Mobile Physiotherapy and Chronic Disease

Did you know that in Australia chronic conditions are the leading cause of illness, disability, and death?

Chronic diseases, like arthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, back pain, and osteoporosis, persist over a long period. Because of this, it can be challenging, but physiotherapy may be able to help you manage some aspects of these conditions.

At Valens Care, our physiotherapists support clients with a range of chronic conditions. Physiotherapy for chronic disease aims to support safer physical activity and empower you to live your life the way you want to and as independently as possible.

Here we discuss chronic diseases and how physiotherapy may help.

Table of Contents

Understanding chronic disease

Chronic diseases are long-term health conditions that persist over time and often progress slowly. They generally can’t be cured entirely, but rather managed.

Worldwide chronic diseases are a significant contributor to sickness, disability and premature death. For the individual, chronic conditions can significantly impact your day-to-day life by limiting your physical abilities, meaning you might struggle with everyday tasks and your overall health may suffer.

What kind of chronic disease can physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy for chronic disease involves working with individuals and their multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to support people with a range of chronic conditions.

Your physio will tailor care to you, helping you address the unique challenges of your condition.

Here are just a few examples of conditions Valens Care physios support with:

Chronic Lung Disease (i.e. asthma)– These conditions can make breathing difficult. Physiotherapy interventions aim to optimise your respiratory health and may include breathing exercises, airway clearance techniques and exercise programs aiming to help you improve lung function.
Cancer and cancer complications (i.e. lymphedema)– For some, cancer, its treatments or associated complications can take a toll on your strength, mobility and overall function. Physio cancer care may involve personalised exercise and rehabilitation programs to support strength and mobility or pain management.
Diabetes– Physiotherapy for diabetes aims to support glucose control by improving your overall health and weight management. Your physio may also give advice on foot care which is particularly important for preventing complications in those living with diabetes.
Heart disease– If you’re living with heart disease your physio may work with you to improve your cardiovascular function and endurance through tailored exercise programs. Your physiotherapist will work closely with you and your healthcare team to monitor your progress and adjust exercise intensity as needed. They may also give guidance on lifestyle modifications to support heart health.
Osteoporosis– The main aim of physiotherapy for osteoporosis is to reduce the risk of fractures and to support with pain management. Your physio will provide an exercise program including weight-bearing and resistance exercises. Physiotherapy may also include education on fall prevention.

Chronic disease management with physiotherapy

Physiotherapy may help both in managing and preventing certain chronic diseases. Here are just a few ways physiotherapy could help you:

Rehabilitation– Physiotherapists can create rehabilitation programs to address specific functional limitations caused by your condition. Our physios will be by your side, supporting you on your journey to build strength and mobility.

Exercise therapy– Regular physical activity is the cornerstone of the physiotherapy approach to managing chronic diseases. Valens Care physiotherapists can prescribe exercises, tailored to the condition you are living with, abilities and limitations. We use physical activity to help you manage the symptoms to help enhance your overall well-being.

Helping you to self-manage your condition- Self-management is an essential part of living with a chronic condition, and our physiotherapists are dedicated to empowering you with the knowledge and tools to take charge of your health. From educating you on body mechanics to providing strategies for pain management and lifestyle modifications, we ensure that you are equipped with the skills you need.

Managing comorbidities– Comorbidities occur when multiple conditions or diseases are present at the same time. For instance, you may experience chronic back pain or chronic neck pain along with your arthritis. Managing comorbidities can be complex but physios are well-equipped to handle multiple conditions simultaneously. By developing tailored exercise programs, offering guidance on lifestyle modifications, and providing support for pain and fatigue management, physiotherapy may help you navigate the challenges that arise from co-existing conditions.

The Valens Care Difference

At Valens Care, we pride ourselves on delivering personalised treatment that goes beyond traditional physiotherapy. We recognise that each client is unique and needs an individualised approach to treatment.

Our team is mobile and will travel to your location. We are also committed to monitoring your progress, and adapting your treatment plan for ongoing, consistent care.

If you receive NDIS funding, you may also be eligible to access physiotherapy services with Valens Care through your plan.

If you have a chronic health condition, contact the Valens Care team to see how physiotherapy may be able to help you.

* All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Valens Care can consult with you regarding your individual health needs.