If you have been diagnosed with arthritis and you have aches and pains in the joints your program is especially for you.

You may also attend if you are awaiting joint replacement surgery or have undergone replacement more than six months ago.

Therapeutic exercise helps decrease pain and increase function in arthritic joints by increasing muscle strength to support the joint.

A good understanding of the disease helps people make wise choices in the management of arthritis.

The aim of this program is to safely help you:

• Develop skills to manage your arthritis
• Increase your movement and strength
• Improve your posture
• Reduce and manage your pain.

The program is tailored to individual needs. Participants may be included in a group program which includes runs twice a week for seven weeks.

This includes individual and final assessments with a Physiotherapist and an Occupational Therapist.

Our knowledge of a broad range of community resources and facilities ensures that the transition from rehabilitation back to the community is as smooth and successful as possible, and that the patient continues to improve with the support you require.

Research has shown that by improving the strength and mobility of your body, back pain can be reduced and controlled.

We offer a multidisciplinary program designed to enhance quality of life by increasing the functional capacity of people who complain of low back pain or who have undergone spinal surgery.

The approach focuses on empowering people to manage their condition by improving core strength, flexibility and endurance.

Strategies are discussed to allow clients to manage their pain more effectively and participate in The Multi Disciplinary Back Care program at Lady Davidson Private Hospital consists of three phases. a more active lifestyle are explored.

Phase 1 – Back to Basics:

Designed for patients that have had an acute episode of low back pain or who have had recent spinal surgery.

The initial visit will include an assessment by a Physiotherapist and an Occupational Therapist. The patient will then join a four week program which will consist of physiotherapy, functional training and hydrotherapy.

The sessions run twice a week. Participants will then be offered a position in phase two of the program.

Participants will be taught the skills to activate the deep stabilising muscles of the spine, thereby helping to support and protect the back.

Participants will be encouraged to begin a walking program during this period.

By increasing activity levels and confidence, participants will be better equipped to manage their low back pain.

Phase 2 – Better Backs:

Designed for patients 6-8 weeks post-surgery or people with more chronic or episodic back pain. This program incorporates a physiotherapy group exercise session, exercise physiology, hydrotherapy, Tai Chi (if requested) and multidisciplinary education with the aim of facilitating self-management of the back.

The following education components are included:

• Causes of back pain - Physiotherapist
• Coping with an acute attack of back pain – Physiotherapist
• Exercise programme for life – Exercise Physiologist
• Healthy eating habits – Dietician
• Manual Handling and activities of daily living – Occupational Therapist
• The structure and function of the spine - Physiotherapist
• The importance of activating the stabilising muscles – Physiotherapist
• The benefits of exercise – Exercise Physiologist.

The program runs twice a week for five weeks.

If patients would like to continue with a program that will optimise and maintain strength they are welcome to join phase three of the program.

Phase 3 – Strong Backs:

Is designed to allow people who have attended phase 2 continue with graded exercises.

This program consists of a physiotherapy exercise class, exercise physiology, hydrotherapy and Tai Chi.

Our knowledge of a broad range of community resources and facilities ensures that the transition from rehabilitation back to the community is as smooth and successful as possible, and that the patient continues to improve with the support they require.

This innovative program is specifically designed for those with a primary diagnosis of cancer.

The program will assist you and your family address the physical and psychological needs which may accompany the diagnosis of cancer and the resulting treatment, ensuring integration with oncological management and related treatment.

People who would benefit from this program are those who are:

• After radiotherapy to regain strength, mobility and stamina
• Post chemotherapy and require either improvement or maintenance of their physical well-being
• Those who are de-conditioned and want to re-establish their pre-treatment fitness

Benefits of the program:

• A network with other people who are also affected by cancer
• Increased capacity to return to work, sport or leisure pursuits
• Improved ability to socialise, travel and take holidays
• Improved cardiovascular fitness
• Improved knowledge and understanding of cancer
• Improved overall strength and endurance
• Improved self-esteem and overall quality of life
• Strategies for completing everyday tasks without excessive fatigue.

The Oncology/Cancer Team comprises:

• Clinical Pharmacists
• Dietitians
• Exercise Physiologists
• Occupational Therapists
• Physiotherapists
• Psychologist
• Rehabilitation Nurses
• Rehabilitation Specialists and Medical Officers
• Social Workers.

Program aims:

• Become part of a network with people also affected by cancer
• Develop strategies for completing everyday tasks without excessive fatigue or pain
• Improve capacity to return to work, sport or leisure pursuits
• Improve cardiovascular fitness, strength and endurance
• Improve self-esteem and overall quality of life
• Return to a meaningful and functional lifestyle with vitality and support.

Education

We incorporate both exercise and education into our program, to ensure that when you complete the program, you have the knowledge and confidence to facilitate a smooth transition back to an independent lifestyle.

Program format

The group program runs twice weekly for five weeks.

An individual program is offered when/where participants needs are unique and participation in a group program is not advised.

The day program may consist of education and exercise sessions. The duration of these sessions is determined by your physical ability and level of de-conditioning and is therefore tailored as required.

Our knowledge of a broad range of community resources and facilities ensures that the transition from rehabilitation back to the community is as smooth and successful as possible, and that the patient continues to improve with the support they require.

Cardiac rehabilitation at Lady Davidson is designed to educate, recondition and improve functional confidence with increased endurance for patients following cardiac pathology, or surgery. We offer a comprehensive rehabilitation service with a rehabilitation team that develops a tailored cardiac management plan tailored to your needs.

These goals include:

• maximising physical, psychological, and social recovery
• minimising the progression of coronary artery disease
• reducing risk factors and adopting a healthier lifestyle
• successful return to work, home and recreational activities

Our team consists of:

Members of our experienced multidisciplinary team include the following health professionals:

• Rehabilitation Physicians and Medical Officers
• Rehabilitation Nurses
• Physiotherapists
• Exercise Physiologists
• Clinical Pharmacist
• Occupational Therapists
• Psychologists
• Social Workers
• Discharge Planner
• Dieticians

The Program

Each patient is assessed individually, and a team of health professionals develop a rehabilitation plan according to the individual's particular needs.

The program includes:

• Exercises from our physiotherapists and exercise physiologists aimed at improving strength, function and mobility to enhance quality of life of individuals who have experienced a cardiac event
• Graded activity programs – to progressively increase general strength and endurance
• Education from our multi-disciplinary team about heart disease and eating for heart health
• Information about medication management

Access to Services

Access to the services listed above is available via referral. Your local GP, physician, surgeon, allied health professional will be able to assist you with obtaining a referral to a medical specialist who is accredited at the hospital and who can organise your admission.

To make a referral, please contact the Patient Intake Officer on 02 9488 0189 or via the eReferral portal.

Further Information for Health Professionals

Preparation for discharge from Lady Davidson Private Hospital begins at admission and, as appropriate, involves the patient’s family and friends, as well as any community services that are required. Our knowledge of a broad range of community resources and facilities ensures that the transition from rehabilitation back to the community is as smooth and successful as possible, and that the patient continues to improve with the support they need.

A Program specifically tailored for carers

We aim to help you:

• Assist with access to community services and resources
• Improve your back and general strength
• Learn correct manual handling skills
• Optimise your physical fitness
• Provide emotional support.

What is Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is due to a malfunction, abnormality or obstruction of the lymphatic system. This results in an accumulation of lymph fluid in the tissues.

Symptoms can include one or more of the following:

• Heaviness
• Pain/aching
• Skin changes
• Swelling (oedema).

Causes of lymphoedema can include:

• Injury/trauma
• Infection
• Genetic abnormalities
• Radiotherapy following treatment of cancer to the lymph nodes
• Surgical removal of lymph nodes.

Treatment of Lymphoedema

The goal of treatment is to decrease oedema, improve lymphatic drainage and soften areas of dense oedema.

This will increase mobility in the limb and relieve the associated symptoms of lymphoedema.

Treatment involves:

• Compression bandaging and garments (as appropriate)
• Exercise
• Manual Lymphatic Drainage massage
• Skin hygiene Lipoedema is also treated using the above techniques.

Lymphoedema Program

The program is managed by a team of health professionals with postgraduate training in the management of lymphoedema.

Initially, participants are assessed by the team and a tailored program is developed with the individual’s needs in mind.

The program may involve:

• Assessment of the patient with lymphoedema, including the
• Additional techniques eg. Kinesiotaping, vibration & bandaging alternatives are able to be employed
• Complex Physical Therapy
• Education on application and removal of compression garments
• Education to assist the understanding and management of the condition
• Individualised home programs
• Measurement and fitting of compression garments
• Physical and psychological impact of the condition
• Relaxation techniques
• Reviews and ongoing support.

Our knowledge of a broad range of community resources and facilities ensures that the transition from rehabilitation back to the community is as smooth and successful as possible, and that the patient continues to improve with the support they require.

Pelvic Floor and Continence Rehabilitation

Problems with continence do not just happen in women.

They are common in men too, affecting almost four million Australians.

Yet they are rarely spoken about - and often people do not seek assistance.

Many problems can be prevented, improved and even cured with the correct advice and treatment.

Lady Davidson Private Hospital has staff specially trained to assess and help you improve your individual condition.

Do you suffer with any of the conditions listed below?

• A strong urge to pass urine even when your bladder is not full?
• Difficulty starting and stopping the flow?
• Frequently need to go to the toilet day or night?
• Have difficulty controlling your bowels?
• The need to rush to the toilet – and maybe sometimes not make it?

If you answered yes to any of the above, or wish to find out how to prevent these problems occurring, contact the Day Therapy Hotline 9488 0169 for further information

Stroke and Non-Stroke

Our program is designed for patients who may have disabilities resulting from a neurological illness or injury, including stroke, Parkinson's disease and many other neurological conditions.

Our multidisciplinary team comprises of the following health professionals:

• Clinical Pharmacists
• Dietitians
• Exercise Physiologists
• Occupational Therapists
• Physiotherapists
• Psychologist
• Rehabilitation Nurses
• Rehabilitation Specialists and Medical Officers
• Social Workers.

You will be assessed by members of the team and an individual rehabilitation plan will be designed to meet your rehabilitation goals. The team may wish to meet with you and your family from time to time to discuss your progress and plans for the future.

Physiotherapy

A physiotherapist with specialist training in neurological conditions will facilitate your program. The following aspects of your function will be addressed to help you meet your potential:

• Bed mobility and transfers
• Walking and stair mobility
• Activities in lying, sitting and standing
• Balance training
• Reaching, grasping and manipulating everyday objects
• Flexibility and endurance training

Occupational therapy

Your occupational therapist will assess your ability and design a program that will help you return to your previous lifestyle. The following areas will be addressed:

• Cognitive (thinking) and memory retraining
• Driver education
• Functional movement
• Home management skills e.g. cooking, cleaning, shopping, etc
• Leisure skills
• Work related skills.

Speech pathology

For those patients who are experiencing difficulties with communication or swallowing , a Speech Pathologist will be involved with your rehabilitation program. A specialised treatment program will focus on:

• Cognitive (thinking) and memory retraining
• Establishing a reliable means of communication
• Reading and writing
• Safe swallowing techniques and food modification if required
• Speech clarity.

Dietician

You may be seen by the Dietician to ensure your nutritional needs are met and dietary intake is adequate.

Social Worker

Your Social Worker will assist in referring you to community support agencies that can provide services.

Psychologist

The psychologist may become involved in your program to assist you to adjust to your new level of abilities.

Our knowledge of a broad range of community resources and facilities ensures that the transition from rehabilitation back to the community is as smooth and successful as possible, and that the patient continues to improve with the support they require.

Pain is a vital protective mechanism of our body, indicating an unpleasant emotional and sensory experience associated with actual or potential damage. Unfortunately in 20% of the population, pain persists when there is no further injury occurring.

Research has not revealed why pain persists in this population but recent studies show anatomical and physiological changes in the pain system.

The pain system has become sensitised, meaning it is hyper vigilant and reacts to stimulus that is not normally painful. When persistent pain starts impacting on your everyday life, affecting sleep, recreation, domestic tasks and work, intervention is required.

Program aims

The Pain Rehabilitation Program teaches you self-management strategies that help decrease the impact of pain on your life, and gives you the confidence to engage with life in a more active and meaningful way.

The program may involve

• Education on pain management strategies
• Providing emotional support
• To gain the ability to integrate all these strategies into daily functional activities in the workplace and home.

What is involved?

Various programs are available and are tailored to meet your individual needs.

Our program has a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach and involves a team comprising of the following health professionals:

• Clinical Pharmacists
• Dietitians
• Exercise Physiologists
• Occupational Therapists
• Physiotherapists
• Psychologist
• Rehabilitation Nurses
• Rehabilitation Specialists and Medical Officers
• Social Workers.

The program involves both individual and group based sessions. Your program will be designed to utilise some of the activities below depending on your individual needs:

• Hydrotherapy
• Medication and sleep education
• Movement and posture re-education
• Relaxation
• Tai Chi.

Our knowledge of a broad range of community resources and facilities ensures that the transition from rehabilitation back to the community is as smooth and successful as possible, and that you manage your pain effectively and improve your quality of life.

Parkinson’s Disease is a common degenerative neurological condition and is caused by a deficiency of the chemical dopamine in the brain.

This results in difficulties with physical movement and muscle control. Symptoms vary, but posture, balance, thought, speech and mobility can be affected.

The Parkinson’s Program provides a comprehensive rehabilitation program including specialised assessment, therapy, education and counselling for clients and their families.

Program Outlines

This program is ideal for those newly diagnosed or wishing to increase their knowledge of Parkinson’s disease and it’s management. A multi-disciplinary approach addresses areas such as physical function, speech, swallowing and medications.

Group exercise classes, which are limited in participant numbers, are available both as land-based and in a hydrotherapy setting. These can be arranged as part of a day program or on a sessional basis.

PD Warrior at Lady Davidson Private Hospital - a licensed PD Warrior facility

Download information here

PD Warrior is an intensive exercise based program that incorporates both physical and cognitive activity for people with Parkinson’s disease. PD Warrior is supported by a growing body of evidence that shows that intensive, high-effort, complex exercise has the potential to improve Parkinson’s disease symptoms and quality of life. It is delivered by specially trained physiotherapists and is designed to be challenging and enjoyable.

Is an effective speech treatment for individuals with Parkinson disease (PD) and other neurological conditions.

LSVT LOUD, named for Mrs. Lee Silverman (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment – LSVT) was developed in 1987 and has been scientifically studied for nearly 20 years with funding support from the National Institute for Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) of the National Institutes of Health.

Published research data support improvements in vocal loudness, intonation, and voice quality for individuals with PD who received LSVT LOUD, with improvements maintained up to two years after treatment.

Recent research studies have also documented the effectiveness of this therapy in improving the common problems of disordered articulation, diminished facial expression and impaired swallowing.

Additionally, two brain imaging studies have documented evidence of positive changes in the brain following administration of the therapy.

LSVT LOUD improves vocal loudness by stimulating the muscles of the voice box (larynx) and speech mechanism through a systematic hierarchy of exercises.

Focused on a single goal “speak LOUD!” – the treatment improves respiratory, laryngeal and articulatory function to maximize speech intelligibility.

The treatment does not train people for shouting or yelling; rather, LSVT LOUD uses loudness training to bring the voice to an improved, healthy vocal loudness with no strain.

Please click on the following link for more information about LSVT LOUD

This program is specifically designed for individuals who have recently suffered an acute illness or have become de-conditioned following surgery and are having difficulty managing daily tasks.

Your rehabilitation team may include:

• Clinical Pharmacist
• Exercise Physiologist
• Occupational Therapist
• Physiotherapist
• Psychologist
• Social Worker
• Tai Chi Instructor.

Your program will be aimed at:

• Regaining optimum levels of independence
• Restoring mobility and fitness.

Our knowledge of a broad range of community resources and facilities ensures that the transition from rehabilitation back to the community is as smooth and successful as possible.

The program is designed for patients suffering from any airways d.isease to assist them in improving self-management techniques, increase exercise tolerance, and increase lung function.

Our objective is to minimise disability and restore people to an optimum level of functioning so that they can lead independent and rewarding lives.

People who will benefit from the cardio-respiratory rehabilitation program include patients who have :

• A recent decline in function at any level, with an identified need for medical stabilisation, chest physiotherapy, increased exercise tolerance or improved energy conservation techniques
• Frequent acute exacerbations of their illness or chest infections
• Long-standing lung disease such as emphysema, chronic asthma or pulmonary fibrosis.

What does the program involve?

The program aims at assisting participants to better manage their cardio-respiratory condition so they may lead more active and pleasurable lives.

A thorough assessment of factors such as health and lifestyle, exercise tolerance, depression and anxiety, use of medications and nutritional status is performed at the beginning of the program and again on completion to ascertain improvements.

Your rehabilitation team may include:

• Clinical Pharmacist
• Exercise Physiologist
• Occupational Therapist
• Physiotherapist
• Psychologist
• Social Worker
• Tai Chi Instructor.

Our knowledge of a broad range of community resources and facilities ensures that the transition from rehabilitation back to the community is as smooth and successful as possible.

Problems with continence are common, affecting almost four million Australians.

Although the prevalence of these conditions increases with age, adults may be affected at any stage of their life.

This can have a significant impact on a person’s physical and psychological functioning.

Many problems can be prevented, treated and even cured with the right advice and intervention.

Specially trained staff are able to provide evidence-based treatment of pelvic floor related disorders and symptoms of incontinence.

Conditions treated include:

• Anyone wishing to prevent pelvic floor and continence problem
• Faecal incontinence
• Frequency
• Nocturia
• Overactive Bladder (OAB) / Urge incontinence
• Pelvic floor weakness
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse
• Stress Urinary Incontinence.

Along with addressing the above problems, the multi-disciplinary health care team can also assist with closely related issues, including fitness, diet, mobility, self-care, and social support.

In 1989 in response to a group of patient with chronic wounds a Wound Management Clinic was established.

The clinic provides high quality assessment ,treatment and education for people with wounds resulting from either surgery, trauma, diabetes, vascular disease or cancer.

The intensive program has achieved remarkable results for people with wounds which have previously not responded to treatment.

Before attending the clinic these people had been suffering pain and distress for months and in some cases years.

Detailed, accurate assessment:

Because we believe accurate diagnosis is vital for a successful treatment, each patient is thoroughly assessed by our multidisciplinary team skilled in taking a medical and clinical history, photographing, tracing and documenting the wound.

The assessment process may involve:

• A medical and clinical history
• Blood tests
• Microbiological examinations
• On-site investigations which involve both venous and arterial studies including duplex ultrasound assessment , venography and arteriography.

Your multidisciplinary team includes:

• Allied Health Personnel to cater for all aspects of support and service.
• Dr Vik Puttaswamy, is a Vascular Surgeon who trained in general surgery for nine years at Prince of Wales Hospital, then completed three years of Vascular Surgery Fellowship training at Royal North Shore, Royal Melbourne, and Westmead Hospitals. He is now appointed as Head of Department and Visiting Medical Officer to Royal North Shore and Hornsby Hospitals performing major aortic, carotid and venous surgery. He also operates for venous access, renal access and renal transplantation. Dr Puttaswamy has expertise in minimally invasive endovascular surgery with stenting of aortic aneurysms and for lower limb pain, and ulcers.
• Registered Nurses (wound care).

Within the clinic we foster a friendly, supportive environment where participants are encouraged to learn about their wounds, take an active in their care.

Making a referral

We accept referrals from both health professionals and the general public. To make a referral simply phone 02 9488 0257