The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) today launched their ‘With Your Physio’ campaign, targeting the more than 11 million Australians who live with one or more chronic health conditions to seek out physiotherapy as part of their journey.

The campaign will begin with a focus on common women’s health conditions, including sexual health, incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Running from May to August, the campaign is designed to educate regular Australians who may feel uncomfortable talking about their chronic health condition, and encourage them to see their physiotherapist.

Physiotherapists are experts in treating patients living with chronic conditions through exercise prescription, lifestyle modification and evaluation, and should be part of the patient’s journey to ensure the condition is managed appropriately.

Women’s, Men’s and Pelvic Health physiotherapist Vanessa Wilmot, APAM, says physiotherapists are skilled in identifying other comorbidities, in addition to prescribing exercise, which impact the underlying condition.

“Prescription of exercise as a form of medicine/health management is increasingly important to manage chronic health conditions, in order to prevent further decline and/or recover full health of the patient,” says Vanessa.

“Physiotherapists help you recover from injury, reduce pain and stiffness, increase mobility and prevent further injury. We listen to your needs to tailor a treatment specific to your condition.

“We want Australians to see physiotherapy as an integral part of their health recovery and to help prevent future illness, disease and injury from occurring.

“Some of the many techniques physiotherapists use to treat and help you overcome your condition include, prescribing exercise programs to improve mobility and strengthen muscles, educating about their condition, then implementing and re-evaluating exercise as treatment.

“People who live with chronic health conditions, such as chronic pain, cancer and women’s or men’s health concerns, are able to get back to doing what they love with their physio.”

A number of fact sheets highlighting key information on sexual health, incontinence and prolapse have been developed and can be accessed here. A focus on cancer will be the second chronic health condition in the campaign, kicking off in September 2021.

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Vanessa Wilmot is available for further comment.