Deeply listening and asking relevent questions to clearly understand a patient’s needs, areas of challenge, contributing factors and goals. This may include analysis of presenting condition, past medical history, movement (general, occupational and recreational), social supports, environmental inputs, ergonomics, mobility, sleep, stress, hydration, nutrition, breathing, mental health and general health. Your Physio will provide clear communication and the space to be heard.

An objective examination looks at how the body functions. This may include observation of posture and movement, assessment of stability, muscular and neural mobility, strength, ligamentous integrity, bony injury and focal pathology. Also when required more specific examination may be relevant eg. patients with vertigo. This information helps formulate a diagnosis and sets the foundation for an intervention that will be enjoyable, sustainable and beneficial.

Treatment strategies are designed to improve key target areas identified in the assessment, such as:

strength
mobility
balance
neural mobility
postural stability
cardio vascular function and fitness
vestibular function
stress and mindfulness
chronic disease management

This is achieved through facilitating movement, mindfulness, breathwork, ergonomic education and changes, environmental and social support. Ideally incorporated into activities of interest to improve adherence and using agreed goals as motivation. Manual therapy is also used if needed.

How you feel about this process is very important to us. The space to provide feedback during and after sessions is essential to providing a quality service that meets your needs.

Sometimes assessment will indicate a need for referral to imaging (Xray or MRI) or onto other treatment providers (eg Doctor, Specialist, Dietician, Psychology or OT). It may also be relevant to talk to Family, the Medical and allied care team, schools, sporting clubs and funding bodies by phone, letter or through report writing. This communication can be provided by your Physio but only ever with your consent.