What is an Exercise Physiologist?
An Accredited Exercise Physiologist is an allied health professional who specialises in the prevention, treatment and management of chronic disease and injury, through modes of exercise. All Exercise Physiologist's hold a four year University Degree and are also considered Accredited Sports Scientists.
Exercise Physiologists focus on the overall health and general wellbeing of a client, instead of just treating the injury or condition. For instance, a client with a condition, such as osteoarthritis in their knee, may be less active due to pain or discomfort. Therefore, an Exercise Physiologist will consider improving the client’s cardiovascular health, as well as implement strategies to decrease pain and increase movement in their knee.
How is an Exercise Physiologist Different to a Personal Trainer?
Exercise Physiologists are required to undertake extensive training at University in order to treat clients with chronic disease and other complex conditions. However, Exercise Physiologists can certainly treat clients without any known conditions and implement safe, individualised exercise programs to promote long-term health and wellbeing. An Exercise Physiologist can also implement specialized exercise programs for the prevention of conditions such as cancer, obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
How is an Exercise Physiologist Different to a Physiotherapist?
Exercise Physiology and Physiotherapy have similarities in they both use exercise to treat injury and illness.. However, Exercise Physiologists also use exercise in the prevention, or secondary prevention of chronic conditions, such as cancer and heart disease. Furthermore, Physiotherapists typically treat clients in the acute phase of rehabilitation, whereas Exercise Physiologists see a client in the sub-acute phase and focus on long-term management. Lastly, Exercise Physiologists only use exercise (including hydrotherapy and stretching) to treat their client, while a Physiotherapist may also use other manual therapies like massage, mobilisation and dry needling.
What Conditions can an Exercise Physiologist Treat?
Accredited Exercise Physiologists prescribe safe, individualised exercise programs for:
· Obesity
· Cardiovascular Disease
· Pulmonary Disease
· Diabetes
· Osteoporosis and arthritis
· Falls prevention
· Mental health
· Cancer
· Chronic Pain
· Women’s health
· Post-surgical rehabilitation
· Neuromuscular conditions (Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy and stroke, for example)
· Plus many other conditions
Accredited Exercise Physiologists also work with clients through TAC, DVA, WorkCover and Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plans.
Contact the clinic on 53 820 276 to make an appointment or press the book now button.