Services at contact physio
Acc Claim
After an injury or an operation, we will log a claim with ACC and get authorisation for subsidised physiotherapy treatment. You will have a full assessment and diagnosis, have your condition clearly explained to you and with your consent receive appropriate treatment. We will also provide you with advice on how you can help to reduce your pain and get back to work or sport faster. A home programme of stretches and strengthening exercises will hasten your recovery and help prevent your problem recurring.
Sports Injury
After an acute injury follow the advice for RICE found under the Physio FAQ. section. Contact Physiotherapists can help you decide if you need to see a doctor. Most common sports injuries are muscle strains, ligament sprains and bruises however it is important to exclude fractures, dislocations and muscle/ligament tears. Call and discuss your condition with us at Contact Physiotherapy and we can advise you. We have modalities to help to reduce pain and swelling and assist in increasing range of motion and restoring normal muscle function and gait. These steps can help you get mobile as soon as possible. Sport specific rehabilitation can improve performance and help prevent injury. Strapping can also be an important part of the return to sport process. It can help to protect the injured tissue reducing the strains on it during progressive rehab back to top performance.
Back and Neck Pain
Back and neck pain are two of the most common complaints we see. Krissy’s Masters in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy from Curtin University in Western Australia was a year of full time study, specialising in the treatment and management of spinal pain and disability. These conditions are most easily treated in the first few weeks after a sprain but even if you have had pain for years there are often things that can be done to ease your symptoms and improve your day to day life. Simple advice about posture and activity can make sure you are not aggravating your condition and maintain your fitness and ability to work and play.She is also qualified in the Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy of the Lumbar Spine using the McKenzie approach. He pioneered the concept that people can fix their own back pain with exercise and posture. Now with modern day scans and research there is strong evidence that his diagnostic protocol and exercise principles ease back pain. You do not need to be incapacitated by back pain- come and talk to us and get an exercise regime that works for you.
Pilates
Pilates is a whole body exercise involving breathing, focus, stretching and a strong centre. It improves posture, flexibility, core strength and well being. The initial exercises are for people of any age or level- all they require is some patience and practice! Contact Physiotherapy have completed training in specialist clinical Pilates- designed by physiotherapists as a rehabilitation tool. It is designed using a comprehensive search of all the highest quality most up to date research from around the globe to give the best results with the least amount of strain on your body. Pilates is designed to work all muscle groups of the body in balance and avoid the selective over training we get from our daily work or sport. It includes flexibility, strength and endurance and can be adjusted to suit peoples abilities at all levels. Each class will be adjusted to provide a range of options for you so any physical problems you may have can be addressed as oppose to a general exercise class which may aggravate existing pain. It can assist in improving posture, reducing back and neck pain, enhancing pelvic floor function and giving the body flexibility and muscle definition. Contact Physiotherapy is running Level 1 and 2 Clinical Pilates Mat Classes each week in Methven and Staveley.
Bio-Mechanical Assessment
Posture, old injuries and genetics all play a part in how we move and perform physically. At Contact Physiotherapy we can carry out an assessment specifically for your biomechanics and physical goals. These can take place at your gym or our clinic. A Functional Movement Screen can be an indicator of potential sources of weakness or asymmetries which could benefit from rehabilitation. The screen provides a score which if a client performs below a certain level can indicate likely musculoskeletal injury. We have used the screen and subsequent rehab on anyone from masters marathon runners to high level endurance a athletes- the results are more varied and surprising than you might think!
Physical Conditioning Programs
At Contact Physiotherapy we can carry out an assessment specifically for your biomechanics and physical goals. These can take place at the gym or our clinic and can also be carried out in the gym or at home.Conditioning is important for a range of individuals, from older people who are having falls at home to athletes who are optimising their performance. Assessment involves looking at flexibility, strength and balance. For sport, endurance and speed are necessary. Training needs to be relevant to each person’s goals and intent.Our physiotherapists have the medical experience to liaise with you and/or your surgeon or GP to plan your programme with consideration to your health needs. Conditions like osteoporosis, chronic lung conditions, depression and heart problems benefit from appropriate exercise.No training programme ever goes without a hitch. Having professional supervision can manage these and manage problems that could prevent you from reaching your goals. Contact Physiotherapy will work with you to plan your exercise regime- the frequency, time, intensity, goals and outcomes timed and recorded. The hardest part is getting started. Everyone can benefit from an exercise programme. We are here to start and support the process.
Rehabilitation and Fitness
We can develop a home or gym based exercise programme to assist you in optimising your strength and fitness. This saves you time and money and lets you do your rehabilitation when it works in with your lifestyle. We cover everything from a gently loading programme for those with osteoporosis to high level sport specific rehabilitation to get you back on top of your game.
Pelvic Joint Pain
Pelvic Joint Pain- During and after pregnancy, the hormone relaxing allows ligaments all over the body to soften so that they can stretch during delivery. In some women this can cause a sensation of pain or instability in the pelvis during walking, stairs and lifting. Other causes of pelvic joint pain can be a traumatic sports injury, car or riding accident or hypermobility syndrome. A physiotherapist can use combination of appropriate joint mobilisations, exercise and acupuncture, massage or electrotherapy to reduce pain and improve function.
Tennis Elbow and Achilles Tendonitis
Tendonosis or tendonopathy can occur in any tendon. Tennis elbow and achilles tendonosis are two common examples of the often painful and debilitating condition. Acutely it can be inflammation in the tendon and once it has been going on for many weeks the tendon can demonstrate nodules and tissue irregularity. Research has demonstrated up to 85% improvement in achilles tendonopathy with eccentric loading exercises. An assessment including training review, biomechanics, cores stability and sports equipment and orthotics will be included.
Arthritis
Physiotherapy can help those suffering from arthritis. Osteo arthritis is a normal part of our bodies function as we mature. Not everyone with joint changes has pain. The difference can be as simple as having an appropriate stretching and strengthening programme or using massage and acupuncture to reduce flare ups. Our physiotherapists can help look at practical ways around day to day problems to assist you in leading a full and happy life. Those with other arthritic conditions like ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis can also benefit from the these techniques.
Acupuncture
Based on part of the treatments in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture has been adapted by Western medicine and suitably trained physiotherapists use it along side physiotherapy techniques for mobility and pain relief. Acupuncture uses sharp thin needles inserted into the body at specific appoints. In TCM it is believed to adjust the body’s energy flow to promote health and harmony. Western research has proved that acupuncture releases the body’s natural endorphins and other chemicals associated with pain relief and well being. The World Health Organisation recommends acupuncture for over forty medical problems including chronic pain, headaches, back injuries and arthritis. Krissy has been trained in acupuncture since 1997 and up skilled to new international physiotherapy standards in 2007. Skilled TCM practitioners use acupuncture of the treatment of conditions other than musculo-skeletal. Their skills should be sought specifically for your problem.
Massage
Contact Physiotherapy use massage as an integral part of their treatment techniques. The stroking of soft tissues can aid muscle relaxation, promote flexibility and movement, aid circulation and relieve pain and tension. Particularly when used with clients own stretches and pain management techniques lasting relief can be achieved. Different styles of massage can target specific tissues eg, connective tissue massage, myofascial release, deep sports massage and acupressure or trigger point massage.
Falls Prevention
Physiotherapists at Contact Physiotherapy have completed training in the Otago Falls Prevention Programme. It has been recognised internationally as a highly successful exercise programme which can reduce falls and associated injuries by 35%. Walking and Tai Chi are also great exercise to keep you fit and strong and prevent falls. Sometimes all it takes is an expert helping you set the right level to commence exercise and get the intensity right. Anyone at any age can benefit- even if you start by practicing getting in and out the chair!
Chronic Pain management
The unfortunate reality for some people is that they have had injuries or have conditions which cannot be completely resolved and thus will live with a degree of discomfort. By listening to you explain your condition and keeping up to date with medical research, Contact Physiotherapy can assist people to manage their pain and ongoing activities with relaxation, pacing, home exercise programs and support. Krissy has completed specialist pain courses run by psychologists by Michael JL Sullivan PhD (Progressive Goal Attainment Programme) and Michael Nicholas PhD- both of whom are expert pain management researchers. They supply measurement tools, literature, activity diaries and DVD’s to assist clients in understanding and managing their condition.
Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle hands on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a physiological body system called the craniosacral system- comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. CST is a light touch manual therapy, the client clothed and lying down and enhances the body’s natural healing processes. Pioneered by John Upledger, MD light pressure is used through the body, spine, head and mouth to affect any imbalance negatively influencing the brain and spinal cord. CST can reduce stress, alleviate neck and back pain, headaches, fibromyalgia, neurovascular and immune disorders to name a few and may help some chronic conditions which have not been aided by other approaches. Here at Contact Physio we have had some amazing results- one gentleman had been seeing specialists for six years for head and ear pain and his symptoms were abolished after three sessions of CST. Krissy has completed courses in CST 1 and 2 and somato-emotional release 1 and Paediatric 1 and 2. She further expanded her knowledge completing Developing and Deepening CranioSacral Presence. These advanced qualifications qualify her to work with new-borns, children and their families.
Somalink
Somalink in a non invasive, natural healing system which uses muscle testing to assess for deficiencies in the body’s health and balance then uses tapping on the head and the heart to stimulate the body’s inner ability to clear the body of any blocks between these systems. It is based on the principle that health requires the uninterrupted flow of life force through these energy fields. If these fields are compromised by fatigue, illness, stress or surgery then disharmony will lead to lower vitality, lower resistance, and thence disease. Recently a bout of glandular fever has brought several people to the door for somalink- because it works at such a deep level through the body’s organs and endocrine systems like the thyroid and pituitary glands, somalink treatment quickly restored energy and well being to those depleted by that draining virus.
Visceral Mobilisation
Visceral Manipulation (VM) was developed by world-renowned French Osteopath and Physical Therapist Jean-Pierre Barral. VM assesses and treats organs, fascia and ligaments in the abdomen, chest and pelvis. Release of restrictions there can relieve pain, improve range of motion and optimise organ function. Comparative studies found Visceral Manipulation beneficial for various disorders like scar tissue, whiplash, reflux, pelvic pain and sciatica. Most recently we have had amazing results with stubborn, chronic shoulder pain! Krissy has been studying the curriculum since 2014 and has completed VM1 and 2 (abdomen), VM 3 (pelvis), VM4 (thoracic cage), Listening 1 and VM5- Manual Thermal Evaluation . She is so committed to the value of this work that she has repeated VM 1 and 2 three times and is now acting as a teaching assistant for these courses.
Stress Management
Stress is an increasing part of today’s society. Stress does not just come from a huge upsetting event, it can just be a series of small stressors until we start to demonstrate symptoms like reduced ability to sleep, irritability, low mood, reduced confidence and productivity. The body can also have symptoms like increased heart rate, rapid breathing, sweating and even panic attacks. At Contact Physio we can help by teaching relaxation and breathing exercises. Regular exercise has also been shown to assist in controlled breathing and lifting of low mood.
Stress Incontinence
Men and women frequently experience episodes of leaking urine during activities like laughing or lifting. It is typically caused by pelvic floor weakness which can develop after pregnancy, back pain, weight fluctuations or bad bladder habits. Typically learning simple exercises can strengthen these muscles and bring back confidence and independence without needing pads or planning regular toilet stops. If exercises do not help there are specialist nurses and doctors who you can be referred to.
Ergonomics and Work Station Assessment
Ergonomic and work station assessment and management of repetitive strain conditions. Contact Physiotherapy can advise on lifting techniques, computer and desk set up and how best to look after yourself to avoid lost time from work with the pain and disability associated with occupational overuse. Seeking advice early can help prevent long term, painful problems in the future.
Hydrotherapy
Many conditions rehab best in the water. In Ashburton our physio will assess you first, identify your goals and limitations, meet with you at the EA Networks Community Pool to set up a personal pool rehab programme just for you. Or ask your physiotherapist to advise you of exercises you can do yourself in the water.