Sunday, December 15, 2013

Health Point Physiotherapy 5 Year Anniversary

Practice Update

 
We are excited to announce that November marked the 5 year anniversary of our Centre, Health Point Physiotherapy!
 
 
 

To celebrate we are pleased to announce the following promotion to all new patients:

 
50% off your first session PLUS a FREE fisiocrem which is great for neck, back and joint pain and is all natural - that's a saving of up to $75!

To take advantage of this amazing offer you must book in before the 31 December 2013.

Spread the word to all your family and friends too - those who have been putting off having their aches and pains assessed and treated. This promotion is also great for those who are just interested in health maintenance, exercise and disease prevention.

Book in now - call us on 9576-9233


To find out more information about us go to: www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au
 
 


Thursday, November 21, 2013

Healthy Lifestyle Tips

 

 

What does a healthy lifestyle involve?

 
 
Healthy lifestyle is not jumping from one fad diet to another, sporadically going to the pool to do a few dozen laps or occasionally going for a walk on the beach to get some sunshine. Nor is it going to the gym in order to lose weight and get the perfect six-pack by using special nutritional supplements or weight loss medications. What is it then?
 

It's a system which utilizes evidence based and proven healthy approaches along with the regular monitoring of results. It is vital that you don't employ unprofessional recommendations and that you leave out any unhealthy habits.

 

The main attributes of a healthy lifestyle are as follows:

  • Well balanced diet which takes into account your age, gender, level of physical activity, as well as any health problems you may have, such as diebetes, high cholesterol and others. Speicial physiological conditions such as pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as other factors, should also be considered.
  •  
  • Your exercise program should also take into consideration your age, gender, health status and physiological conditions such as pregnancy. It should also reflect the frequency, intensity, duration and other aspects of your normal physical activity.
  •  
  • Sufficient and safe sun exposure is also imperative for good health. As stated in our previous blog modern research shows that appropriate sun exposure during safe periods of the day without the application of sunscreen is very important. See our previous blog for more information.

All of the factors mentioned above are important; however none of them will give you the best benefits if used in isolation. For maximum effect they must be used together. Speak to our team at Health Point Physiotherapy for more information.


For more tips on healthy lifestyle see http://www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au/ (Health Programs tab).

 

 



Thursday, November 7, 2013

Healthy and Tasty Dinner Idea


 
 
Fish with avocado salsa – Super Food Ideas – November 2011 , Page 37
Recipe by Donna Boyke, Photography by Andrew Young

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium avocado, diced
  • 1 Lebanese cucumber, seeded, diced
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 green chilli, seeded, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 (150g each) firm white fish fillets
  • 1/4 cup fresh coriander sprigs
  • Steamed rice and lime cheeks, to serve

 

Method:

Step 1: Place avocado, cucumber, lime juice and chilli in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine. Cover. Refrigerate.

Step 2: Heat oil in a large non-stick frying pan over high heat. Cook fish for 2 minutes each side or until cooked through. Serve fish with salsa, coriander sprigs and steamed rice and lime cheeks.
 
For more ideas on how to improve and maintain your health go to http://www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au/maintaining-health.html

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Sun exposure - Imprortant facts

True or false: Sun avoidance and regular application of sunscreen are necessary for good health

 
 
 
While this is a common statement that many believe to be true it needs additional clarification. It's definitely true that excessive sun exposure is risky and should be avoided. However, consider these important facts:
  • modern research indicates that sufficient sun exposure during appropriate times of the day without applying sunscreen is required for the biosynthesis of vitamin D
  • the same research shows that vitamin D is necessary for prevention of osteoporosis, diabetes and many other diseases
  • the availability of vitamin D from dietary sources is limited, therefore you are much better off getting it from the sun
So how do you sunbath appropriately to get the best results while avoiding overexposure? The answer will depend on your skin type, work and leisure activities, health, and other conditions.
 

Here are some general guidelines though which will help:

  • sunbathing for up to 15 minutes per day, away from the water, up to 11am and after 5pm is generally safe
  • make sure you spend roughly the same time sunbathing on your back and on your stomach
  • slowly build up your sunbathing time up to approximately 30 minutes in total
These are general recommendations only. As stated earlier the asnwer depends on your skin type, health and other factors. Discuss this further with our team at Health Point Physiotherapy.

 

For more information on how to achieve better health visit http://www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au/maintaining-health.html

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Mineral baths (balneotherapy)

Mineral spas are not only extremely relaxing and enjoyable. they can also play an important role in your health and wellbeing, from health maintenance to treatment and recovery.


People have travelled long distances and at great expense to enjoy the many benefits of mineral spas. Now this time tested treatment is available at Health Point Physiotherapy.

Mineral baths can be beneficial as a stand-alone remedy, but generally they should be used as part of a holistic treatment program for:

  • acute or chronic skin conditions - e.g. dermatitis, psoriasis
  • back, neck and joint pain
  • osteoarhritis and rheumatoid arthrotis
  • varicose veins and circulatory disorders like hypertension
  • women's health - e.g. pelvic inflammatory disease
  • fibromyalgia
  • gastritis, colitis and other problems associated with the gut
  • insomnia
  • combating stress and depression

What are the benefits?

  • helping to reduce pain and inflammation
  • speeding up the recovery process
  • weight loss and weight maintenance
  • health maintenance and disease prevention
  • anti-ageing

How does it work?

  • by improving blood circulation and the delivery of oxygen to your organs and tissues, thus speeding up the healing process
  • helping to rid the body of toxins
  • lifting the metabolic rate to burn energy and fat
  • improving antioxidant status to enhance anti-ageing processes
 
 


Thursday, September 26, 2013

Healthy and Yummy Dinner Idea

Did you love our brown lentil soup recipe which was published in our blog a little while ago? Here is another great dinner idea - it's healthy, quick and tasty.

 
 
 
Baked Fish Fillets - Super Food Ideas - April 2004 , Page 57
Recipe by Dixie Elliott, Photography by Mark O'Meara & Louise Lister
 
Ingredients:
  • 2 green onions
  • 1 red capsicum
  • 1 carrot
  • 4 thick white fish fillets, (see note)
  • 1/4 cup reduced-salt soy sauce
  • steamed rice or cooked noodles, to serve
Method:
    Step 1: Preheat oven to 200°C. Cut onions into 5cm lengths. Remove seeds from capsicum. Peel carrot. Finely shred all vegetables and place into a bowl. Toss until well combined.
    Step 2: Line a baking dish with baking paper. Place fish fillets into prepared baking dish. Top each fillet with shredded vegetables. Drizzle with soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
    Step 3: Place another sheet of baking paper over fish. Fold all sides of baking paper together to form a parcel. Place dish into oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until fish flakes when tested with a fork. Serve with rice or noodles.


Thursday, September 12, 2013

What is SCENAR therapy?

What Is SCENAR Therapy?


"As a full-time nurse in the Aged care facility and a mum to a toddler, I cannot afford to have a stiff and painful neck. The problems with my neck started a few years ago. I have tried heat packs, TENS machine, massages and usual physiotherapy – all of the therapies would provide only some relief and just for a short time. The worst happened after the birth of my son two years ago: I have returned from the hospital with the stiff neck, unable to move or lay down, with constant pain accelerated on movement. Exhausted and without sleep (I could only manage by sitting on the couch trying not to move) I have tried all the usual therapies for four days with no success, when my mum suggested to visit Margarita. I was crying from the pain all the way to her clinic feeling every bump on the road. I could not believe that after a 30 minute session of SCENAR therapy I felt better – the pain did not go away completely but the tension was almost gone and the pain level decreased significantly. 3 sessions later I felt like a new person.

She also treated successfully skin problems that I had. I haven’t heard about any other physiotherapists that use same technology as she. I keep recommending Margarita to anybody who needs quick and effective treatment" - Anna Sheran


About 1 year ago A Current Affair did a feature on SCENAR therapy which some of you might have seen. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQ-dGCQvXxM This unique device was developed in Russia initially for the rehabilitation of astronauts coming back from space.

 

So what is the SCENAR?

In a nutshell, the SCENAR helps your body to heal itself through locating problem areas and subsequently reactivating the body's self-regulatory mechanism which was destroyed by an accident or disease.
  • It's a small hand-held device
  • The treatment is completely pain-free and safe
  • Effects are felt after a maximum of three sessions
  • No negative side effects
  • Very few contraindications

Which conditions can SCENAR therapy help with?

The range of conditions for which SCENAR therapy can be effectively used is very broad - below are just a few examples:
  • back, neck and joint pain
  • osteoarthritis
  • irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia, gastritis, lazy gut
  • asthma, bronchitis
  • dermatitis
  • oral pathologies such as gingivitis, parodontitis

For more information go to www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au





 

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Fruit and vegies - two important keys to a healthier you

We all know that eating fruit and vegies is important for good health. A popular statement is that eating 2-3 serves of fruit and 4-5 serves of vegetables daily is all that is required for a healthy diet. Yet is it really true?



Consider the following important aspects:

1. What proportion do raw and minimally processed fruit and vegies constitute in your daily ration?
  • Once foods are cooked they lose their essential vitamins and nutrients. Trying to eat as much raw vegetables and fruits as possible is therefore the key to a healthier life.

2. Some people may react negatively to certain fruits and vegetables. If you feel bloated or otherwise unwell after eating some fruit/vegies consult your doctor and get tested for food allergies. You can then avoid those particular ones and replace them with others.
  • Fructose intolerance is common
  • If you suffer fro diabetes you need to avoid fruits such as bananas and some others. Consult with your GP on this matter.
 
For more tips on how to improve and maintain your health go to http://www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au/maintaining-health.html


Thursday, August 15, 2013

What Is Electrotherapy?



At Health Point Physiotherapy we specialize in the use of electrotherapy (electrical energy) in the treatment of our patients. It is commonly used in the treatment of pain and inflammation associated with neck pain, back pain, osteoarthritis, post surgery rehabilitation and others.

 
Here is what some of our patients have said:
 

I arrived at Health Point Physiotherapy with severe lower back pain. I was assessed and a suitable treatment program was suggested to me. This included some sessions of Electrotherapy and Ultrasound. I am now pain free and the Physiotherapists are now working on increasing my core strength with exercises that I can do at home therefore helping me to maintain a healthy body” – Gloria Berriman

 

“As a full-time nurse in the Aged care facility and a mum to a toddler, I cannot afford to have a stiff and painful neck. The problems with my neck started a few years ago. I have tried heat packs, TENS machine, massages and usual physiotherapy – all of the therapies would provide only some relieve and just for a short time. The worst happened after the birth of my son two years ago: I have returned from the hospital with the stiff neck, unable to move or lay down, with constant pain accelerated on movement. Exhausted and without sleep (I could only manage by sitting on the couch trying not to move) I have tried all the usual therapies for four days with no success, when my mum suggested to visit Margarita. Margarita was so nice to see me on her day off. I was crying from the pain all the way to her clinic feeling every bump on the road. I could not believe that after 30 minutes session with her wonderful gadgets I felt better – the pain did not go away completely but the tension was almost gone and the pain level decreased significantly. 3 sessions later I felt like a new person.

She also treated successfully skin problems that I had. I call Margarita “My Magician” because I truly believe she is the one. I haven’t heard about any other physiotherapists that use same technology as she. I keep recommending Margarita to anybody who needs quick and effective treatment” - Anna Sheran


 


What is electrotherapy, when is it used and what are the benefits?

 

·         Electrotherapy is the use of electrical energy in the treatment of various diseases and health disorders. It can also include the use of sound waves and magnetic fields.

·         It treats the cause not just the symptoms.

·         Electrotherapy can work in isolation or serve as an indispensable adjunct to other physiotherapy modalities, e.g. in combination with Clinical Pilates.

·         The benefits are: pain free; non invasive; non addictive; if medications are required, much lower concentrations are used compared to oral intake or injections.

 

 

When is Electrotherapy used in combination with Clinical Pilates?

 

In some cases Clinical Pilates is not initially recommended by our physiotherapists. This is mainly associated with significant inflammation and/or pain. Starting Clinical Pilates sessions at this time may cause pain and physical discomfort and aggravate the symptoms.

 

At the same time it is not the best tactic just to postpone Clinical Pilates until the symptoms disappear. Leaving the problem untreated could lead to the problem turning from acute to chronic. In these cases we initially use electrotherapy treatments which:

·         Help to eliminate/reduce the symptoms

·         Improve the physical condition of the patient

 

As soon as the symptoms are under control it’s possible to start Clinical Pilates. If necessary, the electrotherapy treatment can continue for a time in parallel with the Clinical Pilates sessions. Once both the physiotherapist and the patient are satisfied with the results of the treatment the electrotherapy is completely replaced with Clinical Pilates.

 

For more information go to www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au



Thursday, August 1, 2013

Do you find yourself eating more during the colder months? I think we all fall into that trap - when it's cold and miserable outside there is nothing like having some warm comfort food. You can, however, still eat healthy, helping you to stay in great shape.

Try this amazing lentil soup - it's easy to make and tastes great. You will love it!
 


Brown Lentil and Vegetable Food – Super Food Ideas - July 2006 , Page 32
Recipe by Tracy Rutherford, Photography by Louise Lister

 

Ingredients:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 carrots, peeled, diced
  • 2 zucchini, diced
  • 2 sticks celery, diced
  • 1 brown onion, finely chopped
  • 400g can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups salt-reduced vegetable stock
  • 400g can brown lentils, rinsed, drained
  • 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
  • 1 lemon, quartered
  • 4 crusty wholegrain rolls, to serve
Method:

  1. Step 1: Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add carrots, zucchini, celery and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes or until vegetables begin to soften.

  1. Step 2: Add tomatoes and stock to pan. Cover and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, partially covered, for 15 minutes or until vegetables are soft.

  1. Step 3: Add lentils to soup. Cook for 5 minutes or until heated through. Ladle soup into bowls. Sprinkle with parsley and squeeze lemon juice. Season with freshly ground black pepper. Serve with lemon wedges and bread rolls.
 
 
For more ideas on how to stay fit by doing exercises in the comfort of your own home go to: http://www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au/exercise-at-home.html
 

Thursday, July 18, 2013


Hydrotherapy is back in action at Health Point Physiotherapy!


 

Seeking something new and exciting? Hydro-bics or Hydro-Aerobics is for you!

Not just for those who are stiff with regular aches or pains. We are also coordinating a new style of class for those who enjoy being pushed aerobically in the comfort of warm water.


Here is what some of our patients have said:

 

“I was referred to Health Point Physiotherapy by a trusted friend after an accident that left my knee twice operated on to put bits and pieces of it together. I could not bend my knee or use my leg properly and was moving on crutches at the time. Margarita has assessed the knee and offered hydrotherapy sessions as a best way forward. Every week for many weeks I had an individual or small group sessions in the hydrotherapy pool followed by home exercises prepared by Margarita and tailored to my specific requirements. This was the beginning of the wonderful recovery that allowed me to build my muscles and start slowly walking without crutches, going up and down stairs without support. I have been attending Pilates for a year now and doing this helped me to build my confidence and almost forget that I had this terrible accident. I would definitely recommend Health Point Physiotherapy to any of my friends, because I know that they will be in caring hands and managed by knowledgeable and skilful therapists with guaranteed results” – Nonna Milmeister

 

 

What better way to get yourself moving after an accident/ surgery or to battle those ongoing pains. There are many benefits of hydrotherapy and they include:

·         Reducing or relieving sudden or long-lasting pain

·         Improving range of motion and flexibility

·         Dramatically increasing the elimination of waste, thus assisting detoxification

·          Loosening tense, tight muscles and encouraging relaxation

·         Increasing the metabolic rate and digestion activity

·          Hydrating the cells, improving skin and muscle tone

·         Boosting the immune system, allowing it to function more efficiently

·          Improving the function of the internal organs by stimulating their blood supply

·          Reducing required dose of certain medications.

 

 

What is special about the way Health Point Physiotherapy conducts hydrotherapy classes?

·         Our classes are limited to 4 people only, which means that we are able to focus on each person

·         Your sessions will be run by experienced Physiotherapists and Exercise Physiologists who have a sound understanding of anatomy, biomechanics (movement), physiology and pathophysiology (health problems you may be experiencing)

·         Your sessions are rebatable through your private health insurance (e.g. Medibank, BUPA etc)

 

 

The Hydrotherapy classes will be held on: Mondays and Wednesdays


Location: Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre GESAC), 200 East Boundary Road, Bentleigh East.

 

 

Find out more about the benefits of hydrotherapy on www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au

Sunday, July 7, 2013

Health Point Physiotherapy at the Vic Open Dancesport Championship

Health Point Physiotherapy had a wonderful time at the Vic Open Dancesport Championship held at the Kingston City Hall on Sunday 9 June. A real highlight was also handing out the awards to the winners at the end of the night.




Why is Clinical Pilates so important for dancers?

If you are a dancer, you will surely appreciate the importance of strength, flexibility, posture and agility. Muscle endurance, balance and coordination are equally important. Doing Clinical Pilates with us will help you to:

·         Improve your core stability and posture, helping you to recover from injuries, get back on the dance   floor sooner and prevent recurrences

·         Strengthen your upper and lower body

·         Improve your flexibility, balance, coordination and agility, helping you to perform at your absolute best

At Health Physiotherapy we have extensive experience in working with dancers and know what it takes to be one. One of our biggest goals when working with you will be to get you back on the dance floor, ensure 100% rehab and prevention of future recurrences.

We offer Clinical Pilates as well as general physiotherapy and electrotherapy. Our wide range of treatment methods allows us to find the perfect match for your problem. Find out more about us on www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au
 

A bit of trivia for you:
Did you know that the origins of Pilates date back to World War I where Joseph Pilates, the founder of the method, was placed in an enemy camp on the Isle of Man? His background in gymnastics and study of anatomy and exercise gave him the ability to design exercises for others while there. In the 1920's he moved to New York where he began working with dancers. It was through the discovery of injuries related to reduced control in highly flexible performers that he developed exercises for stability rather than gross strength.


Thursday, June 20, 2013

What Is Clinical Pilates?

 
What Is Clinical Pilates?
Did you know that the origins of Pilates date back to World War I where Joseph Pilates, the founder of the method, was placed in an enemy camp on the Isle of Man? There he helped soldiers who were confined to bed by attaching springs above their beds allowing the soldiers to strengthen their arms and legs. The method was then developed further and the main focus became on core strength.
What are core muscles?
  • They are muscles that support and stabilize our spine and joints. In the lower back, for example, these muscles act like a corset, supporting the spine. When these muscles are weak, they fail to do their job properly. In that case, any load from daily activities (e.g. lifting) will go through the spine and joints, leading to pain.
Why is Clinical Pilates at Health Point Physiotherapy so special?
  • Unlike mainstream Pilates, conducted by Pilates instructors, Health Point Physiotherapy uses Clinical Pilates. Your coaches are thus experienced physiotherapists and exercise physiologists
  • We use Real Time ultrasound to check the strength and endurance of your core muscles
  • We use specialized Pilates equipment such as reformers, trapeze tables, swissballs, therabands, weights and others
  • Your sessions are also rebatable through your private health insurance (e.g. BUPA)
 
What’s different about our approach?
We strongly believe that prevention is better than cure. Therefore, the first step is a detailed full body diagnostic assessment. We take the time to thoroughly assess you from head to toe, not just the area that is causing you problems at the moment.
What does the full body assessment involve?
  • Postural assessment
  • Assessment of the mobility of your spine and joints
  • Muscle strength testing
  • Ligament integrity assessment
  • Assessment of your heart and lung function, BMI and others
  • Over 200 parameters
 
Unlike most other centres we go that extra step further to make sure that nothing is missed
Visit our website www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au for more information

Thursday, May 30, 2013

7 Popular misconceptions about healthy lifestyle

 
Seven popular misconceptions about healthy lifestyle
 
1. Drinking enough water, getting adequate sleep and positive thinking prevent serious diseases
 
This is incorrect as many other factors can affect your health and wellbeing and deserve attention. They include:
·         diet                                                       smoking
·         lack of exercise                                                  stress
·         level of sun exposure                            alcohol                                    
 
2. Eating 2-3 serves of fruits and 4-5 serves of vegetables daily is required for maintaining good health
 
This is partly correct, but you need to consider what proportion raw and minimally processed fruits and vegetables constitute in your daily ration. This is an important parameter which is often overlooked.
3. Moderate exercise of 3-3.5 hours per week is sufficient for a healthy lifestyle
 
This recommendation can be misguiding as frequency, duration, intensity and other aspects of exercise programs are important for achieving your goals.
 
4. Diet is the best way to achieve and maintain healthy weight
Restrictive diets usually fail to reach this goal. This might be a temporary solution but as soon as you get off the diet you gain your weight back.
 
5. Sun avoidance and regular application of sunscreen are necessary for health
 
This needs additional clarification. Excessive sun exposure is risky and should definitely be avoided. However modern research indicates that sufficient sun exposure during appropriate times of the day without applying sunscreen is required for the biosynthesis of vitamin D which is mandatory for disease prevention and maintaining good health.
 
6. Eating a wide variety of food is required for good health
 
This is a very vague statement. It is highly important to ensure that your daily ration is balanced to ensure that you are getting the main nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Other factors, however, are involved, such as age, gender, level of physical activity, special physiological conditions such as pregnancy, breastfeeding and other factors.
 
7. You need to make adjustments to your life style only when it is required
This is totally wrong. You probably heard the expression that prevention is better than cure. You need to start introducing appropriate life style modifications as early as possible. This would help in preventing potential health problems. Many health disorders if left untreated could evolve into serious issues.