can modify the way you are riding to maximise your output and minimise potentially damaging forces and loads.

What happens at a Physio Bike fit appointment?

Prior to the session, we ask you to provide some basic information about your bike, the problems you are experiencing and what you are hoping to get out of the session. This is usually done either via email or phone.

When you attend the session at the clinic, we ask you to bring your bike with you and the clothing you usually wear when you are cycling too. In most cases, it is ideal for us to set up your bike on a stationary trainer and also to ask you to ride it during the assessment a few times. The intensity of the riding is usually low, unless there is a clinical reason that needs you to ride harder.

If you haven’t seen one of the Physios at our clinic recently, the session will typically start with some extra questions about the problems you are having, and how they are affected by riding your bike. We will often then also do some physical tests that look at your range of movement, strength and control of certain movements that relate to cycling and the issues you are having.

The assessment of the bike itself involves looking at the size of the frame, and then a number of measurements of the main areas that can be adjusted which involve the saddle, pedals/cleats and the handlebars. The measurements are documented as a benchmark, so we know the starting set up of the bike, from which we might make changes.

Then we would look at you on the bike, in the usual riding postures you would cycle in. This gives us an opportunity to do a head to toe analysis of your riding style, posture and other factors that might be contributing to your problems. We use tools such as laser levels, spirit levels, tape measures and photo/video analysis in the assessment to ensure we have accurate measurements to work from.

Bike fit

What happens after the assessment?

Based on our understanding of the cause of your problem, we combine our Physio knowledge with our bike knowledge to make recommendations for your bike set up and/or the way that you ride. 

The assessment findings and recommendations are discussed with you at the assessment, and then sent to you via email as a summary after the session. We also arrange a follow up appointment a few weeks later to check in on how things are progressing, as it can take some time for changes to be made safely. 

Can you share some examples of the types of problems people come to you for?

I can think of 3 Physio Bike Fit sessions conducted recently, which were all quite different.

The first involved a gentleman who was returning to road cycling following a significant lumbar disc injury earlier in the year. He was finding that riding was reproducing some of his previous symptoms into his thighs. One of the key findings in this assessment was that the set up of the bike was very aggressive, meaning that the drop in height from the seat to the handlebars was causing him to reach a long way forward and down to rest his hands on the bars. Although this is a very aerodynamic and fast posture to ride in if you are racing, the exaggerated flexed lower back posture was not suitable for his current condition and recovery from his injury.  As such, recommendations were made to raise the handlebars to put the patient’s back in a less aggressive position. Over time, as he recovers, it may be possible to gradually return to the original set up on the bike, if he were to return to a racing environment.

The second example involves a client who rides a more upright style e-bike. She had been recently receiving treatment for a neck issue with one of our physios and in these sessions she mentioned to them that her symptoms were often worsened by riding, which she did several times a week. To complement the physical and exercise treatment she was having with her treating physios, she was also referred for a Physio Bike Fit to see if there was anything that we could change on the bike that would assist her. During this session, we identified that she would benefit from a change in both seat height and handlebar height. This would allow her to adopt a more relaxed posture, and keep her elbows soft, helping to unload the neck on longer rides especially.

The last example involved a patient getting back into riding his mountain bike, who was hoping to ride a couple of times per week on a local bitumen road for fitness. He had suffered  a significant episode of brachialgia (nerve related arm pain) at the beginning of the year, and was worried that riding could re-aggravate his symptoms. Even just short periods of cycling were causing his arm to tingle with pins and needles. We found that his seat height was putting his body in a position that placed extra tension on his nerve roots, and causing him to place increased weight through his hands. Advice was provided around lowering the seat (which was set up too high), exploring alternate bar grips and relaxing his upper body posture when riding. As an aside, we also noticed that his pedaling technique was not ideal and may have contributed to some problems he had in the past with his knees and achilles tendon. 

The above recommendations were all made with collaboration between the rider and their treating physio, to ensure everyone was on board with what needed to be done.

So you can see there are a myriad of ways that a bike Assessment can help you ride more comfortably. 

How to Book

All Physio Bike Fits are conducted by our Senior Physio Russell Turbill at our Malvern clinic, you can book in to see him by:

Understanding and treating TMJ issues

The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is more than just a mouthful – it’s the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull on either side of your head. 

When this joint is out of balance, it can lead to a range of issues, including jaw pain, headaches and neck pain. 

Our team at Move for Better Health are here to help you understand and treat TMJ issues effectively.

What can cause TMJ Issues?

Before we outline potential treatment options, let’s pinpoint some common culprits behind TMJ issues:

  1. Stress – The daily grind can take a toll on your jaw. Clenching or grinding your teeth due to stress can lead to TMJ pain.
  2. Misalignment – An improper bite or dental issues can disrupt the harmony of your TMJ, causing discomfort.
  3. Injury – Trauma to the jaw or head can result in TMJ problems down the road.

Our Multidisciplinary Approach to TMJ Treatment

Achieving relief from TMJ issues is a journey, not a sprint. Our clinic is your trusted partner in this journey, offering not only expert care but also guidance and support every step of the way. We believe in empowering you with the knowledge and tools you need to take charge of your TMJ health.

Physiotherapy

Our physios have completed extra training in assessing and treating TMJ disorders. They have a variety of skills that can be helpful and can collaborate with the patient to suit their individual needs. 

Here’s a glimpse of how we can help:

We can also recommend other methods of treatment to complement what your physio is doing depending on your individual circumstances. 

This might include: 

Treatment Options Tailored to You

Our approach is holistic and patient-centred. We understand that no two individuals are the same. That’s why we tailor the treatment plans to your specific needs. Whether it’s physical therapy exercises, stress-reduction techniques, dental adjustments, or a combination of these, we’ve got you covered.

In the world of TMJ issues, understanding is key to finding relief. Here at Move for Better Health, we combine expertise, compassion, and a multidisciplinary approach to help you overcome TMJ challenges. 

If you’re ready to unlock the secrets of TMJ and embark on a path to pain-free living, contact us today via calling your preferred location or booking online here.

Welcome to the New Chapter for Eastern Sports and Spinal Care

For over three decades, Eastern Sports and Spinal Care has been a respected name in the world of Physiotherapy and Pilates. Founded by the dedicated Libby Austin, this clinic has been synonymous with top-quality care and unwavering support. Libby’s influence extended far beyond her role as a physiotherapist; she was a mentor, a sports medicine leader, and a guiding light for many in her field.

Earlier this year, we faced the loss of Libby Austin, a figure whose impact on the industry will always be remembered. In honour of her legacy and vision, we are thrilled to announce that Eastern Sports and Spinal Care is relocating to the Move for Better Health Centre at 500 Magill Road, Magill. This move was part of Libby’s long-term plan, designed to facilitate her gradual transition into retirement while ensuring the continued support of the clinic.

What to Expect:

Seamless Transition: All appointments and classes scheduled at Eastern Sports and Spinal Care will relocate to the Move for Better Health Centre at Magill starting on Monday, September 25th. This includes Physiotherapy sessions led by Georgia Orchard, equipment classes, and Pilates mat classes.

The Trusted Name Stays: We retain the name Eastern Sports and Spinal Care, and our contact number remains the same as we transition to Magill. Expect the same level of expert care and attention you’ve come to rely on.

A Dedicated Team: The committed staff from Eastern Sports and Spinal Care, including Physiotherapist Georgia Orchard, Vicky Andrews, Maria Di Troia, and Zoe Andrews, will continue to provide services at the Magill clinic. They join an existing team of admin staff and experienced allied health professionals at that site.

About Move for Better Health:

Founded by Physiotherapists Peter and Veronica, Move for Better Health has been a pillar of the community since 1996, offering physiotherapy and Pilates services. With values aligned with Eastern Sports and Spinal Care, we have been serving the community from our Magill, Malvern, and Glenelg locations. The Magill clinic, where Eastern Sports and Spinal Care will be relocated, has been operational for five years, providing a modern environment for allied health services, including gym and Pilates exercises, plus Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Psychology and Dietetics.

Quality Care, Unchanged:

We understand that change can be unsettling, but rest assured, we are dedicated to making this transition as effortless as possible. Our goal is to ensure you continue to receive the same high-quality care and support you’ve come to rely on.

Maximise Your Summer Sports Experience with Physiotherapy Expertise

This summer, let Move for Better Health’s physiotherapists enhance your summer sport experience! 

Whether you’re chasing personal best, seeking the thrill of performing well at competition, or a casual exerciser and someone looking to become more active during the summer, physiotherapy can be incredibly valuable for anyone looking to be more active, regardless of your current fitness level or athletic status.

It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

Remember, the key is to start working with a physiotherapist well in advance of your sport’s season. This will allow you ample time to address any issues, address the issues with a tailored plan, and improve your performance safely. 

Ideally, you should see a physiotherapist several weeks before your summer sports season begins. The exact timing can vary based on several factors, such as your current physical condition, any pre-existing injuries, and the specific requirements of your sport. However, a general guideline would be to start working with a physiotherapist at least 6-8 weeks before your sports season starts. 

Physiotherapy can offer several advantages:

1. Tailored Strategies for Enhanced Performance

At Move for Better Health, our skilled physiotherapists understand that every body is unique. We assess your individual needs, sports goals, and any existing concerns to create a personalised plan that maximises your performance potential. From educating you about proper warm-up and cool-down routines, injury warning signs, to techniques to care for your body before and after sport, and conditioning exercises to improve strength and agility, our strategies are finely tuned to your sport of choice.

2. Sport-Specific Conditioning: 

Whether you’re hitting the hiking trails, hitting the waves, or the soccer field, our physiotherapists tailor your training to suit the demands of your chosen activity. We can utilise a range of services including home programs, individual exercise sessions and group exercise sessions to focus on muscle groups, flexibility and movement patterns that are integral to your sport, ensuring your body is prepared for the increased demands of the sport.

3. Minimising risk of Injury: 

Nothing can put a damper on your summer sports enthusiasm like an unexpected injury. Our physiotherapy services are designed with injury risk reduction in mind. We analyse your movement patterns, identify potential risk factors, and provide exercises and techniques to fortify your body against injuries that could sideline your summer fun.

4. Swift Recovery and Rehabilitation:

Should an injury occur, our physiotherapy services seamlessly transition into rehabilitation. We guide you through a structured recovery plan, combining targeted exercises with hands-on techniques to manage your symptoms, restore function, and get you back in the game as quickly and safely as possible.

5. Long-Term Wellness, Year-Round: 

Our commitment to your well-being extends beyond the warmer months. We equip you with tools to sustain your progress, making health and vitality a lasting part of your lifestyle.

6. Trust in Experienced Professionals: 

Move for Better Health is home to a team of physiotherapists with a passion for sports excellence. With our continuous pursuit of knowledge and skills, you’re in the hands of experts who are dedicated to helping you achieve your summer sports aspirations. 

Our dedicated team at Move for Better Health is here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t leave your summer activity preparation to chance – take action now by booking a session with our experienced physiotherapists. Let’s work together to make this summer your most active and enjoyable one yet!

How to Book

To book with any of our experienced & qualified allied health staff, you can:

Move Together 2023 Conference

At the beginning of August, we held our annual Move for Better Health conference. This year’s theme was ‘Move Together’, focused on the wide-ranging expertise of our practitioners and support staff, and what we can achieve when we work together! 

Our team consists of Physiotherapists, Exercise Physiologists, Podiatrists, Psychologists, Dietitians, Remedial Massage Therapists, and administrative support staff, which allowed for lots of information to be shared and learned.

The conference spanned across two days, and was held away from our clinics at the fantastic Unley Oval Hub venue. We had a number of guest speakers, as well as some of our team, present to our group. The aim of this conference was to look for new ways in which we can work together to provide the best level of care for our clients, and to provide multidisciplinary management.

We were fortunate to have the support of OPC Health, who was the major supporter and conference partner of the 2023 Move Together conference. OPC Health is a long term supplier to Move for Better Health in South Australia. We are very grateful for their support of our team’s learning and development. 

In addition to our Conference Partner, we would also like to thank the following sponsors for their support of our program. BMS Insurance, Perks Business & Wealth and Commuserv  with many of them also presenting to our team.

Day 1

The conference opened with guest speaker Melina Lipkiewicz, a high performing leader, coach and facilitator who helped us reflect on our shared strengths, values and purpose. Our team strives to create a positive environment for both our clients and each other, so it was a fitting opening topic for our conference to discuss and understand what we’re working towards and why!

For something different, this year we hosted a Pecha Kucha competition for our staff. A new concept for most of us, Pecha Kucha is a fast-paced presentation format where the speaker covers 20 slides with a strict limit of 20 seconds per slide. We had 6 of our team members present on topics close to their heart, which were both very entertaining and informative! The winner of the competition was Exercise Physiologist, Dave Lowrey, who provided a brief history of questionable gym equipment. The prize money for the top 3 presenters (as voted by their peers) were all generously donated to charity by the winners. We can’t wait for our next Pecha Kucha competition! 

We then broke up into groups for more specific professional development. Our Physios and Podiatrists teamed up to hear from our conference partner, OPC Health, about the latest supports and braces that we can use to help our clients in their treatment. Our Exercise Physiologists and Psychologists heard from Clinical Psychologist, Patrick Carson, on behavioural change and what we can do to help make long lasting, meaningful changes in our clients lives. Our support staff also teamed up to look at what we can do to provide a great experience for our clients and practitioners!

Day 2 

We had a jam-packed second day of conference, and were particularly privileged to have guest speaker Associate Professor James McLoughlin present to us on Motor Control and Clinical Reasoning. James did a fantastic job in covering the various concepts and principles of motor control, which can apply to almost everything we do within the allied health space. This can impact general movement and mobility issues, rehabilitation, specific health conditions (especially neurological conditions, like Vertigo or BPPV, stroke or Parkinsons), and even how we design exercise and rehabilitation programs.

We continued on with a case-study discussion, involving Physiotherapy, Psychology, Exercise Physiology, Podiatry, Dietetics and Remedial Massage, to better understand how each allied health discipline could help with different presentations and conditions. 

Max Martin, Exercise Physiologist and co-owner at iNform Health & Fitness Solutions, also shared some case studies specifically relating to iNform’s Fitness Forecaster program. This is an innovative and data-driven program, developed to achieve optimal fitness and well-being for future years. We are all familiar with the concept of financial superannuation to help you save for your future. The Fitness Forecaster program provides an analysis of your current physical capacities to ensure you have enough ‘physical superannuation’ to help you achieve your goals in the later stages of life – like carrying a heavy suitcase on overseas trips, or picking up your children or grandchildren. As the Fitness Forecaster now has a year of data to reflect upon, it was clear to see the positive health outcomes that clients have been able to achieve!

Conference sponsor BMS Insurance joined us after lunch to discuss best practice in the allied health industry, and the many things we can do to ensure our clients have a positive experience with us. 

To close the conference, another of our sponsors and Adelaide-local Commuserv joined us to share information about Cyber Security. Many Australians have been affected in the last year or so by wide-spread corporate data breaches, so our cyber security is something we take very seriously especially working in the healthcare industry. It provided our team with some great tips on maintaining high levels of security and confidentiality.

Ultimately, the Move Together Conference for 2023 provided a fantastic opportunity for our wider teams to meet and share their knowledge and expertise. We were incredibly appreciative of our conference partner and sponsors and guest speakers who provided some excellent information and teachings. 

We hope our strong focus on professional development and multi-disciplinary care continues to benefit our clients, practitioners and support staff alike!

Why Choose Move for Better Health for Physio-Led Pilates Services

Pilates is fast-becoming the exercise of choice for many Australians, and rightly so, with potential benefits ranging from increased strength through to helping treat neck problems and headaches. This has subsequently led to an increased number of Pilates studios across Australia offering this type of exercise. However, in addition to the benefits, it is also important to understand the risks that Pilates may pose, and the efforts that we put in place at Move for Better Health in order to mitigate them through Physio-led Pilates.

Expertise

Our team of Physiotherapists at Move for Better Health use their expertise in musculoskeletal conditions and movement to understand the intricacies of the human body and how to optimise Pilates exercises for individual needs. In addition to their Physiotherapy degrees (and additional Masters studies that many of our physios have undergone), members of our team have undertaken additional specific training or Certification in Pilates through the Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute and/or Polestar Pilates. We also continuously improve our skills through regular internal Pilates professional development sessions.

Pilates

Our Individualised Approach

We harness the positive benefits that Pilates has in relation to rehabilitation and injury prevention by conducting thorough assessments to identify underlying musculoskeletal issues, design personalised Pilates programs, and closely monitor clients’ progress class-by-class. 

We understand that everyone’s circumstances and goals are different, this is why we individually-tailor your program with specific exercises and loads. This  helps you improve the problem areas that have been identified throughout the assessment process while reducing the  risk of aggravating them. 

In order to provide the level of care required for your needs, our initial assessment allows us to gauge your personal circumstances, any current issues or conditions, and your personal motivations. Following this, you will have one-on-one sessions with your physio in the equipment studio in order to learn and experiment with exercises in a closed and safe environment. 

Once your individual program is finalised, you will move into a physio-led class. To ensure the appropriate amount of physio time and attention is available to you, we cap the number of participants in our class in order to not over-crowd the room and reinforce our client-first approach. This tailored approach ensures you receive personalised care and progress at a pace suitable for your abilities.

Comprehensive Care and Collaboration

As an allied health centre, we offer a comprehensive range of services that range beyond the equipment studio. With a multidisciplinary team including physiotherapists, podiatrists, massage therapists, exercise physiologists, dietitians, and psychologists, our clients can access a holistic approach to health and wellness. This collaborative environment allows for seamless communication and integrated care, ensuring you receive the most comprehensive and effective treatment options available.

Client-First Dedication

At Move for Better Health, we have been running physio-led Pilates classes for over two decades, and over this time we have learnt and adapted based on client’s needs and best industry practices. We always look to put our clients first, which exemplifies our dedication to providing exceptional care and achieving positive long-term outcomes. With a team of highly trained professionals, a focus on rehabilitation and injury prevention, and a commitment to personalised care, we always aim to provide a safe and effective Pilates experience.

If you would like to start your Pilates journey with us at either our Malvern, Magill, or Glenelg clinics, you can call us on 8373 5655 (Malvern), 7070 0303 (Magill), or 8295 1294 (Glenelg). 

Otherwise, you can book your initial Physiotherapy assessment online here.

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