How to get the most out of your sessions with an exercise professional
Most physiotherapists and exercise physiologists work in private practice, and you will have to pay for any sessions you attend with them. Prices will vary.
However, your GP can write you a Medicare Chronic Disease Plan that allows you to get a rebate for up to 5 sessions with a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist each calendar year.
If you have private health insurance ‘extras’ cover this may also cover some of the cost of seeing an exercise professional. (But you will not be able to claim on both Medicare and your insurance at the same visit.) Check with your insurer if you’re unsure.
What to expect at your first appointment with an exercise professional
Many people will be nervous about attending their first appointment with an exercise professional, especially if they haven’t been active in a long time.
An exercise professional will understand that that there are many reasons why people are not exercising. They will not expect you to start exercising as soon as you walk into the appointment!
At your first appointment an exercise professional will generally ask a lot of questions. Remember that you can also ask questions too.
They should ask about your overall health, any medicines you take, your level of pain and how your arthritis is affecting your life. They should also ask what you would like to achieve from being more active. They should examine you and ask you to perform some movement assessments. It’s a good idea to wear loose clothing to your first appointment so it’s easier to complete these assessments.
Once these assessments are complete, they will work with you to develop a treatment plan and exercise goals that are suitable for you.
Following your exercise plan
Your exercise professional should work with you to develop an exercise treatment plan that is safe, effective, and enjoyable. It should include activities that you enjoy and are convenient to help keep you motivated.
With any plan you should start slowly, so you don’t overdo it and risk an injury or flare.
Your exercise professional can create a home-based program for you. It may include muscle strengthening, flexibility exercises and balance exercises, as well as exercise to improve your aerobic fitness. They will make sure you can do them safely, so you don’t cause an injury.
To make the most of your plan, try to follow your prescribed exercises outside of sessions and stay active.
There may be times when you need to take it easy (such as during a flare) and modify your exercise program for a time. Your exercise professional can advise you on this. As soon as it’s safe to do so, return to your regular exercise plan, remembering to build up slowly again.
Keep track of your progress with the help of your exercise professional and other members of your healthcare team. With time you may find the benefits of keeping active (reduced pain and overall better health) are enough to keep you motivated without needing a professional to supervise you.