With this new way of living and working, prioritising our mental and physical health is more important than ever.
Most of us are out of our routine, including being unable to attend regular appointments with allied health professionals, such as a physiotherapist. The good news is that many are gradually reopening and are also taking advantage of technology and consulting via phones and computers.
Isn’t physiotherapy just a remedial massage?
For those not overly familiar with the work of physiotherapists, we do more than provide a massage. Your physiotherapist can help manage any physical concerns or discomfort via Zoom or a similar video conferencing service.
Hands on treatment is only a small component of what we do. With our extensive clinical knowledge and assessment skills we can virtually assess your posture, strength and movement, diagnose the source of your pain and take you through a home exercise program in detail.
Recent evidence also indicates the best treatment for physical conditions is education, exercise rehabilitation and self-management strategies. It shows there is a shift from treatment being done to you, to treatment being done with you.
Why should I try tele-physiotherapy?
Tele-physiotherapy empowers the patient to take charge of their own conditions. You’re also supported by an app which provides an individualised exercise program with narrated exercise videos, education and advice relevant to your condition. This allows the patient and physiotherapist to track your progress and symptoms.
The use of technology means that your recovery journey has never been easier to keep on track, and you’ll never forget your exercises. Plus, we’ll know if you haven’t done them!
What can a physiotherapist treat remotely?
Physiotherapists can treat a range of injuries via telehealth including acute sprains and strains of muscles or ligaments, overuse injuries, postural and stress related neck and back pain, headaches, pre and post-surgical rehabilitation, persistent pain and even breathing pattern or pelvic floor disorders.
We can also do biomechanical assessments and exercise prescription as well as ergonomic and work station assessments via video.
Am I suitable for telehealth?
The good news is that telehealth is for just about anyone, and you don’t even need to be tech savvy. All you need is access to the internet, a device and a physiotherapist assessment.
If you have chronic health issues (such as an existing heart condition) which impacts your ability to exercise, it is important to get medical clearance before your consultation. If you have a carer or someone who assists you to move it is best to arrange a time when they will be present.
How do I prepare for my telehealth physiotherapy session?
Making sure that you have a good set up will ensure you get the most out of your telehealth treatment.
You will need a computer, tablet or mobile phone with Zoom (or chosen video conferencing platform) downloaded. You will need to ensure that you have both video and audio capabilities so you can hear and see your physiotherapist and vice versa. You will also need a stable internet connection.
Make sure you set up a cleared area to perform standard exercises. A yoga or exercise mat can make things more comfortable should you need to get on the floor. Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move without restriction, and can easily expose the affected area, for example shorts and a singlet. The area needs to be private with phones set to silent mode, as we want to maintain confidentiality and avoid interruptions.
About Jess Montgomery:
Jess Montgomery grew up in South Africa before moving to New Zealand with her family. She graduated as a physiotherapist in 2012 from the Auckland University of Technology (AUT). She has worked in a variety of settings including residential aged care, schools, sporting clubs and private practice. Jess went on to complete a clinical Masters in Musculoskeletal therapy at the AUT and worked with high level sporting clubs in New Zealand.
In 2018 Jess moved to Melbourne where she continued to work in private practice, before joining the HealthStrong team. Jess has a special interest in musculoskeletal injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation and persistent pain. Jess had been treating Medibank customers at the Docklands Melbourne retail store’s Health Hub. She’s now supporting patients via telehealth.
If you have any questions about telehealth please email Jess.
If you’d like to make an appointment with Jess, you can book online
About HealthStrong:
Part of Medibank, HealthStrong is a leading national provider of mobile allied health services.
With a team of over 300 allied health practitioners, we see clients wherever they choose to call home – whether that’s their own home, an aged care facility or in a retirement village. Our services are available to all Australians, not just Medibank customers.
HealthStrong services include physiotherapy, pain management, podiatry, occupational therapy, diversional therapy, speech therapy, optometry (NSW only), audiology and dietetics.
During the coronavirus (COVID-19) health emergency, HealthStrong is following all Federal and State Health Department guidelines to protect the health and wellbeing of our clients and employees.
