Make your assessment practical
Build the plan around your routine.
Discuss the space and equipment you have, activities you already do and what makes exercise difficult to maintain. Your physiotherapist can help you understand the purpose of each exercise and review whether the plan is manageable between appointments.
Build activity around your needs.
After an injury, surgery or a period of reduced activity, you may be unsure how to start exercising again. Everyday tasks, work demands or a favourite activity can also highlight changes in your strength or movement.
Exercise rehabilitation at our Elizabeth Park physiotherapy clinic focuses on your individual situation. We discuss what you would like to do, what currently gets in the way and the level of support that may be appropriate.
Find a suitable starting point.
Your physiotherapist asks about your symptoms, health history, usual activity and any advice from your treating team. Depending on your concerns, assessment may look at movement, strength, balance or tasks relevant to your goals. Explain any previous exercise difficulties or concerns so these can be considered.
If you are recovering from surgery, bring your surgeon’s instructions and relevant reports. Our post-operative rehabilitation page explains more about planning care around your recovery stage.
Understand the plan and its purpose.
Your physiotherapist may recommend exercises to address the findings of your assessment. The discussion can include:
- Which movements to practise and what each exercise is intended to address.
- How much activity is appropriate for your current circumstances.
- How to fit the plan around your routine and available equipment.
- What to monitor and when to contact the clinic for advice.
Ask questions and practise the movements together so the instructions are clear. The plan should be discussed with you, including alternatives and any relevant precautions.
Review how it fits your life.
Tell your physiotherapist how the exercises feel and whether the plan is manageable between appointments. Reviews can consider changes in symptoms, movement and the activities you are working towards. The exercises or their demands may then be adjusted. Progress and appointment frequency vary with your needs and response.
What to bring.
Wear comfortable clothing and bring relevant referrals, reports or an existing exercise plan. Let us know about any equipment you use and activities you hope to return to. You do not need to buy equipment before your assessment.
Your physiotherapy appointment.
See Jency Donda, physiotherapist, at our Elizabeth Park clinic. For a GP care plan, NDIS, DVA, Support at Home or WorkCover appointment, check the relevant referral and plan information before booking.
Helpful questions.
Do I need to be fit before booking?
No. Your current abilities are part of the assessment. Explain any difficulty or uncertainty about exercise so suitable options can be discussed.
Can this relate to a sports injury?
Exercise may be part of rehabilitation after a sports or everyday injury. Visit our sports injury rehabilitation page for information about assessment and planning a return to activity.
More information: healthdirect: rehabilitation after illness or injury.