Uniting Wellness

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Lidcombe, NSW
Uniting Wellness

• Women's Health
•NDIS
• Home Visit
• Lymphoedema Management
• Pilates Exercise Programs Hello there! I'm Winnie, a physio and I'm thrilled to connect with you.

I've been on a journey of learning and growth in Women’s Health since completing my Bachelor's degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Sydney in 2013. Over the years, I've had the privilege of working in various private practices and communities, focusing on Women's Health and Lymphoedema. I'm not just a Physiotherapist—I'm also an APPI accredited Pilates instructor and an ALA Accredited Lymp

hoedema Practitioner. My goal is to partner with you on your wellness journey, crafting exercise programs that are perfectly tailored to your needs and aspirations. Together, we'll aim to restore your body's functional capacity, fostering genuine health and wellbeing. I offer home visit physiotherapy services in the North Shore of Sydney, ensuring convenience and comfort as we work towards your goals. During my spare time, I find joy in playing tennis, bushwalking, gym, and reading. I can't wait to join you on this empowering journey towards a healthier, happier you!

06/05/2024

Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disabling disease that affects the brain and the spinal cord (the central nervous system). In MS, the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin sheath) that covers the nerves. This results in a disturbance in the signals that are sent to and from the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body.

The disturbance in these signals results in symptoms such as:

-Numbness

-Tingling

-Mood changes

-Memory issues

-Pain

-Fatigue

-Vision impairment and blindness

Balance training is one of the components of an exercise program.Balance training reduces the risk of injury and falls, increasing walking speed and overall physical functioning.Balance exercise should involve controlled body movements while standing in a narrow stance (or standing on one leg), with as little arm support as possible and on surfaces that are soft, slanted or unlevel. Added movement rather than staying stationary as well as altering head position and visual cues can create a sensory rich environment that effectively trains not only balance but muscle function as well. Exercises should be safe, so to start do your training with the support of another person or beside a table/seat/wall before trying by yourself.The more we challenge and alter these aspects the more our balance will be challenged!

Exercise is necessary for holistic health. If you haven't worked out in a little while, this is your friendly reminder to shake up your day with some movement!

02/05/2024

What neurological conditions can an NDIS physiotherapist help with?
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
-Dementia
-Stroke
-Motor neurone disease
-Huntington’s disease
-Acquired and traumatic brain injuries
-Developmental delay
-Cerebral palsy
-Spinal cord injuries
-Guillain Barre syndrome
-Muscular dystrophy
-Fibromyalgia
-Peripheral neuropathy
-Chronic fatigue syndrome
-Epilepsy
-Autism/autism spectrum disorders
-Functional neurological disorder

Did you know that neurological physiotherapy addresses the movement issues associated with neurological conditions by optimising the function of your nervous system organs and pathways?
The goal for NDIS participants is often to support enhanced function through better movement. For some NDIS participants, this may include using adaptive technologies and/or different movement strategies for achieving your goals.

24/04/2024

Cerebral Palsy Management

- Strengthening exercises: These aim to increase the power of weak muscle groups to support better function, such as the achievement of developmental milestones and fine and gross motor skills.
- Functional training: This involves therapeutic exercises and activities to enhance your child’s ability to complete functional tasks, such as walking, jumping, transferring, and climbing stairs.
- Aerobic exercise: Exercises that raise the heart and breathing rate over a sustained period (such as walking, cycling and swimming) can help to improve your child’s fitness and ability to participate in sport and recreational activities.
- Stretching: Muscle spasticity (increased tension) is a common characteristic of CP. Stretching techniques may be used to improve or maintain range of movement, reduce the risk of muscle shortening and contractures, and improve functional ability (e.g. walking ability).
- Casting and splinting: These may be used to provide gentle stretching over a longer period, with a goal of reducing contracture and spasticity and increasing range of motion. Serial casting is a specialised technique which involves repeated applications of a cast, usually every one to two weeks, to gradually increase range of motion.
- Pain management: Pain is another common feature of CP. In a 2020 study involving 3545 children and adolescents with the condition, 44% of participants reported experiencing pain, with 36% of these reporting that pain disturbed their sleep, and 61% their daily activities. Over time, physiotherapy may help to relieve pain as range of motion and joint alignment improve. Physiotherapy techniques such as hydrotherapy and heat and cold therapies may also help with pain management.

17/04/2024

One to one Physio Antenatal Pilates
Prenatal Pilates is a specialized exercise program designed for expectant mothers to help them maintain physical fitness, strengthen muscles, improve posture, and prepare for childbirth. Pilates exercises during pregnancy focus on gentle movements that are safe and effective for both the mother and the baby.
The benefits of prenatal Pilates include:
• Strengthening core muscles: Prenatal Pilates exercises target the deep abdominal muscles, pelvic floor muscles, and back muscles, which can help support the growing abdomen and alleviate back pain.
• Improving posture: As pregnancy progresses, changes in weight distribution can lead to poor posture. Prenatal Pilates helps improve posture by strengthening the muscles that support the spine and pelvis.
• Enhancing flexibility and balance: Prenatal Pilates incorporates gentle stretching exercises that help maintain flexibility and improve balance, which can be especially beneficial as the body undergoes changes during pregnancy.
• Promoting relaxation and reducing stress: Prenatal Pilates includes breathing techniques and relaxation exercises that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which is important for both the mother and the baby.
• Preparing for childbirth: Pilates exercises during pregnancy can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can be beneficial for labor and delivery.
It’s important for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, including prenatal Pilates, to ensure that it is safe for them and their baby. Additionally, modifications may be necessary as pregnancy progresses to accommodate the changing needs of the body.

14/04/2024

Huntington’s disease
Huntington's disease is a condition that affects the brain, causing gradual loss of control over movements, thinking, and emotions. It's a progressive disorder, meaning it gets worse over time.

Living with Huntington’s disease can present challenges, but there are ways to help manage symptoms and stay active. Physiotherapy, for example, focuses on keeping you moving and independent.

During a physiotherapy assessment, your therapist will check how well you move around, keep your balance, and handle daily tasks like going up stairs or getting in and out of a car. They'll also talk to you about your medical history, what you're experiencing now, and what you hope to achieve.

Physiotherapy for Huntington’s disease often includes exercises and techniques to:

- Improve mobility, balance, and coordination

- Recommend tools like walking aids to make moving around easier

- Teach you how to maintain good posture and prevent stiffness and pain

- Offer guidance on staying active and exercising safely

- Provide strategies to avoid falls.

These interventions can make a big difference in helping you maintain your independence and quality of life, despite the challenges of Huntington’s disease.

07/04/2024

Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes pain in the muscles and bones, overall fatigue and tiredness. Many who live with Fibromyalgia are less physically active.

Pain is a complex process the body experiences. It is unpleasant and evokes responses both internally and externally from the individual. When pain persists, and is chronic, it can become debilitating to one’s daily life. If you are in pain, you may know you need to move, but it may be hard to move because you are ‘trapped by the pain’.

The key is to MOVE, as benefits arise from exercise that focuses on strengthening muscles to decrease the above listed symptoms.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFICIAL EXERCISES?

- Slow stretching

- Light resistance exercise

- Low-intensity aerobic activity

- Low-impact walking

- Swimming

- Tai Chi/Yoga

AEROBIC EXERCISE

Why aerobic? Aerobic exercise is now regarded as a standard treatment for Fibromyalgia because of its benefits to overall well-being as well as fitness.

How: The style, type, intensity and duration of your aerobic training must be individualized and is best assessed by an Accredited Exercise Physiologist.

RESISTANCE EXERCISE

What are the benefits? Strength gain, lower pain level, reduced tenderness, greater overall well-being and functionality.

How long until you start to see benefits? At least 6 months until benefits are seen.

How should you begin resistance exercises? First consult an Exercise Physiologist prior to commencing resistance exercise. Intensity to avoid onset of pain. A safer alternative is using therabands and dumbbells (free weights), and gradually increasing resistance.

TAI CHI AS A FORM OF NEW THERAPY

What does the research suggest? Tai Chi should be used as an adjunct to physical therapy as benefits will not yield alone. Practicing Tai Chi twice weekly over 12 weeks in a study produced worthwhile benefits in balance, functionality, pain control and severity as well as sleep. Tai Chi is also beneficial for muscles to stretch, improving flexibility in a low impact manner.

The mind: Research also revealed the psychological improvement to pain when performing Tai chi. The controlled breathing and movements lead to restful state and mental tranquility, which likely raised pain thresholds.

Four tips for managing Fibromyalgia symptoms:

Listen to your body; reduce intensity when you are experiencing greater and increased levels of pain,

Understand that pain will not cause further damage,

Our muscles and ligaments love to move and feel better after movement,

When you first commence exercise, be sure to exercise on non-consecutive days, in order to allow the body to recover and rest.

Contact us today to see an Accredited Exercise Physiologist who is qualified and experienced in exercise prescription for those living with chronic conditions.

04/04/2024

Paediatric physiotherapy is a specific branch of physiotherapy that focuses on treating children from infancy to adolescence. Paediatric physiotherapists work with children and young people to improve their physical abilities, promote independence, and enhance their quality of life.
Physiotherapy can help children with different paediatric conditions:
- Build muscle strength, flexibility, balance or coordination
- Keep up with their peers
- Reach developmental milestones
- Develop skills to participate in sport or school activities
- Become more independent with daily living
- Access their community.

02/04/2024

Dementia
Dementia is a broad term used to describe a deterioration in cognitive function that is not associated with normal ageing. This condition is mostly common in people aged above the age of 65 years.

What are the physical impacts of Dementia?

“Each person with dementia will experience the condition differently but some of the physical problems associated with dementia include:

- Slower reaction time

- Weaker muscles

- Poor coordination

- Trouble doing more than one thing at a time – for example carrying a cup of tea while walking, and

- Balance problems including falls.”

(Dementia Australia, 2022)

Evidence-based physiotherapy and exercise physiology interventions for people with Dementia.

A physiotherapist and an exercise physiologist can work in a multi-disciplinary team to maximise positive physical and cognitive outcomes in people with Dementia by providing an individualised, meaningful exercise program.

Evidence has shown that exercises can help improve the quality of life and independence of older Australians living with dementia, by:

- Improving motor skills such as gait and balance

- Reducing frailty

- Reducing the number of falls and fractures

- Slowing cognitive decline

- Improving cognition, agitation, mood

And there you have it! Exercises interventions can definitely maximise the physical and cognitive symptoms of someone with dementia and improve their overall quality of life!

Contact us today to see how we can help you.

28/03/2024

Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness associated with extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression) lasting for up to several months at a time.

Symptoms of manic episodes:

- High energy

- Easily excitable

- Reduced need for sleep

- Agitation

Symptoms of depressive episodes

- Low motivation and energy

- Low appetite

- Guilt and sadness

- Lack of interest in daily activities

Exercise has been shown to have both psychological and physical benefits for people with Bipolar disorder. Exercise Physiology services are beneficial for all people diagnosed with Bipolar disorder.

Contact us today to see how we can help you.

26/03/2024

How is therapeutic support funded under the NDIS?
NDIS therapeutic support can be funded under different categories of your Capacity Building budget.

Improved Daily Living (category 15)

NDIS funded therapeutic supports most often fall under this budget category. As the name suggests, this budget provides funding for the participants to work with therapists to improve your everyday living skills. Therapy under this NDIS budget category is about supporting you to become more independent, participate safely and confidently in your community, and reach your goals. Therapies funded under this category may be delivered individually or in group settings.

Improved Health and Wellbeing (category 12)

Therapy support funded under this budget category is about helping you to improve or maintain your physical mobility, health and wellbeing. For example, it could include funding for support from an exercise physiologist to create an exercise plan to help improve your fitness capacity so you can access your community or participate in sport. Or a dietitian can advise you about dietary changes to help you manage the effects of your disability. With regards to pricing for therapeutic support, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) sets price limits that help make sure NDIS participants get good value from their support packages. These prices are reviewed annually, with costs for different supports published in the ‘NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits’ document (formerly called the ‘NDIS Price Guide’).

Get support from our physiotherapists, exercise physiologists or dieticians!

24/03/2024

The Hardship Program is a joint philanthropic initiative between the Sydney Breast Cancer Foundation (SBCF) and Essity, to support breast cancer patients experiencing financial hardship with short term access to quality compression therapy.

It is reported that 20% of all breast cancer patients will experience lymphoedema (swelling) of the breast or arm.

With knowledge that many patients do not have the financial means to access compression therapy during their recovery period, the SBCF and Essity have joined forces to support the most vulnerable. The Hardship Program offers medical compression products free of charge to help the probability of access to good care and regaining quality of life.

How do I apply to the program?

Treating lymphoedema therapists can apply for financial support for supply of a JOBST Bella or Bellisse product. Applications can be submitted directly to hello@sbcf.org.au. If eligible, SBCF will approve one application per person.

The program and approval process are managed by the SBCF to ensure independence and governance of charitable donations. Essity support the foundation through the provision of medical products.

Who is responsible for my prescription, fitting and follow up care?

Treating lymphoedema therapists will be responsible for all medical care needs including compression garment style prescription, fitting and follow up care. Any medical queries cannot be supported by the SBCF or the collection hubs and are the medical responsibility of the treating clinician.

21/03/2024

What is World Down Syndrome Day?
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) , 21 March, is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012.
The date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.
Around 1 in every 800 babies will be born with Down syndrome.
Down syndrome occurs naturally – there is no known cause.
Down syndrome usually causes varying degrees of intellectual and physical
disability and associated medical issues.

Exercises can play a crucial role in enhancing the physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being of individuals with Down syndrome.
Physical Health: Regular exercise can improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, flexibility, and coordination. This can help individuals with Down syndrome in daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, and maintaining balance.
Weight Management: Many individuals with Down syndrome are at risk of obesity. Engaging in regular physical activity can help manage weight by burning calories and increasing metabolism.
Bone Health: Individuals with Down syndrome often have lower bone density, which puts them at a higher risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, dancing, or weightlifting, can help improve bone density and strength.
Motor Skills Development: Exercise programs focusing on motor skills development can improve coordination, balance, and fine and gross motor skills. These skills are essential for activities of daily living, such as dressing, eating, and writing.
Social Interaction: Participating in group exercise programs can provide opportunities for social interaction and the development of social skills. It can also boost self-esteem and confidence.
Cognitive Benefits: Exercise has been shown to have cognitive benefits, including improved attention, memory, and learning abilities. Physical activity stimulates the release of neurotransmitters and growth factors that support brain health.
Emotional Well-being: Regular exercise can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression by promoting the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. It can also improve sleep quality and overall feelings of well-being.

When designing exercise programs for individuals with Down syndrome, it's essential to consider their unique strengths, abilities, and preferences. Programs should be tailored to their specific needs and may include a combination of aerobic exercises, strength training, balance and coordination exercises, and activities that promote flexibility and motor skills development. Additionally, exercises should be performed in a safe and supportive environment, with proper supervision and guidance from qualified professionals such as physiotherapists or exercise physiologists.

18/03/2024

Exercise safely with diabetes:

Ensuring safe and effective exercise for individuals managing diabetes is paramount, and it all starts with a personalized assessment of your readiness to engage in physical activity. Here's your roadmap to a healthier, active lifestyle:
1. Consult with your GP : Before lacing up those sneakers, consult with your trusted GP to receive exercise clearance tailored to your specific health needs and goals.
2. Step into Safety: Strap on those enclosed shoes and embark on your fitness journey with confidence. Remember to regularly inspect your feet for any signs of cuts, redness, or swelling to prevent complications.
3. Hydration Station: Keep your body fueled and hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Additionally, fuel up with a carbohydrate-rich snack at least 30 minutes before your workout to power through with optimal energy levels.
4. Glucose Check: Stay in the driver's seat of your health by monitoring your blood glucose levels diligently. Aim for the sweet spot of 5.0 - 10.0mmol/L before, during, and after exercise, as recommended by Diabetes Australia. If your levels dip below this range, a quick fix like a piece of fruit or a soft drink can swiftly restore balance, recheck it again after 10 - 15 minutes.
- Exercise prescriptions for people with diabetes should be individualized so if you have been diagnosed with high blood glucose levels and would like to start exercising get in touch with one of our Exercise Physiologists today to see how we can create an appropriate exercise program that is suited for you.

17/03/2024

Early intervention in Paediatric Physiotherapy/Exercise Physiology
Embracing the potential of early intervention in peediatric physiotherapy/exercise physiolgy means unlocking the power to transform young lives from the very start. By swiftly identifying and addressing physical or developmental challenges in children, we pave the way for a future filled with boundless possibilities.
Picture a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive, unhindered by obstacles that could have been addressed earlier. That's the vision of early intervention physiotherapy and exercise physiology – a proactive approach that champions early detection and prompt action to nurture optimal development.
Enter the realm of the NDIS early childhood approach, a beacon of hope for children with developmental delays or disabilities. Here, the focus is not just on treatment, but on empowerment. It's about equipping both the child and their family with the tools and support needed to embrace inclusion and participation in every facet of life – be it at home, in school, or within their broader community.
With early intervention, we're not just altering outcomes; we're shaping brighter futures, one step at a time. Join us in this journey of empowerment, where every child's potential is not just recognized, but fully realized.

From July 1, 2023, the early childhood approach changed to include children younger than nine. Children younger than six with signs of developmental concerns do not need a diagnosis to access support through the NDIS early childhood approach.

15/03/2024

Exercises for Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (also simply known as autism or ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts a child’s behaviour and social and communication skills. Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicate that around 1 in 150 Australians have autism, with males 4.1 times more likely to be affected than females, although Autism Spectrum Australia believe about 1 in 70 people are on the spectrum.

7 fun exercises for kids with autism:
1. Dance
2. Swimming
3. Martial arts
4. Ball throwing
5. Jumping
6. Crawling
7. Walking or runnig

All children develop at different rates, some children are slower than others. Gross motor development of children is one aspect that can be delayed. Children aged 9 to 12 years should be becoming increasingly skilled with sports, usually enjoying team games (such as soccer, football, cricket, tennis etc.), are able to swim, show increased awareness and self-perception and demonstrate increased awareness of own physical skills and how they appear to others. If you have a child aged 9 to 12 years and you are concerned about their development particularly that of their gross motor skills and their reactions to physical activities book in with one of our Exercise Physiologists today to see how we can help.

14/03/2024

Lymphoedema
What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is the accumulation of excessive amounts of interstitial fluid in the tissues resulting in chronic swelling and other associated symptoms in one or more regions of the body, which manifests in the tissues as free fluid accumulation, fibrosis and fatty tissue development.
Primary Lymphoedema:
The three most common conditions in this category include Turner, Noonan and Prader Willi syndromes.
Secondary Lymphoedema:
The cancers most commonly associated with post-treatment lymphoedema include breast, prostate, te**is, uterus, cervix and o***y, lymphoma, melanoma and various head and neck tumours.
Lymphoedema Physiotherapy Management:
Compression bandaging/pump
Compression garment prescription
Manual lymphatic drainage/self-lymphatic drainage, Skin care, Individualized exercise program, Prospective surveillance and early intervention

11/03/2024

Benefits of Exercise Physiology

🚀Improve Your Functional Abilities: Walk further, climb stairs with ease, manage daily tasks more efficiently. Our tailored programs enhance strength, flexibility, endurance, and overall mobility.

🚀Manage Chronic Conditions: Exercise Physiology can play a vital role in managing pain, fatigue, diabetes, and more. Our EPs work closely with your healthcare team to design a program that supports your specific needs and promotes well-being.

🚀Boost Confidence and Mood: Regular physical activity improves mood, reduces stress, and enhances self-esteem. Achieve your fitness goals, gain confidence in your abilities, and experience a renewed sense of control over your life.

🚀Discover Activities You Enjoy: Go beyond traditional gym exercises! We focus on finding and incorporating activities you enjoy, like swimming, dancing, or exploring the outdoors, ensuring safe participation.

🚀Collaborative Support: We work hand-in-hand with your NDIS Support Coordinators, Allied Health Professionals and other health professionals, and your support network to ensure your program seamlessly aligns with your overall care plan.

06/03/2024

An NDIS Exercise Physiologist (EP) is a qualified, registered allied health professional. EPs help you manage physical difficulties resulting from illness, injury, disability or ageing to improve your movement and physical function.
Uniting Wellness’s NDIS Exercise Physiologists work with people with disabilities across Sydney. We focus on supporting people who have intellectual disability, mental illness and neurological conditions.
Our experienced and dedicated home NDIS EP team can see you in your preferred environment, whether that’s at home, work, school or a convenient local facility.
Our NDIS EPs will take the time to get to know you, making sure they understand your health needs, as well as any cultural or lifestyle preferences you may have.

Address

Lidcombe, NSW

Telephone

+61481914318

Website

http://unitingwellness.com.au/

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