Australian Physiotherapy Association

With 29 Australian universities offering Physiotherapy degrees, it is apparent that there is more choice than ever. Teaching and learning methods have changed over the years, shifting from traditional lectures and tutorials to more independent modes of learning and problem-solving. ‘There’s a much stronger focus on building critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities,’ says Associate Professor Verity Pacey from Macquarie University. ‘It’s much less didactic.’ Understand where physiotherapy is headed with this article from this month’s InMotion: https://bit.ly/3Z7fNkc

This month, the APA has been supporting the Stroke Foundation’s Stide4Stroke initiative, raising awareness and funds for fellow Australians to recover from stroke. Listen to this episode of The Wire, to understand the warning signs, symptoms, and the importance of being proactive with Robert Vander Kraats MACP– physiotherapist and stroke survivor: https://lnkd.in/gavSAV2W

Did you know that nine out of ten Australians living with osteoarthritis could save billions of taxpayer dollars by opting for targeted exercise programs? As knee replacement costs are forecasted to reach $5.32 billion by 2030, it is apparent that other effective and efficient conservative management approaches should be considered. ‘At the moment, the total knee and hip joint replacements are on a trajectory to get out of hand.’ Says APA National President, Scott Willis. ‘I think there is an appetite for funders and governments to look at alternative models and different pathways that patients might actually go through; one, to give them better health outcomes, but also make it more efficient, more cost-effective, and provide a better pathway for patients.’ Investing in effective physiotherapy for osteoarthritis, back pain, and fall prevention can significantly reduce long-term costs, improve patient quality of life, enhance productivity, and prevent unnecessary hospitalisations, ensuring a more efficient and impactful healthcare system. Understand the need for more physio-led programs and the APA's focus on changing the current Medicare funding system: https://bit.ly/497G6uZ.

Renewing your APA membership keeps you connected to a network of professionals and offers access to a range of evidence-based professional development opportunities. Be a voice for the profession, grow through career pathways and mentorship, and engage with research that shapes the future of physiotherapy. You’ll also have access to marketing resources aimed at promoting physiotherapy across Australia. Most importantly, your membership renewal means continued support from the APA. Let’s keep moving forward together - renew your 2025 APA membership today: https://lnkd.in/gZ6-hZeG

Refresh your paediatric spine knowledge with this article from the latest edition of InMotion! Dr Nicole Pates MACP, Dr Nikki Milne APAM, Dr Jenifer Dice and Anita Gross discuss five paediatric spinal conditions and consider the necessity of spinal manipulation and mobilisation. The Physiotherapy Research Foundation (PRF) has highlighted key messages from the 5 Facts article featured in the edition of InMotion and produced this infographic, with support from FlexEze Heat Wrap. Read on and get to know the do’s and don’ts of paediatric spinal conditions here: https://lnkd.in/geM7KBpX

Is your poo normal? Alexandra Lopes APAM, explains the common misconceptions and issues regarding gut health that are often disregarded. From smell to texture, the former APA Pelvic Health Group’s National chair advises on how to experience a healthy and regular bowel movement. Discover normalcy here: https://bit.ly/3CvgtIC (pg.7)

Is the future of physiotherapy more inclusive? Observing current physiotherapy students' attitudes, beliefs and learning preferences, Dr Megan Ross MACP and Calum Neish from The University of Queensland examined thoughts surrounding care and education regarding LGBTQIA+ community members, in this month's Journal of Physiotherapy. This study highlights the need to improve the current curriculum and incorporate more inclusive education, as many students resort to cis/heteronormative ideas without utilising a critical lens. Read more and understand the need to improve healthcare intersectionally: https://bit.ly/3YUnKJh.

Congratulations to Katharine Daniel APAM and the team at Mallee Border Health Centre for being a Stronger Medicare Awards 2024 winner! The Stronger Medicare Awards aim to recognise and honour healthcare professionals for their exceptional work and efforts. Being awarded for their innovative approaches to help improve the healthcare system, the team at Mallee Border Health Centre was appreciated for their dedication to their patients and community. Learn more about their work: https://bit.ly/3YWXAFJ/

Around 638,000 Australians were expected to be living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in 2022, resulting in approximately 53,000 hospitalisations. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with COPD, understand the role physiotherapy plays in this space: https://bit.ly/4ehsgaD Learn more and spread awareness with Lung Foundation Australia, today.

Could frailty cause dementia?   A recent study conducted by The University of Queensland has found a strong correlation between frailty and dementia risks.   The study suggests that exercise, a healthy diet, social connections, and better management of medicine could assist those experiencing frailty and reduce the risk of dementia.   Understand how Physiotherapy can help slow the risk of dementia and assist those experiencing frailty.   Check out Professor Keith Hill, Professor Ruth Hubbard and Dementia Australia advocate - Heather Cooper's Life Matters segment on Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) Radio National, as they discuss the study and explain its importance: https://ab.co/3UXuuVO.