Category Archives: Ligament

NDIS

NDIS

NDIS

National Disability Insurance Scheme or NDIS for short is a scheme where the Australian government funds certain services such as physiotherapy and podiatry for people with a disability. Dr7 Physiotherapy, Podiatry, and Hydrotherapy Yokine, is a provider for NDIS patients and works closely with carers to set short- and long-term goals with a tailored plan for each person. The convenience of having a hydrotherapy pool located within the practice makes it more accessible for NDIS patients who want a physiotherapist to guide and assist with hydrotherapy and physiotherapy.

 

Am I eligible?

  • Aged between 7 to 65 years old.
  • Australian citizen or Permanent resident or have a permanent or special category visa.
  • Need support from a physiotherapist or podiatrist because of a permanent and significant disability.
  • Use special equipment because of a permanent and significant disability.
  • If you need more information, please visit https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying-access-ndis/am-i-eligible

 

How do I apply?

 

Why come to Dr7 Physiotherapy, Podiatry, and Hydrotherapy?

  • Convenient to have three services located at the same practice.
  • Easy access and free parking bays.
  • Friendly, caring, and helpful staff members.
  • Highly trained and professional physiotherapists and podiatrists.
  • Located in a medical center that has various services such as GPs, pharmacy, psychologist, clinical labs, etc.

 

 

Dr7 Physiotherapy, Podiatry, and Hydrotherapy Joondanna accept all NDIS patients who are self-managed, plan managed but we DO NOT accept NDIA managed NDIS funds (Please call reception for billing information).

 

Please do not hesitate to call Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Tuart Hill and ask to see one of our physiotherapists today. Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry services Perth’s northern suburbs including Yokine, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth, and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/ (click on the “Book an appointment” button on the top right-hand side of the page) or over the phone on 9349 1777.

Safe Lifting Technique

Safe lifting techniques

Low back injuries are a common injury seen by physiotherapists, often caused by repetitive poor safe lifting techniques, but there are some simple steps you can take to keep your back protected.

 

  1. Use your legs, not your back!

Your back muscles (called extensors) are actually quite small muscles when compared to your thigh muscles or buttock muscles. When your knees are straight and you hinge from your hips and pelvis to lean forwards and pick something up your low back muscles are taking the force and pressure.  When you are standing up straight there are ~100 millimeters of mercury(mm) of pressure on your back, when you lift with bent knees there is ~350mm of pressure on your back, however, when you hinge at your hips and keep your knees straight there is an extra 100mm of pressure on your back. If this pattern is repeated continuously it can lead to injury to muscles, tendons, or even the discs or nerves of your low back.

The safest way to lift objects is to bend your knees with your hips should be pushed out behind you.

 

  1. Keep a neutral spine

It is common for people to bend their knees, push their hips out behind them, but then curve their back to reach down. Unfortunately, this is putting similar pressure on the spine as mentioned above. When picking objects off the ground or lifting in general it is important to keep the spine in a neutral position; this means that the spine is inline, the ribs or low back are not curved or arched. In this position there is even pressure on all the tissues of the spine, reducing any risk of tissue injury such as disc bulges.

 

  1. Knees in line with toes

When squatting down low for an object on the ground it is best practice to keep your heels on the ground, this allows you to activate your hamstrings, calves, and buttock muscles, which as mentioned above are part of the large muscles groups that can provide the most strength in assisting you to lift an object. Also, when you lift your heels off the ground and have all your weight on your forefeet, you increase the pressure to the inferior aspect of the knee cap and can cause inflammation of tissues inside the knee. Even with the heels on the ground, it is still safest for the knees to stay inline with the toes and not move any further forwards, again to prevent excess pressure on the tissues within the knee joint.

 

If you would like any further information or assessment of your lifting technique, please contact Dr7 physiotherapy and podiatry on 9349 1777.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Sports

Sports Therapy at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry’s Yokine therapists have extensive knowledge of biomechanics as well as prevention and treatment of injuries from hobbies and sports. The therapists at Dr7 undertake a wide range of sports and hobbies themselves in their own time which gives them  “insider knowledge” of injury prevention and management. Below is a brief summary of activities undertaken by our staff:

 

Katie Starke

Physiotherapist

Katie has been dancing Latin styles for many years now such as salsa & bachata.  Over the last 8 months, Katie has been taking Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lessons. Katie is also an advocate of yoga and pilates which she does herself on a regular basis. Katie also enjoys running, swimming, and gym-based exercise. Several years ago, Katie was involved in participating in short-distance triathlons.

Ryan Weir

Practice owner

Ryan plays social basketball and trains for long-distance runs and has completed several marathons. Ryan also undertakes gym-based exercise on a weekly basis.

Luke Richards

Physiotherapist

Luke plays AFL football, runs, and attends the gym for strength-based training regularly. Luke has completed the Busselton jetty swim on several occasions.

Tess Moynihan                             

Physiotherapist

Tess previously competed intensively in outdoor Hockey for many years and trained heavily in Boxing. Currently, Tess is focused on equipment and functional-based strength training, such as rings, and beach swims.

Trevor

Physiotherapist

Trevor has worked for Circus-Soliel on several occasions, providing treatment to their high-level performers. Trevor was also part-owner in an aerial yoga company for many years. Currently, Trevor is focused on jiu-jitsu training, swimming, and trail run.

David Chia

Podiatrist

Dave plays social basketball weekly with Ryan Weir and trains regularly at his local gym. David is also a long-distance bike riding enthusiast.

Chris Gilomen

Podiatrist

Chris plays social soccer in a team in the Hills and also plays social basketball with David Chia on a weekly basis.

 

All our staff at Dr7physiotherapy and podiatry Joondanna are highly experienced in treating sports injuries and providing prevention methods such as dynamic warm-up stretches, RICE treatment protocols, sports strapping, and sports-specific biomechanics education.

From the wide range of exercises undertaken by our staff at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Tuart Hill, you may even be able to find a practitioner with a common interest!

Please contact our clinic on 9349 1777 to arrange an appointment today or book online at the top right hand of the homepage.

 

Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

Motor Vehicle Accident

Have you sustained an injury as a result of a motor vehicle accident(MVA)?
Do you want relief from your symptoms?

The pain and suffering resulting from a motor vehicle accident can become frustrating and inconvenient. Our Physiotherapists at Dr7 are registered health professionals with a wealth of knowledge to help you become pain-free and functional.

We welcome all patients referred for a motor vehicle-related injury.

Who is ICWA?

ICWA, known as the Insurance Commission of Western Australia is a corporation owned by the Western Australian government. They provide funding to those who are injured as a result of a motor vehicle accident. Vehicle registration fees provide ‘compulsory third party insurance’. This allows ICWA to provide compensation for injured parties when they involve in a motor vehicle accident.

Who is entitled to Motor Vehicle Accident claim?

Any of the following individuals who have sustained an injury or medical condition as a consequence of a motor vehicle accident can apply for an MVA compensation claim:
• Driver
• Passenger
• Pedestrian
• Cyclist

Eligibility for funding, reimbursement, or compensation is decided by ICWA. ICWA will investigate your claim and establish who was at fault. Liability must be accepted by ICWA for your claim to be accepted.

How do I make a Motor Vehicle Accident claim?

If you have sustained an injury or illness directly related to a motor vehicle injury follow these basic recommendations:
1. Seek medical attention
2. Report the crash to the police via the Online Crash Reporting Facility (https://www.crashreport.com.au/ocrf/) – this will provide you with a crash reference number
3. Call the insurance commission on (09) 9264 333 to investigate whether they require any additional information or forms to be lodged
4. Consult with your GP and request a referral to your allied health professional (e.g. Physiotherapist)

If you are considering a Motor Vehicle Accident claim and require more advice we recommend seeking legal advice.

How do I get referred to Physiotherapy?

When attending Physiotherapy services under a Motor Vehicle Accident claim it is important that you present with the correct documentation.

Before presenting to Physiotherapy you will need the following information:
• A Doctors referral stating the following:
o Name of practice and practitioner you intend on seeing
o Date of accident
o Injured areas to be managed
o Modalities of treatment (e.g. Physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, exercise rehabilitation)
• Claim number (if provided)
• Confirmation that you were not at fault by ICWA

If liability has not yet been determined we may kindly request that you pay the fees upfront and seek reimbursement once your claim has been accepted.

If you are unsure what information you need to provide, we recommended speaking to our friendly receptionist on (08) 9349 1777 for more information today!

Role of Physiotherapy

The Physiotherapists at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry have over 25 years of experience managing motor vehicle accident injuries and claims. We make it our priority to provide world-class treatment whilst proving a safe and emphatic environment for your rehabilitation.

We are able to provide the following modalities of treatment/management:
• Hands-on Physiotherapy treatment
• Supervised hydrotherapy
• Supervised exercise rehabilitation in a gym setting
• Education and advice
• Exercise programs

Our goals as Physiotherapists:
• Conduct thorough assessments to identify injuries and functional impairments
• Provide Physiotherapy treatment services to help the patient achieve their goals, reduce symptoms and elevate function
• Monitor progress of rehabilitation
• Liaise and collaborate with the patient’s health team to achieve optimal results
• Advocate for the injured patient within the management process

What can you claim?

• Ambulance services
• Hospital services
• Nursing services
• Medical services
• Scanning
• Medication
• Equipment & medical aids
• Rehabilitation & therapy services
• Household support services
• Travel
• Compensation for inability to work
• Pain and suffering

MVA Dr7 Physio

Who pays for Physiotherapy intervention and treatment?

ICWA will cover your medical expenses including Physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and exercise rehabilitation if:
• Liability is accepted
• Treatment is necessary & reasonable
• Your injuries are directly related to the motor vehicle accident

In order to provide funding for your medical expenses ICWA requires medical evidence from your health professional team. In some circumstances ICWA may request prior approval for medical needs.

It is your responsibility to ensure you are covered. If you are unsure, we encourage you to speak to your ICWA case manager or seek legal advice.

MVA Contract

When will my claim be finalised?

Your claim can be finalised once ICWA receives a medical report confirming your recovery or stabilisation from a medical condition or injury. The time frame for this varies depending on the extent of your illness/injury/s.

Do I need a lawyer?

In most cases a lawyer is not necessary. You do however have the right to appoint a lawyer to assist you with your claim. We are happy to make a recommendation for legal representation if you require it.
We recommend that you refer to the ICWA information booklet for further information or clarification
https://www.icwa.wa.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/6020/A-GUIDE-FOR-PEOPLE-INJURED-IN-A-MOTOR-VEHICLE-CRASH-WEB-FINAL-30317.pdf

What costs are involved?

If your claim has been approved and liability has been accepted there are no gap-fees or out-of-pocket expenses for the patient directly. This needs to be confirmed with ICWA and that they have accepted liability for your claim.

Working From Home

Working from Home

 

 

With a shift in the way we function in our current world, Australia has seen a rapid rise in the number of people working from home. When setting up your new work environment there are some crucial elements that need to be considered to avoid injuries and allow for optimal productivity.

Here at Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry Yokine we are here to help!
Read on to find out more about setting up your workstation in your humble abode.

 

Elements to Consider in your Work Space

 

Your Environment

When choosing a space to set up your workstation, ensure the area has enough lighting. A well-lit area is essential when reading documents and typing on your keyboard. Be careful that your computer isn’t positioned to reflect any glare. You can avoid this by facing your computer 90° away from the windows. Lastly consider trip hazards. Be sure to clear any obstacles around your legs that may cause you to adopt awkward positions or be at risk for a fall.

Your Equipment

Consider 3 zones when setting up your workstation.
1. Primary zone: Position items that are most frequently use comfortably within your reach with your elbows relaced in sitting position. [e.g. keyboard, mouse, notebook, pen]
2. Secondary zone: Position items that are occasionally used within an extended arms reach and your back comfortably against the back of your chair. [e.g. telephone, documents, coffee cup]
3. Non-working zone: Position items that won’t be moved. [e.g. monitor, pot plants, personal belongings]

The picture below gives you a visual representation of your workstations zones!

Tm blog 2

Yourself

Positioning yourself in relation to your workstation is essential. Minor changes can make a big difference. Follow these suggestions to ensure your body posture is correct:

Head/neck: Your eye gaze should be at the top 1/3 or top 3 cm of your monitor. Keep your chin tucked in and avoid a forward poking chin.
Torso/trunk: Ensure your back is against the support of the chair. There should be no gap between your back and your chair. A lumbar support or a small rolled-up towel can be effective in proving support to your lower back.
Hips: Make sure your bottom is seated at the very back of the chair. Adopt an angle of 90-120° at you hips with a slight recline of your computer chair.
Knees/feet: When seated, your knees should be shoulder-width apart and be at a 90-120° angle with your feet flat on the floor. If you feet are unable to reach the floor, prop them up with a foot support or some old textbooks. Keep your
Elbows: Elbows should rest at a 90-120° angle in line with your desk. When using your equipment be sure that your elbows refrain from moving more than 10-15cm away from your torso. Pull your chair close to your desk to avoid poor postures.
Wrists: Avoid planting your wrist on the surface of your desk as this puts pressure on your tendons and nerves. Avoid excessive wrist extension when using your mouse and keyboard and ensure your wrists are place higher than your keyboard. Wrist pads are not recommended however if you are using one make sure it is rested against your keyboard and is cushioning your palms.

Let’s break down these suggestions:
• Eye gaze top 1/3 of monitor
• Chin tucked in to neck
• Back and bottom against back of chair
• Opt to use a lumbar support or small rolled-up towel
• Adopt a 90-120° bend at you hips
• Knees shoulder-width apart
• Adopt 90-120° bend at your knees
• Feet flat on floor or support
• Elbows should rest at 90-120°
• Tuck chair close into desk
• Refrain from moving elbow 10-15cm away from the torso
• Avoid excessive wrist extension
• Do not rest your wrist against desk surface or wrist pad

Check out the picture below for optimal positioning!

Hot Tip
At Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry Joondanna we recommend a standing break or stretch every 20-30 minutes for 2-3 minutes. This will help promote circulation, avoid poor postures, and improve productivity!

If you are noticing any aches and pains reflected by your working situation get in contact with one of our experienced Physiotherapists today on (08) 9349 1777.

Happy working from home everyone!

Congratulations to Nera Jareb

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry would like to congratulate Nera Jareb, one of our long term patients, for running 2nd in the Melbourne Marathon in October 2019. Nera has been attending Dr7 Physiotherapy for a decade now and has always been such a determined and talented sportsperson. We feel privileged to be able to help her on her journey. She finished the Melbourne Marathon in a time of 2:36:41 and beating her previous PB of 2:37:30 in the Gold Coast Marathon in July 2019.

 

 

 

ACL

The ACL is an extremely important ligament that stabilises the knee joint during multidirectional movements such as pivoting, jumping/landing and direction changes. Injury to this ligament can be a devastating and expensive injury and can potentially be a career-ending injury for athletes. In high-level sport such as AFL, players will often undergo surgery and a 1-2 year rehabilitation before returning to play. But in lower levels of sport many people never return to play. Another major concern is that once you injure your ACL you have a higher chance of having another ACL injury to either knee.  There are many reasons for this, but put simply it often comes down to an inadequate rehabilitation/exercise program. This means that muscles of the leg and hip are often underprepared to cope with the demands of sport after a long period without playing.

Management:

Traditionally, ACL tears are repaired using surgery and replacing the ligament with a graft usually taken from either the hamstring or patella tendon. Although more recently there has been some debate as to whether every ACL tear requires surgery.

In any case, rehabilitation in the form of exercise is essential to return to normal activities and to prevent future injury. This exercise program must involve individualised, gradual and progressive strengthening exercises as well as a focus on balance and stability. Unfortunately many people either aren’t prescribed an appropriate exercise program or they fail to follow it through until the end.

At Dr7 Physiotherapy Yokine our physiotherapists can provide a structured exercise program tailored to your stage of recovery and your level of conditioning. Our therapists are also trained to progress your rehabilitation to a point where you are ready to return to play.

Markus Squat

In the early phase after your injury you will be given basic strengthening and balancing exercises. This will focus on muscles in your thigh, calf and hip. If you are in a brace or using crutches our therapists can also provide guidance as to how and when to wean off these supports.

Markus Single Leg Balance

During the middle phase of rehabilitation you will be provided with progressively harder strengthening exercises for your legs and if you have access to a gym our therapists can provide advice on weight training. During this phase there will also be a focus on balance and stability exercises and as you improve your therapist will start to challenge your single leg balance and stability. Towards the middle-to-late stage of rehabilitation you will also be provided with guidance and advice to return to activities such as running.

Markus Balancing Squat

Once you are ready to progress towards end-stage rehabilitation exercises our physiotherapists will start to introduce sports-specific exercises to train your body to cope with the demands of your specific sport/activity. At this point the exercises you receive will be highly dependent on you and on what activities you are aiming to return to. Your physiotherapist can test you for return to sport and outline specific criteria for you to return to sport. Typically at this point you will start to return to training and sport-specific tasks like kicking, change of directions and contact sports.

There are many biomechanical and modifiable factors that increase your risk of having an ACL tear. At Dr7 Physiotherapy Tuart Hill our physiotherapists can help you reduce the risk of an injury by providing advice/exercises on how to change these factors.

If you have had an ACL injury or want to speak to a physiotherapist about how to reduce your risk of suffering an ACL injury call us on (08) 9349 1777 to book an appointment with one of our friendly physiotherapists today.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to the suburbs of Yokine, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website or over the phone.

$40 Initial Consults for Physio and Pod

Claim Instructions: (Only valid for booking on https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)

  1. Click the “Book an appointment” button at the top right of Dr7 Physiotherapy webpage (https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)
  2. Select Physiotherapy or Podiatry
  3. Select appointment time and specific practitioner if you wish
  4. In the reason for visit box, type “$40”
  5. Inform reception upon arrival that you are claiming ‘$40’ website special.
    *Terms and conditions apply. Valid only for new clients to Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry clinic or past clients who have not visited greater than 3 yrs ago.

 

 

 

 

*Terms & Conditions
This offer is only valid for:
1. A limited time – from 9th April 2019 until 30th June 2019.
2. Online bookings ONLY through our web page (www.dr7physioandpod.com.au)
3. New private clients to the Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Business ( or clients who have not visited for more than 3 yrs).
4. Initial consultation and treatment only but does not include stock, equipment or any take home consumables. Eg, if your practitioner recommends braces, orthotics, creams etc, then these are charged separately upon prior discussion and approval from you.

You must inform reception upon arrival for your appointment of the “$40” special offer.

Elbow Pain

Elbow Pain

Why do I have elbow pain?

The most common cause of elbow pain is due to repetitive use of your forearm muscles, it is called Tennis Elbow or Epicondylitis. Other causes of elbow pain can be ligament sprains, bone bruising or inflammation of a bursa (a sack of fluid) within the elbow joint. The cause of your elbow pain can be determined and effectively treated by your Dr7 Physiotherapist Yokine.

 

What is a Tennis Elbow?

There are muscles in your forearm that start at your elbow and attach to your wrist and fingers. When we use these muscles repetitively at work or during sport and exercise these muscles become tight and lose their elasticity. When this happens the muscles become inflamed at the bone of your elbow, where it originates from. If this condition is left for too long it will get progressively worse and can lead to sharp pains, nerve symptoms and a loss of strength in the hand.

 Anatomy of the elbow

Is it common?

Tennis Elbow is very common occurring within 1-3% of the population at all stages of life however it is most common from 30-50 years of age.

 

What causes Tennis Elbow?

Common activities that can result in Tennis Elbow now days are the use of mobile phones, ipads and computers. Due to postural positions often held while using these devices as well as the repetitive movements required. Other activities can be related to repetitive movements during sport such as gripping and swinging the racket in tennis.

 

How long does it take to get better?

The duration of your symptoms can vary and depend on several factors such as length of pain before physiotherapy treatment, if work or sport postural issues can be modified, the number of triggers present and your adherence to your exercise program. If your symptoms are mild-moderate you could have full resolution in 6-8 weeks however if your symptoms are severe it could take several months. After your initial assessment at Dr7 Physiotherapy Tuart Hill, your physiotherapist will be better able to give you a more accurate estimate.

 

How can Dr7 Physiotherapy help?

Your Dr7 Physiotherapist in Yokine will be able to provide you with some pain relieving techniques that will also regain the length and elasticity of the muscles in your forearm/s. We can teach you how to reduce your pain throughout the day but most importantly how to modify work postures and movement to resolve your pain and prevent reoccurrence. All our physiotherapists are trained in treatment techniques such a dry-needling (acupuncture), sports taping, lazer therapy and manual soft-tissue techniques. Call 9349 1777 for further information.

If you think you are experiencing elbow pain book an appointment at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to the suburbs of Yokine, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website or over the phone.

Senior Podiatrist at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

Podiatrist Angelo

WHAT DOES OUR PODIATRIST ANGELO TREAT

 

Having been a podiatrist for approximately 4 years, our Senior Podiatrist Angelo has been exposed to all aspects of podiatry at Dr7 Podiatry Yokine. From diabetic risk assessments and foot care, to paediatric sports injuries and disability rehabilitation, he has seen and treated patients from all ages and backgrounds. He has also worked alongside several soccer teams in Perth to provide acute management of lower leg injuries.

Over the past years, Angelo has developed a strong interest in pain and injury rehabilitation, with a particular focus on ankle injuries and rehabilitation. Having injured and fractured his ankle twice in 18 months, he knows from personal experience just how important it is to rehabilitate and treat the ankle with care to prevent long-term complications and risk re-injury. Angelo uses a variety of mobilisation, needling, massage and strapping techniques, along with isolated exercise and strength/conditioning programs to guide you through your rehabilitation and ensure you return to activities in peak condition and with full confidence in your body.

Ankle Pain

He also retains a special interest in paediatric podiatry. Having completed several courses and attended several paediatric-specific conferences over the years, Angelo is fully competent to diagnose, treat and provide long-term advice for kids ranging from 1 years of age through to adolescent years at Dr7 Podiatry Joondanna. He predominately treats ‘growing pains’ such as Severs Disease, Osgood-Schlatters and Freiburg’s Disease, and also works with a lot of state and district football, cricket, netball and soccer players for ankle, calf and foot injuries. Angelo’s main aim is to keep you playing without having to cease your activity levels. Injury management generally covers footwear changes and modifications, massage and release and providing strength and conditioning training for young athletes.

Other conditions Angelo is competent to assess and treat include but are not limited to:

  • Bunions
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis pain
  • Morton’s Neuroma and bursitis
  • Achilles tendinopathies
  • Peroneal tendinopathies
  • Patello-femoral pain
  • Metatarsal stress fractures

If suffering from acute/chronic injuries or pain, book in for an extensive biomechanical analysis and treatment with Angelo at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry in Yokine.

Happy feet
Happy feet

 

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to the suburbs of Yokine, Tuart Hill, Joondanna, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website or over the phone on 9349 1777.