Make your assessment practical
Start with a task you want to manage.
Getting out of a chair, stepping up a kerb or walking a familiar route are useful examples to discuss. Bring your usual walking aid and tell us about falls, near falls or changes in confidence so these can be considered during assessment.
Start with your everyday goals.
Getting out of a chair, moving around the house or walking to the shops can feel different when your strength or balance changes. You may be taking more time, using extra support or feeling less confident about activities you used to manage.
At Keep Me Walking Physiotherapy in Elizabeth Park, we discuss the tasks that matter to you. Your appointment is a chance to explain what has changed and what you would like help with.
Understanding how you move.
Your physiotherapist asks about your health, movement concerns, previous falls and usual activities. Depending on your needs, assessment may include walking, standing balance, leg strength or movements such as getting up from a chair. Each part is explained and adapted to what you can manage.
Balance concerns can have several causes. Your physiotherapist can discuss when input from your GP or another health professional may be helpful.
A practical plan, discussed together.
Following assessment, care may include:
- Exercises selected for your current strength and movement ability.
- Practice of everyday tasks that relate to your goals.
- Advice about suitable activity and how to practise safely.
- Review of your response and changes to the plan when appropriate.
Tell us about the space, support and time available to you. These details help us discuss realistic options. If your goals relate to disability, our NDIS physiotherapy information explains what to discuss before booking.
Preparing for your appointment.
Bring your usual walking aid if you use one, comfortable footwear, relevant reports and a medication list. Think about a few movements you find difficult and what you hope to work towards. Let our team know about support, communication or access needs when arranging your visit.
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 have had a fall?
No. You can discuss changes in strength, walking or steadiness before a fall occurs. If you have already had a fall, let your GP know as well so any need for medical assessment can be considered.
Will everyone receive the same exercises?
Your assessment, goals and circumstances guide the plan. Exercises and review needs can differ between people. Your physiotherapist explains your individual plan and discusses questions before you begin.
More information: healthdirect: understanding falls and balance concerns.