Introduction
Exercise physiology encompasses the management, prevention, and treatment of a wide range of physical conditions. Exercise physiologists study the human body in motion by measuring its response to different types of activity. They use this information to help people improve their fitness levels and prevent injuries by developing a personalised exercise program.
Through the prescription of exercise Accredited exercise physiologists (AEPs) can help treat many chronic conditions, including those who are being treated through private health insurers, WorkCover, Medicare, My Aged Care, the Department of Veteran Affairs and the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
What is Exercise Physiology?
Exercise physiology is a profession that focuses on understanding how the human body adapts to physical activity. Exercise physiologists are trained to assess an individual’s health, fitness level, and goals in order to create personalised exercise programs that are tailored to the individual’s needs and abilities. This approach allows exercise physiologists to help people improve their fitness and reach their health and wellness goals, even if they have disabilities, chronic diseases, or chronic injuries.
What does an Exercise Physiologist do?
An accredited exercise physiologist is a healthcare professional who specialises in working with patients to help them prevent, manage and recover from illnesses, injuries and other health conditions.
An assessment is a process during which the patient’s physical capacity and fitness level are evaluated through testing and/or observation to determine if there are any limitations to further activity or participation in regular activities.
To do this, exercise physiologists assess the patient’s current status using various tests, including strength testing, aerobic capacity testing, flexibility measurements, functional tests and body composition analysis. Depending on the patient’s needs or goals an exercise physiologist will recommend appropriate strategies such as: aerobic training; resistance training; individualised flexibility exercises; balance training; bone health activities; falls prevention strategies etc.. Strategies are designed to help clients increase their level of physical activity over time, so they can progress independently and safely.
Accredited exercise physiologists work across a range of health settings including public and private hospitals, private and multidisciplinary clinics, government and not-for profit organisations, workplace health and rehabilitation, aged care facilities, fitness centres, gymnasiums and sports organisations.
Who Should see an Exercise Physiologist?
The answer is simple. Anyone can see an exercise physiologist. The services of an exercise physiologist are used by individuals of all ages and backgrounds to achieve health and wellness goals, including those looking to maintain their general health and wellness, who are dealing with a specific medical issue or injury and need guidance on how to deal with it.
How can an Exercise Physiologist Help Me?
If you are overweight, physically inactive or have a medical condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure or osteoporosis, an exercise physiologist can help you by providing advice on exercise and lifestyle. They will also help with injury prevention and rehabilitation. In addition they may also be able to assist with:
- cardiovascular conditions such as Hypertension or Chronic Heart Failure;
- metabolic conditions such as Diabetes (Type 1 and 2) or Metabolic Syndrome;
- neurological conditions such as Stroke or Multiple Sclerosis;
- musculoskeletal conditions such as Osteoarthritis or Lower Back Pain.
Exercise treatment will typically include: an exercise program, health and physical activity education, advice and support lifestyle modification with a strong focus on achieving behaviour change with the aim of optimising physical function, health and wellness.
I am in Pain. Can an Exercise Physiologist Help me?
Pain management is one of the many services that an accredited exercise physiologist can provide. An exercise physiologists can help you manage pain while they also work with you to develop strategies for improving overall health through physical activity. They will take into account your age, activity level, physical condition along with other factors in order to determine how much stress (or strain) can be put on your body without causing injury or creating more pain than necessary while still allowing for improvement over time!
Can and Exercise Physiologist help me if I am injured or have a chronic disease?
The answer is yes. An accredited exercise physiologist can help you with your chronic injury or chronic disease. They will be able to assist you in rehabilitation and pain management, prevent injuries from occurring, help you return to work and sports, achieve weight loss goals, improve your quality of life and more.
Is Exercise Physiology covered by DVA
Veterans can be covered for treatment of specific conditions accepted by the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA). To receive this coverage, they will need to obtain a DVA referral from their general practitioner. Veterans with a White or Gold Card may be able to receive up to 12 sessions as part of a DVA treatment cycle.
When they begin their treatment, their allied health provider will ask about their health goals and prepare a Patient Care Plan. After they have completed their course of treatment, their provider will send a report to their regular GP. This report will include details about what was done, how well it worked, and whether any additional care or treatments are needed.
Their GP will review this report to determine whether additional treatments are necessary or if other treatment options should be considered. They may refer the veteran back to their allied health provider for further assessment and treatment.
Is Exercise Physiology covered under the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a program that provides support to individuals with disabilities, their families, and their caregivers. Through the NDIS, individuals can access exercise therapy, also known as exercise physiology, as a form of Capacity Building Support. Exercise therapy can help individuals with disabilities improve their functional ability and increase their ability to perform activities of daily living. It can also help them engage in community-based activities and pursue their personal interests.
Conclusion
Exercise physiology is a profession that focuses on understanding how the human body responds to physical activity and helping people improve their fitness and physical function. Accredited exercise physiologist’s can help prevent, manage, and treat a wide range of conditions and diseases, from chronic illnesses to injuries.
