Meet Amara, our dedicated exercise physiologist who has recently transitioned from part-time to full-time at North West Physio Lutwyche! Her passion for helping the community and her expertise in exercise physiology make her an invaluable asset to our team. Let’s dive into Amara’s journey and insights.
Congrats on going full-time! What excites you most about this next chapter?
Increasing my hours to full-time at North West Physio Lutwyche gives me the opportunity to serve a greater population of the Lutwyche community and introduce more people to the benefits of exercise physiology. I’m also enjoying getting to know my NWP Lutwyche team better and continuing a collaborative approach to treatment with our physiotherapists.
How do you tailor exercise plans for beginners or those new to rehab?
In the initial assessment, we discuss each patient’s goals and needs. We define their exercise tolerance, strength, and mobility levels through a series of tests, which then inform the exercise prescription. Patients new to exercise are monitored closely with regular follow-up appointments, especially if they are completing a home exercise program.
What advice do you have for new mums looking to regain strength postpartum?
For new mums returning to exercise, I recommend checking in with their pelvic floor and women’s health physiotherapist for clearance to recommence their exercise routine. This is especially important if there were complications during labour. A consultation with an exercise physiologist can then help set up a plan to return to prenatal activity levels and address any new goals. During this appointment, we can also screen for any new symptoms that may need a referral back to the pelvic floor and women’s health physio.
What’s a common myth about exercise physiology that you’d love to debunk?
Many people think exercise physiologists and physiotherapists are the same. However, exercise physiologists focus on exercise throughout the lifespan, chronic illness, and ongoing rehab and management for muscle injury, whereas physiotherapists treat acute injuries and provide manual therapy.
How does Kinetic Link Training (KLT) support injury recovery and movement?
KLT can improve coordination and optimise movement patterns, helping restore a pain-free range of motion and improved stability and strength, which reduces the likelihood of ongoing injury.
Can you share a standout success story from your time at North West Physio Lutwyche?
One of my patients, diagnosed with a neurological functional disorder, started seeing me halfway through last year. She initially used a stick for mobility and AFO supports. Her journey included hydrotherapy, in-clinic sessions, and home exercises. Now, less than a year later, she’s taken a step closer to finishing her Vet Nursing qualification and has started working in a dog daycare and boarding service, remaining mostly independent.
How do you help clients who are nervous about starting exercise?
If someone is nervous about starting exercise, I take the time to build rapport and understand where they feel comfortable beginning their exercise journey. We generally take a slower approach until they feel more confident in themselves and their abilities.
Need to schedule an appointment with Amara or one of our other expert physiotherapists? She’s here to help you every step of the way. Book an appointment
By Vince
