If you live on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, you know how important it is to recover quickly and safely from injury so you can get back to surf, walking the coastal tracks or simply enjoying family time at Mona Vale Beach. Local doctors and medical practices play a central role in recognising injuries and referring patients to physiotherapy — a partnership that leads to better outcomes, faster recovery and fewer relapses.
Why GPs refer to physiotherapy General practitioners and other medical clinicians in Mona Vale and nearby suburbs are often the first point of contact after an injury or when pain becomes persistent. GPs refer patients to physiotherapy because physiotherapists:
- Provide targeted assessment and diagnosis of musculoskeletal problems.
- Prescribe individualised exercise programmes that restore strength, mobility and function.
- Use hands-on techniques and modalities to manage pain and speed recovery.
- Educate patients on self-management and injury prevention.
Common reasons for referral Local GPs commonly refer patients for physiotherapy for conditions such as:
- Back and neck pain (acute and chronic)
- Shoulder pain and rotator cuff injuries, often from surfing or beach sports
- Knee pain, meniscal issues and post-ACL rehabilitation
- Ankle sprains and tendon injuries from running or barefoot activities
- Post-surgical rehabilitation following orthopaedic procedures
- Overuse injuries from coastal walking, running and recreational sports
- Workplace injuries and occupational rehabilitation
How coordinated care benefits patients When your GP and physiotherapist collaborate, the care is more effective and efficient. Benefits include:
- Faster, evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your needs.
- Clear communication about medication, imaging results and any red flags.
- Shared goal-setting so recovery milestones and return-to-activity plans are realistic.
- Reduced reliance on long-term pain medication through active rehabilitation.
- A better pathway for chronic conditions via structured ongoing management.
Medicare, chronic disease plans and referrals In Australia, GPs can include physiotherapy under a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan (also called an EPC plan). Under this scheme, eligible patients may receive subsidised allied health services, including physiotherapy. Local medical practices in Mona Vale can organise these plans and coordinate care with physiotherapists to ensure patients access the right number of sessions and follow-up.
Workers’ compensation and private insurance Many injuries on the Northern Beaches are work-related or sports-related. Local medical practices often initiate workers’ compensation claims or liaise with private health insurers and physiotherapy clinics to establish a return-to-work or sport plan. Physiotherapists experienced in workers’ comp and private claims can provide functional assessments and graded activity programmes to support safe return.
When diagnosed with cancer, the journey ahead can feel daunting. With the physical and emotional challenges that come with treatment, many people often wonder how they can maintain their strength and quality of life. One powerful tool that’s gaining recognition in cancer care is exercise. From maintaining muscle mass during chemotherapy to improving overall well-being, exercise has shown to provide significant benefits for cancer patients. Exercise physiology plays a key role in understanding these benefits and developing safe, effective exercise programs tailored to each individual’s needs.
Why is Exercise Important for Cancer Patients?
Cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, can be physically taxing. Patients often experience fatigue, muscle wasting, weight loss, and a decrease in strength and endurance. These effects can have a significant impact on daily activities and overall quality of life. However, research shows that exercise can help mitigate these side effects, improving both physical and emotional health.
Exercise can be defined as any planned, structured, and repetitive physical activity that improves or maintains physical fitness. For cancer patients, regular exercise helps reduce the impact of cancer-related fatigue, boosts energy levels, strengthens the immune system, and supports the maintenance of muscle mass and bone density. Exercise physiology focuses on understanding the body’s response to physical activity, and this knowledge is crucial when designing exercise programs for cancer patients.
Maintaining Muscle Mass During Chemotherapy
One of the most concerning effects of chemotherapy is muscle wasting, also known as cancer cachexia. This condition leads to a significant loss of muscle mass and strength, which can worsen fatigue and limit mobility. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, which include not only cancer cells but also healthy cells, such as those in muscles. As a result, patients often experience a loss of lean body mass, making it harder to perform everyday tasks.
Exercise, particularly resistance training, has been shown to be effective in countering muscle loss and promoting muscle retention during chemotherapy. Studies have found that engaging in strength-based exercises, such as lifting weights or using resistance bands, can stimulate muscle growth and prevent further deterioration. The key is to start at a manageable level and gradually increase intensity, ensuring that the body is not overstressed.
Exercise physiology plays an essential role in guiding cancer patients through this process. By designing a program that targets the muscles most affected by treatment, exercise physiologists ensure that patients are engaging in the right exercises in the right way to maintain muscle mass safely. Whether through resistance training, functional movement exercises, or even bodyweight exercises, staying active can help patients preserve their strength during treatment.
The Psychological Benefits of Exercise for Cancer Patients
Aside from the physical benefits, exercise also has a profound impact on mental health. A cancer diagnosis and the stress of treatment can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation. Exercise has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and help manage symptoms of depression, which are common among cancer patients.
Endorphins, the body’s natural mood-boosting chemicals, are released during exercise, promoting a sense of well-being. Furthermore, the routine and sense of accomplishment associated with exercise can foster a sense of control, which is often lost during the cancer journey. These psychological benefits, in turn, can improve adherence to treatment and enhance overall quality of life.
Reducing the Risk of Cancer Recurrence
Research also suggests that regular exercise can help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Studies have shown that patients who engage in moderate physical activity after cancer treatment may experience a lower risk of their cancer returning, particularly in breast, colon, and prostate cancer survivors. Exercise can improve immune function, regulate hormones, and reduce inflammation—all factors that play a role in cancer progression.
While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this relationship, the evidence so far is promising. For cancer survivors, staying active can be an important step in long-term health management.
Building a Safe and Effective Exercise Program
When it comes to exercise for cancer patients, safety is key. Every individual’s situation is unique, so it’s important to tailor exercise plans to the person’s specific needs, treatment stage, and fitness level. Exercise physiology plays a crucial role in this process, using scientific knowledge of how the body responds to exercise to create a personalised plan that ensures maximum benefit with minimal risk.
The following are some general guidelines for creating an exercise program for cancer patients:
- Start Slow: Begin with low-intensity exercises such as walking, light stretching, or gentle yoga. As strength improves, you can gradually increase the intensity and duration.
- Incorporate Strength Training: Resistance exercises help build muscle mass and counteract muscle loss due to chemotherapy. However, start with lighter weights or resistance bands, and progressively increase as the body adapts.
- Focus on Flexibility and Balance: Cancer treatments can impact flexibility and balance, so incorporating exercises like stretching and balance training can improve coordination and reduce the risk of falls.
- Stay Hydrated and Rested: It’s crucial to listen to your body. Stay hydrated, rest when needed, and ensure that your exercise program is balanced with recovery periods.
- Consult an Exercise Physiologist: Before beginning any exercise regimen, especially during or after cancer treatment, it’s important to consult with a qualified exercise physiologist. They can design a program tailored to your specific needs and ensure that you are exercising safely.
Conclusion
Exercise plays an essential role in managing the side effects of cancer treatment, improving overall physical and mental health, and supporting the maintenance of muscle mass during chemotherapy. Through the guidance of exercise physiology, cancer patients can enjoy a tailored program that helps them stay active and improve their quality of life. Whether you’re currently undergoing treatment or are a cancer survivor, integrating exercise into your routine can provide numerous benefits, supporting your journey towards better health and wellness.
If you or a loved one is going through cancer treatment, don’t hesitate to consult an exercise physiologist to create a plan that works for you. Your body will thank you for it. Read more HERE