BULK BILLING at Physio Flex Sports and Health Centre Gold Coast

Physiotherapists at PhysioFlex can bulk bill 20-30 minute consults with their patients if the client has a GP or doctors referral under the Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) medical rehabilitation program.

How it works:
A client presents to their local general practitioner complaining of 6 months or longer chronic musculoskeletal pain. This can be any part of the body, neck, knee, ankle, back etc. At the doctors discretion, they can then write a referral to any allied health professional for a total of 5 allied health visits per calendar year. These can all be for Physiotherapy, or a mix of allied health professions and for example have 2 podiatry and 3 Physiotherapy sessions or 4 for a dietician and 1 for exercise physiologist.

The cost:
It costs the client nothing to see the Physiotherapist at PhysioFlex. The client just requires the referral from the doctor (the EPC letter).

Availability:
PhysioFlex currently has 3 Physiotherapists. Many times are available every day in the morning and night and bookings can be made the day before but the more time prior to the appointment the better.

Over the sessions the Physiotherapists will ask a few questions and then help the client to develop a management program for themselves at home but also provide hands on physical treatment to initially help with those irritable symptoms. Once these symptoms have been made more tolerable a plan will be left with the client to help them at home and to manage their condition.

If you have any further questions or concerns please call the team at PhysioFlex on 55911816. We look forward to meeting you.

PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre Gold Coast

GOLD COAST BULLETIN FUN RUN PROVES A GREAT SUCCESS!!

GOLD COAST BULLETIN FUN RUN PROVES A GREAT SUCCESS!!

Thousands of athletes turned up for last weekends Gold Coast Bulletin Fun Run which covered the half marathon distance, 10km and 5km! Our very own Physiotherapist Ben Mack competed and completed the half marathon in 1.29.28! 

Photo Courtesy of Gold Coast Bulletin

What a beautiful Autumn morning it was for this years leading warm up race to the big one in July The Gold Coast Marathon.  Leading the 10km was elite runner and our very own Michael Shelley, winning with a time of 29minutes over a relatively hilly course and beating 2nd place by 4 minutes. This is great preperation for the marathon in Rio this August. He awaits selection which will be shortly announced post the London marathon this weekend. We are only 10 weeks away from the Gold Coast Marathon this weekend so ensure the mileage is increasing but obviously not too quickly as you might end up with an overuse injury. We wish you all your best in preperation!

Southport & Gold Coast Podiatry Joins the Physiotherapy Team at PhysioFlex Sports & Health Centre!!

Southport Podiatrist  Aleks Baraksopulo (BHlthSc (Podiatry), BSc, (Biomedical)) joins the team at PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre! Aleks is a member 

Aleks is a member of the Australasian Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine, Member of Sports Medicine Australia, Member of the Australian Podiatry Association, and a Clinical Supervisor Podiatry Southern Cross University, Gold Coast. Aleks Baruksopulo is a Gold Coast Podiatrist who graduated with his Podiatry degree in 2007 and his Biomedical Science Degree in 2001.  His main interest and background is in the prevention, treatment and management of sports and musculoskeletal injuries of the feet and lower limb.  He has gained his experience working within Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine clinics and a Sports shoe store his whole career, working as part of a team to treat athletes and sporting teams of all ages and levels. His specialties within Podiatry practice include injury management within a sports medicine team environment, management of athlete activities during injury period, treatment and management of injuries of the junior athlete, exercise prescription, foot strength exercises, return to running programs, dry needling, biomechanical assessments, running and walking video gait analysis, sports foot orthotic therapy, foot orthoses for casual shoes, footwear assessments, running & sports shoe referrals, diabetic foot assessments & care and treatment of conditions of the toe nails and skin. Please contact PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre in Southport to book an appointment with Aleks on any Monday or Friday afternoon! 55911816.

Running on the Gold Coast

I have lived on the Gold Coast for 30 years and have run over every terrain, over every hill, and across every course within it. Running was a hobby, then a challenge, then a competition, then a goal, then a release, then it was a horror and then it finally became a hobby again.  It takes you away on a journey every time you set out on foot. It is safe to say that running was the main reason I started my Physiotherapy profession.  Whatever reason you may run, we always need a great place to do it. I am often asked by patients what the best places to run are and after much deliberation and thought these are my top 5 places on the Gold Coast:

1. Coombabah Lakeland reserve.

This place is fantastic under foot with soft surfaces and slow winding bends and only one very small hill. It is great for the beginner and has a large loop of ~4-6 km with different add on loops if required. 

I personally love the feeling of being secluded away from any roads or hustle and bustle. The run takes you under a large canopy of trees and surrounds you with your favourite animals including hundreds of kangaroos. It is definitely my favourite.

It's even a great place for a date, if they're from overseas ! 

2. Nerang Conservation Bushland

This course is not for the feint hearted. It is a lot tougher and I would expect each runner to have completed 4-6 weeks training before tackling this one (~60km weeks).

It is however a very close second on my list and takes you over some of the most toughest hills on the Gold Coast but at the same time spoils you with breathtaking views. I can spend 2 hours out here just running at a slow tempo but be prepared for the heart rate to fluctuate. The terrain is uneasy and can be a little unpredictable but it keeps you alert. I would expect each runner to have very supportive footwear and start slowly and build up a healthy duration with one run per week. 

3. Fleays wildlife park

This run includes burleigh heads and  takes you over some moderate hills but a firmer surface. As the name suggests you will run into some fantastic wildlife which hands down makes this an exhilarating experience. The views are second to none.

A faster course due to the firmer surface, I would normally use this location for a faster Fartlek type run or some hill repetitions up the burleigh hill. 

4. Main beach to the Spit

I have lived in main beach for the past 2 years and have started to know this course very well. It has epic views over the ocean plus towards the Broadwater an hinterland. It is also a great course for the beginner as is undulating but an out and back course so can choose your distance. It can be a little treacherous under foot with rocks, solid dirt and then sand but again keeps the runner focused and alert. I would recommend beginners to avoid the sand. 

5. Musgrave Hill Park

With so many possibilities to try and fit into the top 5 this was a tough choice. But having lived on the back of this park for most of my life, it wins hands down. 

It may be an odd choice for some with only a small 2km loop but this trail is exceptional for the kiddies and Fartlek type sessions. 

The track is predominantly grass with a bit of gravel so is very good under foot, preventing overload and use injuries. It also escapes from roads for half of the loop giving a sense of seclusion. A great place but not sure about this eye sore.

Well there you have it! My top 5 locations to run on the Gold Coast. From a physiotherapists point of view. I hope this may be helpful, whatever level of running  you are at. Remember from previous posts to start slow, stretch and have supportive footwear. Running is an escape and brings about euphoric feelings.  Enjoy the journey! 

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask me. Keep an eye out for new running groups starting with me over summer! Most of which will start from the clinic at PhysioFlex sports and health centre!

Ben Mack

55911816 

www.physioflex.com.au

PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre

Gold Coast 

PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre: Calf Pain and Cramp- Running on the Gold Coast

PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre: Calf Pain and Cramp- Running on the Gold Coast

Calf Pain and Cramp- Running on the Gold Coast

 

 

 

Calf Pain and Cramp

 

How to control cramp at night and how to prevent pain when starting a running program.

 

Running has become a very popular exercise on the beautiful shores of the Gold Coast. But far too often we experience many new beginners to the sport coming to PhysioFlex with calf, and shin pain.

 

Here are some simple tips for when you start your running program:

 

1. Always start off with short walk and run periods.

2. Ensure small increments in exercise

3. Keep to a firmer surface and avoid the softer sands.

4. Have very supportive footware. If unsure, visit us at Physioflex on the Gold coast.

5. Stretch before bed. This will also avoid cramping throughout the night.

6. Trigger point release each calf (gastrocnemius and soleus muscles) predominantly after exercise. This can be done with a foam roller or a small trigger point ball available at Physioflex

 

 

 

 

This should keep each of you in great shape! If you have any queries or questions please do not hesitate to call us on 55911816!

Physio for Gold Coast Children PhysioFlex Southport

PhysioFlex Southport targets Physiotherapy for Gold Coast Children. 

Physiotherapy will often be recommended by doctors to improve and regain strength and movement for children, after they have suffered from a sports injury, disease, illness or even disability. 

Physiotherapists are able to relieve pain after injuries occur and quickly resume children back to their daily activities and also educate kids on how to prevent future injury and propose exercises to improve strength and motion. Education is very important for children to learn how to protect their muscles from reoccurring injuries, especially children who play regular sports.

Physiotherapy for children can improve symptoms such as;

·         Sports injuries

·         Heart conditions

·         Head injury

·         Cerebral Palsy and other birth disorders

·         Muscle disease

·         Developmental delays

·         Limb deficiencies

·         Disability

·         Cystic Fibrosis

·         Cardiorespiratory conditions

It is essential in order for children to progress in their physiotherapy, that they remain positive and motivated, so here at PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre in Southport we ensure our sessions are always fun and interesting so each child can enjoy their treatment while simultaneously being educated in muscle movement.

PhysioFlex is a Medibank preferred provider but all health cards are accepted and can be claimed after treatment within the practice for your convenience. 

LATEST NEWS: PhysioFlex Physiotherapy Southport joins with Gold Coast GP Super Clinic

PhysioFlex is excited for the news for a brand new GP clinic located in Oxenford opening on the 4th November 2013

Qualified Physiotherapists Ben Mack and Morgan Pratt will begin treating patients at this brand new facility in the month of November. PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre will be welcoming a new team of experienced health professionals including a Podiatrist, Dietician and Exercise Physiologist to offer the best possible health care for our valued patients at this convenient location. 

For more information on booking your next appointment at the 

Gold Coast GP Super Clinic please phone 55 91 18 16 

2 Leo Graham Way, OXENFORD
07 55 73 11 22

"Frequently Asked Questions" for pain prevention and injury management

PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre to the rescue!

Q. How can physiotherapy help me?

Physiotherapists are qualified professionals who will thoroughly analyse and assist in individual cases of pain prescription. Physiotherapy will speed the healing process so patients can return to their routines in sports, fitness and everyday activities.  Physiotherapy can also provide the correct treatment for each condition and prescribe, outline and educate the patient in the appropriate maintenance and prevention for the future. Physiotherapy provides one on one treatment sessions to help progress and achieve patients health and fitness goals.  

Q. How long after an injury should I consult my physiotherapist?

This will depend on how severe the injury is or was and how quickly the patient wishes to be back on their feet. Seeing a Physio in the early stages of injury can dramatically help improve your prognosis, reduce swelling and receive appropriate exercises/ management.

Q. How long after an injury should ice be applied?

Ice is most beneficial within the within the first 24 hours, especially if there is noticeable swelling and redness in the area. Ice will aid by constricting the flow of fluid to the injured area thus relieving it of a biochemical irritation.  To do this, just apply an ice compact or crushed ice in a towel for approximately 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the first few hours. This can be repeated over several days as required.

Q. When should heat be applied?

After applying ice compacts for the first 24 hours to reduce the inflammation of the injury, heat can then be applied to assist in speeding up the healing process. Heat is most commonly used during rehabilitation of an injury and will ease stiff and tight muscles. To achieve this place a heat pack comfortably on the area of pain up to 5 or 6 times a day for 20- 30 minutes at a time. 

For further information contact our professional staff on 55 91 18 16

Want to know the difference between a Physiotherapist and Chiropractor? PhysioFlex can help

The differences between a Physiotherapist and a Chiropractor?

Physiotherapy and Chiropractic treatments are significantly different. All individuals are different and therefore require varied treatment for each case. Some people prefer to use chiropractic methods where as others prefer Physio, but both have their health benefits.

Physiotherapists are highly focused on joints and muscles and how to better manage these to work together; they are often referred to as ‘Movement Experts’. Physiotherapists are advanced in their knowledge on how the human body moves, building and maintaining strength and rehabilitation from injury or pain. Methods include muscle manipulation, massage and acupuncture, hydrotherapy, reformer Pilates and also individualised exercise prescription to relieve and prevent pain. Significantly. Physiotherapists base most of their treatment plans on proven evidence based research. They use a variety of literature reviews and studies to channel their diagnostic and treatment techniques.

Chiropractors are focused on the structure of the body and disorders of the musculoskeletal system and how it interacts to restore itself from injury. They are commonly known for treating complaints such as back pain, neck pain and headaches and mainly focus on realignment of the spine.

So both Physiotherapy and Chiropractic treatments vary quite a lot. Both methods can be used together but we strongly recommend that if both practitioners are being utilised that you communicate this to receive the best possible results when receiving your treatments.

For further information on Physiotherapy treatments and pain prevention please contact Physio Flex Sports and Health Centre on 55 91 18 16 or online at www.physioflex.com.au. 

Great Package Prices available at PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre on the Gold Coast

This month PhysioFlex has introduced brand new "Discounted Package Prices" for all Physiotherapy sessions with our experienced Physiotherapists Ben Mack and Morgan Pratt. 

During the patients initial consultation, the Physiotherapists may recommend in certain cases, a number of treatments for successful rehabilitation and improvement. In this instance, PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre would like to offer patients the opportunity for great savings on their multiple physio sessions. 

Package Prices are as follows; 

For 3+ Physiotherapy sessions                  $62.00 per session  (normally $67.00)

For 5+ Physiotherapy sessions                  $60.00 per session   

For 8+ Physiotherapy sessions                  $55.00 per session      

This can equal a saving of more than $10.00per session

*Initial Consultation prices will remain the same 

*Treatments will need to be pre purchased altogether at the beginning of treatments and appointments pre booked at time of payment 

*Health Fund Rebates will still apply on all sessions, however will need to be manually claimed by the patient. 

To take advantage of this exclusive offer from PhysioFlex and save on all your Physio needs please contact our reception on 

5591 18 16 

PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre joins 92.5 Gold FM

PhysioFlex has teamed up with 92.5 Gold FM to promote our Physiotherpy services and specialised treatments. 

Please listen out to Richard, Bridge and Spida on the Breakfast Show on 92.5 Gold FM to hear about our exclusive offers. If you have been struggling with aches, pains or niggles.... don't let your age dissuade you from fixing these problems and living a happy, healthy, pain free life today. 

To celebrate our brand new radio ad we are offering all new patients a FREE INITIAL ASSESSMENT with one of our experienced Physiotherapists and would love to hear your feedback on the ad! 

PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre would like to thank all of our valued patients for your support to our business. 

http://www.goldfm.com.au/

"Football Season Is Back" at PhysioFlex Sport and Health Centre

Kicking off this weekend, Physiotherapists Ben Mack and Morgan Pratt from PhysioFlex will provide coverage for all taping, injury and physio needs for leading Rugby Union clubs on the Gold Coast including Griffith Uni Colleges Knights, Surfers Paradise Dolphins and the Southport Eagles.

This weekend the Eagles go head to head with the Helensvale Hogs at Helensvale football field. Saturday, the Dolphins will play Tweed and the Knights play Palm Beach down at the Palmy football club. The team at PhysioFlex and the Eagles would love your support, so head down tonight for your Friday night footy fix and enjoy the game. 

PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre supporting

Positive Outcomes of Regular Activity and Exercise

Research studies show that regular physical activity and exercise are directly linked to positive health outcomes in adults and elders. 

PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre professionals, advise their patients of the importance of regular aerobic movement both intentional and accidental, for a minimum of 30 minutes per day to maximise physical health benefits and improve movement functions. 

Moderate regular exercise and activity each day can greatly reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic illness and will improve your endurance, flexibility and strength.

Principal Physiotherapist Ben Mack, has given his 5 tips to patients to improve their physical health:

1. Boost your Cardiovascular activity. Studies show people who stay in shape and keep active will tend to live longer. Start by adding a 5 or 10 minute continuous walk, cycle or swim to your daily routine (swimming is a great activity to improve endurance as its not as strenuous as other forms of exercise).
2.  Reduce one fatty item from your regular daily diet and reduce or if possible demolish soft drink, as this can contain up to 6 teaspoons of sugar. 
3. Drink at least 8 glasses of water (constantly carrying a full water bottle will help remind you to keep hydrated). 
4. Start your exercise with small wall squats with 20 slow repetitions per day. 
5. If any pain or aches develop, immediately consult your Physio or specialist to rectify the problem and resume you to your exercise regime. 

Neck Pain? PhysioFlex wants to help improve your symptoms

One of the most common conditions treated at PhysioFlex on the Gold Coast is Neck Pain! 

Senior Physiotherapists, Ben Mack and Morgan Pratt, are both extremely experienced in this particular area of pain and use a range of manipulation techniques and services including manual therapy, mobilisation,  massage and acupuncture to quickly relieve pain and restore natural movement to the neck.  

Most recently, PhysioFlex found a study reporting that neck pain is experienced by more than two-thirds of the population in Australia and is the most common condition patients seek health assistance for. Those who develop neck pain, typically experience pain persistence or future reoccurrence if not treated promptly and correctly.

It is suggested that immediate treatment and constant physiotherapy sessions for 2-4 weeks, depending on each individual patient, focusing on velocity thrust manipulation or mobilisation, will have a vast improvement on the condition and help to reduce the risk of future neck pain. 

If you are experiencing this type of pain or discomfort, we strongly advice you to seek assistance from your physiotherapist to reduce the symptoms immediately and assist you with the information and assurance for a comfortable and full recovery.

Introducing Hydrotherapy at PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre on the Gold Coast

Hydrotherapy on the Gold Coast is a sought after alternative form of treatment that PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre now provide to all their clients, located at the Allamanda Private Hospital. 

Hydrotherapy reduces weight bearing through the joints, ensuring a comfortable and pain free mode of exercise and strengthening. It is most beneficial following any form of surgery including any joint replacements, following a stroke or a cardiovascular accident (CVA), and for various forms of pain including back, neck and arthritis. 

For details of Hydrotherapy sessions with our Physiotherapists and pricing please visit www.physioflex.com.au or contact us on 55 91 18 16

Reduce pain and stiffness with "Bak Balls" from PhysioFlex

Bak Balls are used by the Physiotherapists at  PhysioFlex to immediately reduce pain and stiffness and can be also used in your own home, at the office or while driving in your car to loosen a stiff and painful spine.

Bak Balls accelerate your recovery from back injuries, and reduce the chance of  pain recurring or continuing in the future.

By exerting pressure on stiff joints, BakBalls assist in long term treatment and preventing back pain and other various related condition's. They also allow you to safely self-treat your joints and muscles for relief without having to continually visit your Physio. 

BakBalls are designed to match the anatomy of your spine and provide therapeutic force directly onto the most common back pains and are extremely easy and safe to use. 

Bak Balls can be purchased from PhysioFlex for 

$49.90

PhysioFlex Mobile Physiotherapy Visits Medical Centres Near You

PhysioFlex understands it can be difficult to make your appointment at our Southport practice, so we travel to various Gold Coast medical centres to assist you with your Physio treatment. 

Including- 

Oxenford Medical Centre             

5 Michigan Drive

OXENFORD QLD 4210

Ben Mack, Principal Physiotherapist travels to Oxenford Medical Centre most Saturday mornings from 8.00am - 11.00am for all Physio services offered to EPC Care Plan, Veteran Affairs, Workcover and privately paid patients. To ensure your booking as these appointments fill up quickly each week, call PhysioFlex admin to secure your spot. 

Pacific Health Medical Centre 

Pacific Pines Boulevard

PACIFIC PINES QLD 4211

Ben also travels to Pacific Health Medical Centre in Pacific Pines to visit patients every Wednesday morning from 8.30am-10.00am. 

Medicross Helensvale                            

3 Sir John Overall Drive

HELENSVALE QLD 4212 

Morgan Pratt, Senior Physiotherapist travels to Medicross Helensvale each Wednesday afternoon from 1.00pm-5.00pm to visit patients.

Please call PhysioFlex on 55 91 18 16 to secure your appointments at any of the above locations. 

Therapeutic Ultrasound at PhysioFlex!

Therapeutic Ultrasound at PhysioFlex!

The latest Physiotherapy therapeutic ultrasound treatment is now available at Physio Flex Physiotherapy on the Gold Coast.

Benefits

1. The blood flow in the treated area is increased, speeding up the healing process.
2. Swelling and oedema is reduced. As a result, pain levels decrease.
3. Muscle tendons and ligaments in the region are gently massaged and no strain is added to pre-existing scar tissue.

Come into PhysioFlex Sports and Health Centre on the Gold Coast today for a free initial assessment and book a follow up appointment to check out this new and exciting technology in the Southport Physiotherapy practice. 

Ankle Re-sprain Related to Incomplete Recovery

Ankle Re-sprain Related to Incomplete Recovery 

An investigation published by the Australian Physiotherapy Association suggests that the incomplete recovery of ankle-sprain injuries relate to ongoing pain, instability and re-sprains. Patients who reported complaints of discomfort after 3 months continued to report similar symptoms 12 months after the initial sprain. Baseline factors at a 3 month follow-up examination were inconclusive in determining outcomes after 12 months.  And they were unable to identify prognostic factors during the same examination time frame, however the research suggests there is an increase chance of non-recovered ankles sprains at 12 months when "self-reported pain at rest" and "re-sprains" still occur after 3 months.

Here at PhysioFlex Physiothrapy practice on the Gold Coast, our trained professionals take care in ensuring that injuries sustained receive the appropriate assessment, treatment and recovery education. Patients experiencing ankle sprain or related injuries are advised in strapping techniques, strengthening and balance exercises and a written program for return to sport or daily activities to prevent a reoccurrence of problematic symptoms. The study in relation to ankle re-sprains shows support for the procedures and treatment plans of the physiotherapists at PhysioFlex. It is important that patients with ankle sprain history understand the importance of prevention methods to ensure that these symptoms do not affect movement and pain levels in the future.