An exercise physiologist is an allied health professional who specialises in the assessment, prescription and execution of physical activity to assist in managing medical conditions or improving general health through movement.
All exercise physiologists are tertiary trained and educated, and their qualification has met the stringent criteria set by Exercise & Sports Science Australia. Exercise physiologists are experts in developing programs to improve your quality of life and wellbeing through individually prescribed physical activity, education, information and supporting you with sustainable healthy lifestyle choices.
Working with an exercise physiologist can be beneficial for many people and conditions, including the management of:
Chronic diseases
Musculoskeletal or neurological conditions
Recovery and prevention from muscle and bone injuries,
Mental health
Age-related conditions and impairments
General functional movement, strength and balance; making it easier to continue doing the things you enjoy in life.
And rehabilitation after surgical procedures.
The role of physical activity and specialised movement in elevating overall health, managing health conditions, extending life and as a preventative measure is indisputable. While they are not able to cure or reverse diseases or chronic illnesses, an exercise physiologist can aid in easing the pain caused by certain conditions, regaining strength and agility and improving quality of life. Especially important as we age is building strength and improving balance to reduce the risk of a fall and other injuries, as well allowing you to be independent at home for longer.
Conditions that have been scientifically proven to benefit from physical activity include Parkinson’s Disease, Type 2 diabetes, and arthritis.
In the case of Parkinson’s Disease, physical activity is imperative in treating and managing the disease. Regular exercise including cardio, strength and balance training and stretching can significantly improve mobility, endurance and muscle strength.
Similarly, working with an exercise physiologist to treat arthritis can improve mobility and flexibility of joints and reduce pain, fatigue and muscle tension and stress.
Seeing an exercise physiologist regularly can come at a large cost, but there are a few ways in which these services can be funded, including:
through Commonwealth aged care programs, such as Home Care Packages,
through Medicare or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs,
through workers compensation, your Health Fund, or privately.
It can start with a simple referral from your GP. Just ask your GP to consider the suitability of a referral for you to one of our exercise physiologists. It’s always worth asking the question!
If you are not sure about the funding options or want to know more about how exercise physiology can help you, give us a call at Care Forward and one of our team members will help with all and any inform
We’re here to provide support that helps improve your health and home care.