What is an Exercise Physiologist and how can they help?

What’s the difference between a physio, exercise physiologist and personal trainer?

This is a great question and one we get asked often. There are more similarities between Exercise Physiologists (EP’s) and Physiotherapists than there are differences. There is some overlap – they are both Allied Health professionals and need to complete at least four years’ of specialised university training.

Traditionally, Physiotherapists focus on the rehabilitation of specific injuries and illness; they diagnose, offer manual therapy and prescribe basic exercises.

Exercise Physiologists typically assist people with chronic health conditions and disabilities, and have a holistic approach to their programs.

Exercise Physiologists spend ALL of their time developing and delivering movement/exercise/education based rehabilitation plans. If someone needs exercise as part of their recovery/rehabilitation, consulting with an EP is an excellent, (arguably the best) option. It is important to note that different companies have different specialities e.g. neurological, mental illness, musculoskeletal etc., and this can be an important factor to consider when choosing your individual therapist.

Personal Trainer’s provide a valuable service to people who are generally fit, healthy, and not needing to manage complex medical conditions. Personal Trainer’s will often refer people to Physiotherapists if an injury has occurred, or to an Exercise Physiologist when the person has a complex health condition and/or disability and wants to increase their physical activity levels safely. Personal Trainers are not Allied Health Professionals.

How can I use an EP in my NDIS plan ?

• Every program delivered by an EP should look different, because everyone’s situation will be different. The program should take into consideration things like:
• the participant’s NDIS and personal goals;
• the participant’s preferred location to work with the EP (at home, hydrotherapy, gym, clinic, community, online);
• their health conditions/disabilities (and related exercise guidelines);
• likes/dislikes/triggers;
• other available supports;
• and any recommendations from other health professionals.

NDIS Participants are able to access our Mobile Exercise Physiology services under the Capacity Building support categories of:

• • Improved Daily Living; and
  • Improved Health and Wellbeing.

Case Studies:

We assisted a young gentleman in his early 20’s who has Autism, to re-engage in the community. We did this by prescribing a graded activity program, starting with telehealth/online sessions, then to home visits, and then to the gym with the EP.

This gradual introduction means he is now able to attend the gym safely and productively with his Support Worker, where he follows the prescribed program set by the EP.

The exercise program, social interaction, and development of a routine has meant the participant can progress other areas of his life – he has healthy daily routines, has enrolled in a training course at TAFE with the view to getting a job  – and all of these are in line with his NDIS goals.

Another participant with Multiple Sclerosis had a goal of being able to improve her walking so she could safely and confidently step over the gap and onto a train. The participant was initially fearful of falling and needed a walker, but after guidance from her EP, lower limb strengthening and gait training exercises, she was able to gain confidence, improve her physical capacity and step onto the train safely! This means she can remain independent, visit her family and attend social events at her leisure – providing a direct improvement in her quality of life.

How long can I expect need treatment with an EP?

Again, this is completely individualised. The treatment plan is usually determined at the initial assessment and can depend on:

• the complexity of the persons situation;
• their ability to self-manage;
• their access to formal/informal supports;
• their goals;
• and their funding allocation.

We have supported less complex participants who simply needed an assessment and a report to help with their upcoming plan reviews, to more complex situations where the participant may need a weekly treatment program. Our goal is always to build the capacity of the person, to empower them to be able to self-manage their exercise routines.

How do I refer/self-refer?

Most Exercise Physiologists can be found on the internet or on social media. Often, reputable EPs will have good relationships with local doctors, so getting a recommendation from your GP can be a good idea. If you have an NDIS Support Coordinators they can also be a great resource too.

Exercise and Sport Science Australia is the governing body of Exercise Physiologists – they have a useful tool on their website that helps people to ‘find an exercise professional near you’, this can be found here: https://www.essa.org.au/find-aep/

Typically, you don’t need a referral to consult with an Exercise Physiologist under the NDIS. Choose a provider and either give them a call or refer online.

Uplift Exercise Physiology has a quick and easy online referral form: https://upliftexercise.com.au/index.php/referral-form-ndis/