Exercise Physiology at RSMC

RSMC provides an Exercise Physiology service that works towards establishing the optimal outcome in health and wellness for each individual case. Kate is committed to providing an evidence-based, well-rounded approach to treatment which focuses on physical activity and exercise while also providing patient education and self-management strategies where needed. This ensures a professional and comprehensive service that aims to not only address one’s current health issues, but prevent others in the future.

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Exercise Physiology for health

Clinical exercise interventions may help in the management of various health issues, including those outlined below.

Injury rehabilitation

Exercise Physiology services can assist in returning people to their optimal level of health and functioning following traumatic injuries or conditions such as soft tissue injuries, fractures, joint problems, chronic pain issues, and post-surgical deconditioning. Exercise interventions may be utilised for returning to sporting participation or work, maintaining function through disease or simply making it easier to achieve activities during daily living. Clinical exercise design may also be utilised to prevent such issues, for example by correcting postural deviations or faulty biomechanics.

Arthritis and Fibromyalgia

Many people who suffer arthritis fear that activity may increase the pain that the condition causes them, but did you know that exercise therapy has been proven by research to be an effective pain management strategy? Even gentle physical activity can improve the ease with which one performs activities in daily living, and also serves to improve mood and self-esteem with the added benefit of increasing one’s general fitness levels. An Exercise Physiologist can help determine an exercise plan for the management of various arthritic conditions (such as Osteo and Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Fibromyalgia) including how to balance activity with rest.

Osteoporosis and falls risk reduction

Evidence suggests that the risk of osteoporotic fracture can be reduced by up to 50% with the implementation of regular physical activity. An Exercise Physiologist recognises the appropriate type of exercise program for achievement of peak bone mass and muscular strength, whilst facilitating activities for balance training and coordination. In this way, exercise can address critical issues such as fear of falling, mobility impairment, activity restriction, pain, and loss of self-esteem.

Neurological conditions

Exercise treatment is frequently used to aid the management of conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Dementia, Multiple Sclerosis, and brain and spinal injuries. Physical activities are important in helping one to maintain independent functioning for day-to-day activities, while improving overall quality of life. More specific benefits may include optimisation of cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility, mobility, balance, mental functioning and mood, as well as minimisation of fatigue and exhaustion.

Cardiovascular Disease

Physical activity is an important part of recovery and rehabilitation following traumatic events such as heart attacks and heart surgery (including insertion of stents, bypass surgery, valve replacements and pacemaker insertion) and can also assist in the management heart failure. In addition, exercise is an essential aspect in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol. Professional guidance and support ensures a safe environment for people undertaking activity while also decreasing the risk of future medical issues.

Pulmonary Diseases

Exercise therapy can benefit those with lung conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (chronic bronchitis and emphysema) and chronic asthma. While such diseases often affect people’s ability to perform day-to-day activities, physical activity can reduce breathlessness, enhance physical functioning and improve one’s quality of life. A pulmonary rehabilitation program prescribed by an Exercise Physiologist may also include education and self-management techniques which assist the patient to understand their condition.

Weight Management and Metabolic Control

Physical activity prescription is a vital part of the treatment plan for metabolic lifestyle issues such as elevated blood sugar levels (including diabetes, see below), high cholesterol and obesity. Professional assistance for exercise and behaviour modification is especially recommended for persons who have developed each of these issues, as well as high blood pressure, for a disease now commonly recognised as ‘Metabolic Syndrome’. An Exercise Physiologist can also give you advice on prevention strategies for these conditions to decrease the risk of diabetes and heart diseases – even a weight loss of only 10% in overweight people can significantly reduce the risk of developing these lifestyle diseases.

Diabetes

While physical activity should be a part of any healthy lifestyle program, it becomes especially important for anyone living with diabetes. Physical activity on a regular basis improves the body’s metabolic control while at the same time reducing other cardiovascular disease risk factors which those with diabetes are susceptible to. An appropriate exercise program can assist in the prevention, treatment and management of Type 2 Diabetes and the reduction of long-term complications and management of Type 1 Diabetes. An Exercise Physiologist can also provide guiding information on the important issue of how to balance physical activity with medication regimes.

Cancer

In Australia, one in two people will be diagnosed with cancer by the time they are 85. Although there are various factors to take into account when considering causes of cancer, an inactive lifestyle is considered one of the known risk factors for developing the disease. While exercise is important in the prevention of cancer, it can also positively influence quality of life for cancer patients during treatment and recovery. Clinically prescribed activity may assist in maintaining or improving overall body fitness and immune functioning, while also potentially reducing side-effects of treatment such as nausea, fatigue and pain, as well as psychological and emotional stress.

Depressions

Leading a physically active lifestyle can help in the prevention and treatment of mild to moderate depression and anxiety. Clinically depressed people often suffer lower than average levels of physical fitness, leading to decreased energy levels. Studies show that by participating in regular physical activity, sufferers of depression can improve mood, regulate sleeping patterns, better manage negative thoughts and increase general well-being. A prescribed program may involve a range of different activities, with a focus on determining what the patient finds most enjoyable.

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Exercise Physiology for performance

Many competitors (recreational or higher level) are searching for ways to jump higher, run faster or increase specific strengths for their chosen discipline. Exercise Physiology can help maximise ability in skills like these many more. An Exercise Physiologist will evaluate and discuss training history and goals, then work with relevant parties to implement an individualised program for the athlete’s specific needs. Advice centres not just on training, but also on competition and recovery practices for a complete approach to performance enhancement.

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