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Understanding Intoeing in Children: Should You Be Concerned?

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Intoeing , or “pigeon-toeing” is a common paediatric presentation where the feet turn inward rather than pointing straight ahead. This can be noticed when standing, walking or running and can sometimes cause tripping and clumsiness. As parents, it’s natural to worry when you notice your child’s feet don’t look the way you expect them to, but in most cases, intoeing is completely normal and often resolves without intervention as a child ages.    What Causes Intoeing? When a baby is in the womb, they are all bundled up which influences the torsion (twist) in the bones. As babies grow, the bones begin to unwind. This is the reason why feet turning in is more common in babies, shins turning in is more common in toddlers and hips/thigh bones turning in is more common in preschoolers or primary school children.    There are three main reasons a child may have intoeing: Metatarsus Adductus : This occurs when the front part of the foot curves inward, typically occu...

The Role of Physiotherapy in Preventing Chronic Diseases

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Imagine this: you’ve just finished your morning walk without any knee pain for the first time in months. You’re not recovering from surgery—you’re preventing the need for one.  Physiotherapy isn’t just for injury recovery; it plays a pivotal role in helping people prevent chronic diseases and maintain long-term well-being. At Hub and Spoke Health, we help people stay stronger, move better, and age well.   What Are Chronic Diseases and Why Prevention Matters Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, and chronic respiratory conditions are among the most common and costly health conditions in Australia. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, these diseases account for 87% of deaths in the country. But many are preventable, especially when physical inactivity is addressed early. Movement is medicine. Staying active helps manage weight, reduce blood pressure, stabilise blood sugar, and support joint health—all crit...

The Benefits of Mobile Remedial Massage After Surgery

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Coming home after surgery can feel like both a relief and a challenge. You’re finally out of the hospital, but the journey to full recovery is just beginning. Mobility is limited, your body is healing, and attending clinic appointments might not feel like the best option. That’s where mobile remedial massage comes in—offering professional, tailored support right in the comfort of your home. At Hub and Spoke Health , we provide mobile remedial massage designed to support your recovery in those critical post-operative weeks. Here’s how this simple, in-home service can make a big impact.   Why Massage Matters After Surgery After surgery, the body enters a complex healing process. You may experience swelling, muscle stiffness, joint discomfort, and general fatigue. These symptoms can slow down recovery if left unaddressed. Remedial massage offers a gentle, supportive way to encourage healing without putting extra stress on your body. Massage therapy has been shown to help with: ...

Are you experiencing Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness?

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As a Physiotherapist, I often work with clients who report muscle soreness following new or intense physical activity. This condition, referred to as Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) can be quite uncomfortable and may temporarily hinder your ability to carry out everyday tasks. In this blog post, I will provide a thorough explanation of DOMS, including its causes, contributing factors, and effective strategies for managing and preventing it.   What is DOMS? DOMS occurs when muscles are subjected to unaccustomed or strenuous activity. This soreness typically begins 12-24 hours post-activity and tends to peak between 24-72 hours post-activity. DOMS generally resolves within 3-5 days. It differs from immediate or acute pain, which is felt during the exercise itself. Acute pain is usually not related to DOMS and may instead indicate issues with exercise technique, such as poor form which causes excessive strain on muscles or joints. Chronic pain, on the other hand, persists ov...

The New Support at Home Program: What You Need to Know

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At Hub and Spoke Health, we are committed to keeping our clients and their families informed about changes in the aged care sector. One of the biggest upcoming changes is the introduction of the Support at Home Program , set to begin on 1 July 2025 . This program will replace existing in-home aged care services, including Home Care Packages (HCP) and the Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Programme , with the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) transitioning by July 2027 .   Why the Change? The goal of the Support at Home Program is to enhance support for older Australians, enabling them to live independently at home for as long as possible. This streamlined program will provide simpler access, improved service coordination, and fairer funding models .   Key Features of the Support at Home Program   1. New Assessment & Classification System A Single Assessment System will determine eligibility and funding levels. Participants will be classified int...

Advantages Of Home-Based Physiotherapy For Knee Injury Rehabilitation

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Have you ever felt the frustration of recovering from a knee injury while juggling time constraints and busy schedules? The path to recovery can often feel overwhelming, but what if there was a way to make it more manageable and effective right from the comfort of your own home? The recovery from a knee injury is a journey that many people embark on, whether from sports, accidents, or everyday wear and tear. Traditionally, physiotherapy has been confined to clinics and hospitals, often requiring patients to travel for sessions amidst their already hectic lives. However, with advances in technology and an increased focus on personalised care, home-based physiotherapy is rapidly gaining traction as an efficient alternative. Not only does home-based physiotherapy offer greater convenience, but it can also provide tailored treatments that cater specifically to your individual needs, all while ensuring a comfortable and stress-free environment.   Common knee injuries Knee injurie...

Understanding W-Sitting in Kids: What’s Normal and When to Be Concerned

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W-sitting often raises concerns among parents, teachers, and even social media discussions. The message you often hear is, “W-sitting is bad!” But is it really? Here’s a look at what the research says and when it’s time to worry. What is W-Sitting? W-sitting is when children sit on the floor with their knees bent, legs splayed outward, and feet behind them in a “W” shape. This position is common among preschoolers and often preferred because it provides a stable base of support. Contrary to some myths, W-sitting does not : Affect hip bone shape or cause hip dysplasia. Lead to arthritis or degenerative joint issues. Cause intoeing or delays in motor development. *** In typically developing children Why Do Kids W-Sit? Most kids W-sit because their hip structure allows it to be comfortable. Young children have naturally increased hip rotation (femoral anteversion), which tends to decrease as they grow. Femoral anteversion is NOT a structural abnormality or a deformity. It is a ...

Physiotherapy as an alternative to joint replacement surgery

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Are you facing the prospect of joint replacement surgery but feeling uncertain about the long-term implications? Have you considered that there may be a less invasive option that could relieve your pain and restore your mobility? In an age where medical advancements abound, the thought of undergoing major surgery can be daunting. With rising healthcare costs and a desire for more natural recovery methods, many patients are seeking alternatives to traditional surgical approaches. Joint replacement surgeries are often seen as the go-to solution for chronic joint pain, but they come with their own set of risks and challenges—from lengthy recovery times to potential complications. Fortunately, physiotherapy has emerged as a viable alternative for those grappling with joint issues. By focusing on rehabilitation through targeted exercises, manual therapies, and pain management techniques, physiotherapy addresses the root causes of discomfort and improves joint function without the need f...

How physiotherapy can support loved ones experiencing dementia?

Caring for someone with dementia and those experiencing dementia can be a challenging and emotional process. Understanding the role of a physiotherapist in this process can be vital in providing support for carers and individuals living with dementia. In this post we’ll explore how physiotherapists can enhance the wellbeing and quality of life of those affected by this condition. Understanding dementia Dementia is an umbrella term that describes the loss of various thinking abilities that significantly affect a person’s ability to navigate their daily life. Common symptoms include memory loss, confusion, consternation and behavioral changes. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms and can vary in severity which may progress over time. Diagnosis does require a careful examination of their medical history and consultations with healthcare professionals. Role of physiotherapy Physiotherapists are integral to the care of individuals living w...

The Benefits Of Home-Based Physiotherapy For The Elderly And Injured

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Have you ever considered how a few simple home adjustments could significantly improve the well-being of the elderly or those recovering from injuries? As our loved ones age or as we face physical challenges ourselves, traditional physiotherapy can often feel out of reach. With busy schedules and transportation barriers, many lack access to vital rehabilitation services. Home-based physiotherapy is emerging as a transformative solution, tailored to meet the specific needs of patients in the comfort of their environment. Engaging a physiotherapist at home opens up a world of benefits, from personalised care plans that cater to individual recovery needs to the emotional comfort of a familiar environment. It enhances motivation and compliance and fosters meaningful relationships between carers and patients, leading to more effective therapy outcomes.    The role of home-based physiotherapy in aged care Home-based physiotherapy plays a crucial role in aged care by providing ...

Preparing for Total Hip Replacement

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If you’re preparing for a total hip replacement, taking steps to strengthen and prepare your body can make a big difference in your recovery. It is important to be educated about what you can do pre surgery and immediately after to ensure the best outcomes for your hip replacement. Before Surgery: The Power of Prehab Prehabilitation (prehab) is all about building strength and mobility to support your new hip. Engaging in prehab exercises can improve muscle tone, flexibility, and circulation, helping you return to normal activities faster post-surgery. Focus on exercises that target your glutes, quads, and core, as these will stabilize your hip and make post-op movements easier. Practicing specific moves beforehand, like standing on one leg and gentle stretching, can also help you feel more confident after surgery. Starting this at least six weeks prior to surgery will be the best first step. Immediately Post-Surgery: What to Expect After surgery, you may feel stiff or sore around ...

The Hidden Dangers Of A Sedentary Lifestyle: How Lack Of Physical Activity Affects Your Health

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Have you ever caught yourself binge-watching your favourite series or scrolling through social media for hours on end? While these moments may seem harmless, they could be putting your health at serious risk. What if the comfort of your couch was a ticking time bomb for your well-being? In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, many of us find ourselves leading increasingly sedentary lifestyles. With the rise of remote work and entertainment options beckoning us to stay indoors, sitting has become our go-to activity. Yet, behind this convenient façade lies a multitude of health concerns that are often overlooked. From increased risk of chronic diseases to mental health challenges, the consequences of minimal movement can be profound. Understanding the hidden dangers of a sedentary lifestyle is crucial for your overall well-being. It’s not just about weight gain; it’s about recognising how a lack of physical activity can disrupt your health in various ways.    7 hidde...