Contents - 3 minute read:

• Inform - How to make the most of your doctor appointments and make the best choice for you

• Educate - How to use the wall to perfect your balance - exercise tips

• Motivate - Meet 2 ladies challenging themselves and inspiring others

• Celebrate - World Physiotherapy Day - how physiotherapists can ensure you are your best self

We have all done it - Gone for an important appointment then left without asking the key questions to help you make an informed decision. Visiting your doctor or healthcare provider, may involve you making some decisions about your healthcare. How do you get all the information you need in that one interaction? 😄 We have got you covered . Choosing Wisely UK , suggest that you use the acronym BRAN to ensure you make the most of your interaction.

• Benefits - Listen to your healthcare provider and be clear that you know what will be the likely outcome of the proposed treatment. Make sure that you are speaking each other’s language. Your goal might be to order a power wheelchair to give you independence only to find it is too heavy for your or your family to get into the car, which limits your options. State what you are expecting of the treatment and check you are aligned. A question such as, “What can I expect to gain from treatment.” is a good starting point.

• Risks - It is always prudent to ascertain any risks involved with treatment or any aftercare. You may need time off work. You may need to work hard on an exercise regime following an operation or you may have side effects from medication. Going in with your eyes wide open is always the best option. Questions such as, “Are there any downsides to this decision?” can really help clarify the situation in your own mind

• Alternatives - Finding out if there is another route to your desired outcome will really help you with decision making. Do you have to take this action now? Is there a more timely intervention? What are my non surgical options? These are all good questions to ask. You may think you have to resign yourself to surgery when actually a strengthening regime may be a first line treatment option.

• Nothing - What if I choose not to take your advice? You might be able to delay making a choice if you have a life event you would like to enjoy first. On the other hand , the outcome may be affected if you don’t act quickly. Knowing how urgent the situation is can ensure you make the right choice for you.

Try using BRAN at your next appointment and see if you leave better informed. It can also pay to be prepared. Write your questions before you go or take a family member or trusted friend to help make the most of your interaction. If you would like to read more about decision making, see the link below :

We all need some inspiration and I would like to share with you 2 instagram accounts that detail 2 ladies who are challenging themselves and are an inspiration to others. Their feats demonstrate you can build muscle and get stronger and fitter whatever your age.

Meet Betty who will be 84 this month. She has been active for many years despite knee reconstruction surgery in 2018. She demonstrates that you can feel at home in the gym no matter your age 😃 

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View more on Instagram

Meet 92 year old Mathea Allansmith who is the oldest woman to finish a marathon. Well done to her, no wonder she is smiling

September 8th is World Physiotherapy Day. Physiotherapists all over the world come together to celebrate the impact that the profession has on keeping people active and living their best life. Most people think of the football physio running on the pitch on a Saturday football match with the magic spray but physiotherapy comes in all shapes and sizes. Physiotherapists are involved in rehabilitation such as after strokes or heart attacks, they also work to keep you healthy such as designing fitness regimes for professional sports people. Physiotherapists can be involved in bladder training, chronic pain, chest care for premature babies and helping pregnant mums prepare for labour. If you haven’t met a physiotherapist yet, chances are you will do at some point.

Physiotherapy fun facts

• Physiotherapy has been mentinoned as far back as 460BC when Hippocrates detailed using water therapy to treat patients

• Physiotherapists can also treat the brain through physical activities such as mirror therapy or education to improve cognition and mood

• Physiotherapists always give homework. Although they work hard to help you improve, they expect you to commit to playing your part too. It might be spending time relaxing to reduce stress, getting your sleep pattern in check or doing strengthening work at home

• You may see a physiotherapist before you have surgery. Getting you fit and in optimum shape can enhance your recovery time. It is not unusual to visit the physiotherapist before bladder surgery, joint surgery or starting cancer treatment.

Are you active and would like to feature here? We would love to hear from you! Get in touch, preferably with a picture so we can celebrate and promote you living your best life. Just reply to this newsletter