Last year, Apple announced it is working with a select number of companies ... in 2 sizes, A5 and A6, which resemble the
Allied ISSUE 4
FIT FOR THE FUTURE With Marijn Kortekaas PROGRAM DIRECTOR for PHYSITRACK
Lorriane Barwick HOW SHE BUILT HER EMPIRE
Don't Be Bone Idle Experts launch assessment tool to help curb bone fractures
TEXT NECK
ARE DIGITAL DEVICES CAUSING US HARM?
Allied Health Marketing has been busy working with Allied Health practices throughout Australia and have a passion for creating fun, informative and eye catching websites, logos, branding and marketing material.
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DR. MICHAEL BLOOM HAPPY CHIRO
With many individuals experiencing increased levels of stress, large periods of time sitting and imperfect dietary habits, sadly there are overall declining health levels in our country. Michael’s focus is on health promotion and corrective spinal care to not only address any symptomatic concerns, but to help individuals experience a healthier and happier life.
VERONICA & PEDRO HEALTH PLACE OWNERS
Pedro has travelled the world with his profession and has worked with Cirque Du Soleil, European soccer teams as well as the Broncos, the Wallabies, the Queensland Ballet, the Queensland Reds, and more. Veronica was a performer with Cirque Du Soleil’s show Quidam from 2005-2009 and is in the Gymnastics Australia Hall of Fame for placing 2nd overall at the 2004 Sports Acrobatics World championships.
s r o t u b i r t n o c 4 e u s is LORRAINE BARWICK EXERCISE PHSYIOLOGIST AUTHOR OF STAND UP HEALTH
Lorraine is passionate about health, winning AEP of the year in 2015 and starting her own busniess, ‘Stand Up Health’. She is ardent about getting people to spend more time on their feet and to get them moving for a healthier, happier life.
SHELLEY JUDGE MPH NUTRITIONIST BLOGGER FOOD REV AMBASSADOR
Passionate foodie, amateur photographer and nutrition nut! Shelley studied a Bachelor of Food Science and Nutrition at The University of Queensland and is currently furthering her study with a Masters in Public Health Nutrition. Shelley is also a Food Revolution Ambassador for the Jamie Oliver Food Revolution.
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Fearlessness is like a muscle. I know from my own life that the more I exercise it the more natural it becomes to not let my fears run me. - ARIANNA HUFFINGTON
WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE?
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TEXT NECK DR. MICHAEL BLOOM OF HAPPY CHIRO
30 MEMO BOTTLE FOUNDERS INTERVIEW
32 COREY’S STORY COREY DE- GREGORIO IS AN INSPIRATIONAL TEN YEAR OLD
DONT BE BONE IDLE
EXPERTS LAUNCH A NEW BONE ASSESSMENT APP
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STRIVE FOR SUCCESS INTERVIEW WITH LORRAINE BARWICK
FIT FOR THE FUTURE WE SAT DOWN WITH MARIJN KORTEKAAS FROM PHYSITRACK
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ou know the saying, from little things big things grow? Well here you are looking at it. Allied Magazine is almost reaching its one year anniversary and I still wonder where the time went. When I started in this industry, the passion I kept seeing time and time again was phenomenal. Allied health practitioners have such a zest for life and an abundant amount of energy that wants to help change people lives, and that is what I wanted to share. I wanted to share inspiring stories of those out in the industry who are living their dreams. Issue four has been very reflective for me. Thinking back to where we started, what we have achieved and where we are headed is something that I need to do more. I get so caught up in the day to day running of the magazine that I sometimes miss the small achievements and milestones that are really important. I recently read Ariana Huffington’s book, Thrive. Well worth the read for anyone who is busy running and growing their
business. Ariana talks about the moment that made her stop, regroup and reflect on what she classified as success. What is ‘success’? It means something different to everyone and it is important to know what it looks like for you. For me, success is creating a community of professionals and like minded individuals who are passionate about health and wellness and want to see the industry, as a whole, progress. This issue is packed full of articles and stories that are sure to inspire you and help you figure out what your success looks like. I wish you success and happiness in whatever you are doing - and never stop dreaming.
Chris McCarroll Founder Allied Magazine CONNECT WITH CHRIS @alliedmagazine www.alliedmagazine.com
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Allied MAGAZINE
We are proud to bring you Allied. A magazine for those involved in the allied health industry who want to share stories of business success.
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We want to bring you the latest trends, news and interviews that will empower health professionals to reach even more of the general public.
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CONTRIBUTORS Shelley Judge Lorraine Barwick Michael Bloom Marijn Kortekaas
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CONNECT @alliedmagazine
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TEXT NECK? Dr. Michael Bloom of Happy Chiro in Malvern, Victoria talks about “Text Neck”, an emerging spinal problem caused by the heavy use of mobile devices and he offers some tips to improve this slouched posture.
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t is entirely possible that the term ‘Text Neck’ will become an official diagnosis in the future. Let’s look at some of the implications of the current trend of the heavy use of mobile devices, long periods of sitting, and a reliance on laptops and computers.
Firstly, to reminisce a little... I recall my mother repeatedly telling me as I was completing my high school years that it was vital I study hard and go to university so that I created a lifestyle for myself that didn’t use my skeleton in highly physical ways. With respect to trades people and other manual workers, my mum’s words were: “Don’t end up doing hard physical work because your body will be full of aches and pains and you will fall apart.” Fast forward 20 something years and the irony is that the more physically active we are, the better it is for our health. Conversely, the more sedentary we are, the worse it is for our health. Perhaps in the 1990’s, as the internet was just evolving, there was no way of predicting the impact that modern technology would have on our health. Personally, I never really noticed so much forward head posture and slouched spine as I do now. Neck pain, headaches, shoulder pain and concerns about posture are far more a part of what we regularly see in our chiropractic offices nowadays. Other than the visual effect of a head forward posture, let’s look into the health implications.
In a study published in the American Journal of Geriatrics titled “Hyperkyphotic posture predicts mortality in older community-dwelling men and women: a prospective study”, the results linked a forward head posture with an increased risk of death related to atherosclerosis. I found it very intriguing that posture can be associated with systemic health issues. The link between posture and disease in part is due to the loss of normal spine movement and therefore a change in brain stimulation due to the postural issues. Of course, aside from the depressing thought that poor posture can increase risk of disease, it also often leads to pain, stiffness and other musculoskeletal symptoms. But there is hope. As with all health conditions, healing is possible. Key strategies to implement to improve slouched posture and forward head posture are as follows: 1. Firstly, understand what correct posture looks like so there is a goal to work towards is vital. When viewed from the side, certain landmarks should be located in a vertical line. Middle ear, mid shoulder, hip joint (Trochanter), midline of knee, lateral malleolus (mid ankle). 2. Strengthening the correct muscles. As most people have postural distortion leading to head forward and shoulder
“Sitting is to the spine, what sugar is to the teeth”
rounded, this results in a shortening/ contraction of the muscles forward of the midline (flexor muscles). It also means that the muscles behind the midline (Extensor muscles) are usually weak and under active. Common exercises that strengthen the extensor muscles are rowing, lat pull downs and plank. Also, it is great to do extensor toning using a resistance band. 3. Stretching the correct muscles. Pectoral stretches using a doorway to stretch the pecs. Lying on a foam roller or postural correction aid for 5-10 minutes per day. Stretching the hamstrings. 4. Developing a cue that works for you to remind you on a regular basis to move to the correct posture. What I personally like to use is the analogy that there is a strong helium balloon attached to the top of your head and front of your sternum. The balloon is pulling you skywards. 5. Spend less time on devices or seated at the desk. If your work is desk bound, then set regular break intervals. At least every hour, you should get up from your desk, perform shoulder shrugs and rolls. Move your neck sideways, ears towards the shoulders. Rotate your head so the neck gets some nice twist motion. 6. Movement is KEY. If the joints of the neck and upper spine are immobile, it makes it very difficult to achieve great postural improvement. Embarking on a course of chiropractic care to improve joint mechanics is a vital part of the improvement cycle. Especially useful are rib adjustments as they help encourage a better centre of gravity as well as greater oxygenation. As I have seen fantastic results in posture correction through my chiropractic experiences, I am as enthusiastic as ever to educate people about the importance of healthy posture, and to encourage people to dedicate resources, time and effort towards improving their posture. After all, better posture means better health.
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HEALTHY MARKETING
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COMPETITION
TIME TO GET SNAPPY!
MORNINGS MADE BY FRESSKO We’re working with Made by Fressko to offer one lucky winner a Fressko Rise 300mL Flask
HOW TO ENTER Simply upload your favourite beverage using tag #morningsmadebyfressko to Instagram and follow @alliedmagazine and @madebyfressko_official
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NEXT ISSUE SNEAK PEEK WITH R AW E S S E N T I A L S
#askwhy #askwhy
The Womens Health Collective (WHC) is a platform that brings together women’s health clinicians The Womens Health Collective (WHC) is a platform that brings together women’s from all areas of allied health, midwifery, and psychology. Open to all who want to learn more, #askhealth clinicians from areas ofwithin allied health, midwifery, network and psychology. Open to whyalland work an interdisciplinary
all who want to learn more, #askwhy and work within an interdisciplinary network. We work better together…
We women’s work better together… As a health professional working with health you should be aware of other clinicians practice, what they do, how they treat and how you together. As a health professional working with women’s health youwork should be aware of other Comeclinicians join WHC and get to know your local health networks, improve your clinicial knowledge, practice, what they do, how they treat and how you work together. referrals and better yournetworks, patients’ outcomes. Come join WHCincrease and getyour to know your local health improve your clinicial knowledge, increase your referrals and better your patients’ outcomes.
Learn more, #askwhy... The WHC offers education courses, workshops and e-books for clinicians working in women’s health– Learn more, #askwhy... online and face to face. We run FREE monthly meets in BNE, SYD and MEL, to facilitate interdisciplinThe WHC offers education courses, workshops for clinicians working ary learning. Come and join e-books us!
in women’s health– online and face to face. We run FREE monthly meets in BNE, SYD and MEL, to facilitate interdisciplinary learning. Come join us!
@thewomenshealthcollective @the_whc www
thewomenshealthcollective.com
RECIPE
Roast Pumpkin Hummus
Recipe By Shelley Judge
INGREDIENTS 4 cloves garlic 500g pumpkin 1 can (400g) chickpeas 1/3 cup olive oil + 1 tbsp for roasting 1tbsp tahini 1/2 tsp cumin, ground 1tsp smoked paprika 1tbsp lemon juice salt and pepper METHOD Peel the pumpkin and then cut into 1 inch cubes. Place on a lined baking tray with the garlic cloves. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil over the pumpkin and season with salt and pepper. Roast in a hot oven (200c) for 20mins or until soft. Remove from oven and allow to cool. Meanwhile drain the chickpeas and place in a small saucepan and cover with water. Boil chickpeas for 15mins. Drain and allow to cool slightly. In the food processor, place chickpeas, garlic cloves, pumpkin and blitz until smooth. Then add in remaining ingredients and blend until thick and creamy. Place into a dish and serve with crispy pita chips, or store in an airtight container and store for up to 5 days.
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COREY’S STORY An amazing recovery for one strong boy...
C
orey de Gregorio is ten years old and his Cerebral Palsy (CP) means that his mobility is severely limited. Corey has spent most of his time in a wheelchair, with a weak torso and severely stiff muscles (spasticity) in his legs. This meant a future of ongoing support and potential invasive operations to help Corey live day-to-day. Three years ago, Corey and his dad Mark travelled to Brisbane to meet with Chad Timmermans, a Neuro-Developmental therapist, Sport & Exercise Psychologist and Exercise Physiologist who specialises in working with children with CP and their families. Corey participated in one of Chad’s Intensive Programs - to help change the form of muscle system that is used for movement and physical function. Chad utilised two life-changing therapies - the Therasuit and Power Plate whole body vibration training. Since his first Intensive, Corey can now crawl, walk with quad sticks (all the way to the end of his long driveway!), and sit without support. He has developed arches in his feet where he previously
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had none, meaning his mobility is improved and his independence is growing. In fact, Corey was due to have major surgery on his legs in 2015 to relocate his hamstring and calf muscles. This surgery would have meant a long recovery time and intensive follow up therapy, and while some children who undergo this procedure have better comfort, it is not guaranteed. However after participating in Chad’s programs, Corey’s surgery has been placed on the backburner as he continues to make astonishing progress with Chad. Mark and Corey both know they have a long way to go – as Corey gets older they are faced with new challenges and they are currently working on building Corey’s independence as well as his movement. But with a smile on his face, Corey is doing his ‘homework’ on the Power Plate every day and continuing to defy the critics as his quality of life continues to improve.
WE WILL CONTINUE TO FOLLOW COREY ON HIS JOURNEY
The Essential Link for Nutrition Leaders dietitianconnection.com The Essential Link for Nutrition Leaders dietitianconnection.com
@DietitianConnection @DietitianConnection @dietitianconnection @dietitianconnection
ask yourself if what you are doing today is getting you closer to where you want to be
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RECIPE
Bircher Parfaits Recipe By Shelley Judge (serves 4)
INGREDIENTS 1.5 cups oats 2tbsp cup chia seeds 1/2 cup buckwheat groats 1/2 cup pepitas 1/4 cup goji berries 1/2 cup coconut flakes 500mL coconut water Juice of 1 orange 2 tsp vanilla 2 tsp cinnamon 1 cup yoghurt your choice of fresh fruit METHOD In a large container, mix oats, chia seeds, buckwheat, pepitas, goji berries, coconut flakes. Then stir through coconut water, orange juice, vanilla and cinnamon. Cover container and place in fridge overnight! In the morning spoon out 3/4 cup for each serve into a bowl or glass. Then top with yoghurt and fresh fruit!
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FIT FOR THE FUTURE HOW TECHNOLOGY TRANSFORMS HEALTHCARE AND IMPROVES THE CLIENT EXPERIENCE In today’s world where 85% of Australian consumers own a smartphone, anything from arranging transportation (Uber) to booking accommodation (Airbnb) is done via our prized mobile devices. Given how mobile-centric our lives have become, why is it that when it comes to prescribing home exercises to clients, many healthcare professionals still revert to the trusted stick figures or photocopied sheets? What if technology could give practitioners the tools to not only help them save time and improve outcomes, but also offer clients a superior experience. A new generation of digital healthcare apps is precisely doing this. We sat down with Marijn Kortekaas from Physitrack, one of these app developers, to find out more about the world of digital therapeutics.
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Tell us a bit about yourself. I am Marijn Kortekaas, one of the Partners and Program Director for Physitrack in Australia. Physitrack is a mobile healthcare provider that specialises in exercise prescription and outcomes analysis technology for physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, podiatrists, chiropractors and other healthcare providers. We are the official technology partner of the APA, ESSA and CAA and are used by over 7,000 practitioners with 250,000+ patients around the world.
How did Physitrack come about? Back in 2011, a relative of one of our co-founders was given an unclear home exercise program on a piece of paper after a knee operation. The last thing he felt like after his operation was trying to work out how to complete his exercises. Our two co-founders, Henrik Molin and Nathan Skwortsow got together and Physitrack was born a year later.
Give us a quick rundown of how Physitrack works. Practitioners choose from over 3,000 clinical exercise videos in Ultra HD to create and prescribe exercise programs and outcome measures to their clients. Clients complete their prescribed exercises via the free PhysiApp client app and report back on their adherence, pain levels/RPE/HR Max and outcome measures. This gives practitioners real-time insight into their clients’ progress, understand where clients need more support, and how they can optimise treatment plans. Hospital administrators and large clinic owners can use Physitrack’s analysis tool ‘PhysiData’ to do what is best described as clinical studies with real-time patient data from a client’s own ecosystem – it uses the same methodology that we see in sample-based clinical studies to actually predict recovery times for the set of conditions that are treated by the client’s practitioners and to benchmark actively rehabilitating patients with the predictions. It’s a health check and a financial planning tool that we tailor for the specific needs of our clients.
a select number of companies including Physitrack, which is something we are very proud of. Their support has meant that practitioners can literally prescribe exercise programs in seconds and track client outcomes in real-time. This not only simplifies clinical usage, but also has a dramatically positive effect on the client experience.
What challenges have you seen in the uptake of new technology? As with anything, change is never easy, in particular, when in healthcare caseloads are sky-high and spare time is scarce. In Australia however, we are extremely fortunate to have some of the most forward-thinking and innovative practitioners around who are quick to adopt new technology.
Where do you see the future of digital healthcare? Aging populations, increasing sedentary lifestyles and budget cuts in public healthcare systems mean the delivery of healthcare needs to become a lot smarter and more efficient. The great news is that a lot of the technology to achieve this already exists. Key is to make sure that different technologies and systems talk to each other. Outcome data being generated in real-time and analysed with proven statistical methodology can then be turned into real improvements towards a sustainable healthcare system.
What is your mantra at Physitrack? Everything we do at Physitrack revolves around three key areas: content, usability and outcomes. For example, our 3,000 clinical exercise videos were created with APA physiotherapists and universities around the world. The depth and quality of our library, and the fact that all our videos are professionally narrated, make a huge difference in giving patients the confidence to do their exercises correctly.
How important was usability when you developed your apps?
CONNECT WITH PHYSITRACK @physitrack_au http://www.physitrack.com
Extremely important. Practitioners only have a few minutes to create an exercise program, so this process needed to be fast and intuitive. Last year, Apple announced it is working with
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RECIPE
VEGAN LIME PANCAKES Recipe by Shelley Judge (Serves 3)
INGREDIENTS 2 cups wholemeal SR flour 2 tbsp baking powder 1 tbsp lime zest 2 tbsp chia seeds 4 tbsp water 1 tbsp lime juice 1 tbsp rice malt syrup (or other liquid sweetener) 2 cups almond milk (or other plant based milk) METHOD In a large bowl combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder and zest). In a small bowl combine chia seeds and water and then set aside for 5 minutes to allow chia seeds to absorb the water. Then add the chia seed mix, lime juice, rice malt syrup and almond milk to the flour and whisk until smooth. Heat a non stick pan, and then cook 1/4 cup mixture for 2 minutes then flip and cook for a further 1 minute. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
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T
he memobottle™; a flat, premium and reusable drink bottle designed to fit in a bag has captured the world’s attention through practical and convenient design while carrying a strong message of the importance of a sustainable future. The memobottle™ was born in a coastal community just south of Melbourne, Australia; by creators Jesse Leeworthy and Jonathan Byrt. The founders became inspired to design a bottle that could effectively lure consumers away from single use bottles. ‘For years we have been focused on creative design that provides environmental remedy while improving social convenience’, said Byrt. Leeworthy, a Product Design Engineer, set out to work on a design that soon became the memobottle™.The memobottle™ comes in 2 sizes, A5 and A6, which resemble the international paper sizes by the same name. The inspiration stemmed from two problems that the co-founders saw in society. Firstly, given their attachment to the outdoors and the environment, the duo developed a passionate desire to reduce single use bottle consumption and its disastrous effect on the environment. Secondly, throughout their schooling,
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university, and professional work lives, they experienced constant frustrations with the inability to fit round water bottles into carry/laptop bags.“Somewhere along the line, society became fixated on designing cylindrical shaped bottles. Rather than making a product that conforms to the status quo, we decided to create something that is easy to transport but still holds the functional aspects of traditional bottles”, says Leeworthy. Memobottle™ Makes It All The Way To The Oscars in 2016! The memobottle™ has struck a chord and is already sold in over 150 retail outlets globally and is shipped to well over 70 countries each month. This year the memobottle™ took centre stage at the 88th Oscar Awards in Hollywood as a special inclusion in the gift bags given exclusively to the official nominees of the awards.“Using a global stage like the Oscars allowed us to have our message of sustainability resonate around the world. We have one planet; we are the first generation to feel the effects of manmade climate change and we may be the last that can do something about it.” comments Byrt. “We feel that by creating a beautiful and practical product we can help convince the world that sustainability and life convenience don’t need to be mutually exclusive.” says Leeworthy.
“WE FEEL THAT BY CREATING A BEAUTIFUL AND PRACTICAL PRODUCT, WE CAN HELP CONVINCE THE WORLD THAT SUSTAINABILITY AND LIFE CONVENIENCE DON’T NEED TO BE MUTUALLY EXCLUSIVE.” al l ied magazine
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THE HEALTH PLACE
W
e stumbled across Health Place through their sponsored
Facebook advertising and we had to get in touch with this innovative allied health clinic. Heath Place is changing the landscape of health delivery in Brisbane, and prides itself on bridging the gap between a typical health clinic and a day spa. Their mantra includes providing the very best treatments and services to improve their clients’ lives, in a
Health Place’s innovative owner,
setting that is comfortable, classy and
Pedro, has had a varied background.
in no way clinical.
He toured with Cirque Du Soleil for one year as the resident massage therapist on the show. He worked alongside the show’s physiotherapists to deliver treatments that kept the artists in the best possible shape at all times. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Pedro to ask him some questions about his business and what it has taken to grow the business to where it is today.
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How did Health Place begin? It actually started with two smaller locations in Redlands, Brisbane – I was working from gyms where there was no team spirit. I felt I needed to innovate and improve and give clients something unique that was just not available to them. Health Place was born out of this need and we made sure we focused on every minute detail to get it just right. We wanted to change the industry, we wanted to make a difference.
Starting a business can be a real challenge, what did you find the most difficult? Unfortunately, we faced all the usual issues as a startup. Firstly there was funding and managing our spending – you don’t want to overspend and get into debt so early on in your business journey. The other issue we faced was moving to a new location, sure I had lots of great clients in my original location, but we were opening a new place with no reputation.
of 14 and work with a huge client base and larger organisations such as the Wallabies, Queensland Reds and the Queensland Ballet Company.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to a graduate wanting to start their own business? Number one – you need to work with someone else before you venture out on your own. Listen to people who are in the industry already, get a mentor or someone who can guide you. Don’t just open a business straight away and think you know everything as the challenges may take you over – having said that though, there is nothing more rewarding then seeing your own project flourish.
Listen to people who are in the industry already, get a mentor. someone that can guide you.
Another challenge was hiring the right people. We have had a very thorough process to help new therapists learn from those who have experience and we have really spent a lot of time building their knowledge – as a health practitioner and also understanding how to run a good business. Despite the challenges, the hard work does pay off, we now have a staff
In terms of marketing, what was your strategy?
We didn’t really have a proper marketing plan funnily enough. We relied on word of mouth and cost effective promotion through Facebook. We relied on our knowledge and communication skills to create strong relationships with our clients, who are now our biggest advocates. As we’ve grown, we have seen the need to have a dedicated marketing professional helping us keep on top of everything.
So, what’s next for Health Place? We have big plans! We want more branches in Melbourne and Sydney and we also want to look at helping fellow health professionals be the best they can be.
CONNECT WITH HEALTH PLACE @healthplace www.healthplace.com.au
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5 INSTAGRAM IMAGES THAT ALWAYS SUCCEED Ever wondered how to OPTIMIZE your Instagram snaps to appeal to your audience and increase your businesse’s EXPOSURE? Read on... 30
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USER GENERATED PHOTOS
CONTESTS AND GIVEAWAYS
User-generated content, or UGC, is really popular in 2016. It’s real, and it connects and resonates with your followers, working as social proof and showing visitors that other users are raving about your brand. It’s no surprise that UGC images get so much attention and engagement on Instagram.
Everyone loves a good competition don’t they? Why not give people the chance to experience your services (adds more followers to your page AND you may get a new client).
TIP: Encourage your clients to share photos with you of what they get up to away from sessions with you!
BEHIND THE SCENES OF YOUR HEALTH BUSINESS Behind the scenes images, particularly pictures that are taken of or by employees, are almost as powerful as UGC images when it comes to driving results. Clients love to get that inside look into your business. It makes you real, it makes you approachable and it adds trust.
TIP: Don’t make the competition too difficult otherwise no one will take part. A quick tag, comment etc. is all you need.
PHOTOS/VIDEOS THAT TEACH You teach everyday so why not share your thoughts? Perhaps it’s a photo on how to have the perfect exercise form or a recipe for a delicious, healthy meal? By sharing your knowledge you are giving back to the Instagram community and could lead to potential leads. TIP: Try video and make it fun and informative. Remember practice makes perfect, so plan before you film!
TIP: Don’t be afraid to show the things that go wrong, are you puffed after a hard exercise session – show them you are human too!
MOTIVATIONAL MESSAGES An uplifting, motivational post can resonate with your audience. Nike is the king of brands that share motivational images on Instagram, and they have a ton of followers and engagement to back their strategy up. There are even entire Instagram accounts that are devoted to only posting motivational quotes. TIP: If you are working in health, you are no doubt extremely passionate – share that passion through your inner thoughts and advice.
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Don't Be Bone Idle
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Experts launch assessment tool to help curb bone fractures. New figures reveal a bone break every 3.4 minutes due to poor bone health
An Australian-first bone health self-assessment tool designed to help consumers understand their bone fracture risk, is now available to all adults, including the 7.5 million Australians living with brittle bones.1 The ‘Know Your Bones’ online tool – an inaugural Garvan Institute of Medical Research and Osteoporosis Australia joint initiative – helps adults assess their likelihood of fractures, including those diagnosed with osteopenia and osteoporosis – two common bone conditions that, together with fractures, will cost the nation more than $3 billion this year.2 The evidence-based, consumer-friendly tool summarises bone fracture risk by assessing age, gender, weight, history of fracture, bone mineral density, and history of falls and life-
style factors within the past 12 months. Risk of fracture over five and 10 years respectively, is assessed for people aged 50 and above, and a general, actionable summary is provided for all users (aged 18 and above), for further discussion with their GP. The launch of the innovative tool coincides with the release of new Osteoporosis Australia fracture figures revealing more than 155,000 fractures will occur Australia-wide this year,2 with a bone broken every 3.4 minutes due to poor bone health.2 Furthermore, men will account for up to 30 per cent of all fractures related to osteopenia and osteoporosis, and their associated costs. In 2016, the total annual cost of fractures is estimated to be $2.075 billion.2
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ccording to Professor Jacqueline Center, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, the Know Your Bones project is based on key research findings from the 26-year-long Dubbo Osteoporosis Epidemiology Study, the world’s longest-running, largescale, osteoporosis study. The Dubbo study has been led, since inception, by researchers from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research’s Bone Biology Division, including Professor John Eisman AO, Professor Center and Professor Tuan Nguyen. “The Dubbo study has confirmed that both men and women are affected by osteoporosis, and that bone loss continues in older age. The study has also revealed that once you fracture a bone as a result of poor bone health, the risk of breaking another bone doubles in women, and increases three-to-four-fold in men. Furthermore, there is a strong link between all major fractures and premature death.”
“Given the community’s thirst for credible health information, this innovative bone health selfassessment tool will offer consumers a simple summary of their fracture risk, which they can take to their GP for further discussion.” Federal Minister for Health, The Hon. Sussan Ley MP, said “the Know Your Bones health assessment tool is a great example of how medical research can be translated into a real community’s benefit, allowing anyone to better understand their own risk of fractures.
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Professor Peter Ebeling AO, Medical Director, Osteoporosis Australia and Board Member of the International Osteoporosis Foundation, says osteoporosis reduces bone strength and increases the risk of fracture, particularly of the spine, hip and wrist. “Osteoporosis and related fractures is an Australian national health priority. “That’s why Osteoporosis Australia and the Garvan Institute of Medical Research have joined forces, to place this practical, online self-assessment tool in the hands of the community, so they can be proactive about their bone health,” said Prof Ebeling.
“Given the community’s thirst for credible health information, this innovative bone health self-assessment tool will offer consumers a simple summary of their fracture risk, which they can take to their GP for further discussion.”
“Importantly, this study has allowed us to understand a person’s risk of fracture based on a combination of factors, which we have incorporated into the ‘Know Your Bones’ self-assessment tool,” Professor Center said.
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“I encourage all adults to take a few minutes out of one day, jump online and complete the Know Your Bones assessment.”
Published author, wife and keen mother, Annarosa, 54, Sydney, has a strong family history of osteoporosis. On a Sunday morning walk in September 2010, Annarosa tripped over her bootlaces and landed heavily on her wrist. Despite experiencing excruciating pain, Annarosa was determined to walk the five blocks home. On her way home however, and in the absence of a mobile phone, she entered a local corner store for help, where she contacted her husband, who drove her to hospital emergency. She was subsequently admitted to hospital, and underwent an X-ray that confirmed a fractured wrist. After returning home for a few days to allow the swelling to subside, Annarosa returned to hospital to have her wrist set in plaster and to undergo a bone mineral density scan which revealed osteoporosis in her hip and spine. “That’s when I discovered that my bones were not healthy at all – in fact, they were much weaker than the rest of me,” Annarosa said. “When I was diagnosed with osteoporosis, I was really surprised and a bit upset – I was only 48 at the time, and I had not considered it was a disease that people of my age developed.
“Fortunately, we caught the disease early, so were able to commence treating it, and to care for, and improve the strength of my bones,” said Annarosa. Annarosa urges all adult Australians to get to know their bone health, by using the Know Your Bones online health assessment tool, “because anything that offers protection against developing brittle bones and sustaining a fracture is worth five minutes of your time.” Osteoporosis Australia CEO, Greg Lyubomirsky, said Australians should regard these new fracture figures as a public health warning. “Two-thirds of Australians aged 50 and above, have poor bone health and many don’t know it, even when they have obvious risk factors, or have experienced a previous fracture. Unfortunately, only around 20 per cent of those women who sustain a fracture and go to hospital, are either treated or properly investigated for osteoporosis. Even fewer men are followed up appropriately. “Poor bone health can lead to fractures. Don’t wait to break a bone, take the Know Your Bones health assessment today,” Mr Lyubomirsky said.
Osteoporosis affects women and men, and occurs when bones lose their density and quality, weakening the skeleton. Osteoporosis can affect almost any of your body’s 206 bones, though fractures most often occur in the hip, spine, wrist, ribs, and pelvis. However, the Know Your Bones tool can help people understand when they may need to speak to their GP about managing risks, proper medical investigation and management can approximately halve the risk of further fracture.4 Risk factors for osteoporosis include a family history of the disease, fractures from minimal trauma, low bone density and falls. Medical risk factors include low body weight, early menopause, low testosterone, inflammatory conditions, malabsorption disorders (such as coeliac disease), corticosteroid use (e.g. for asthma), some cancer treatments (particularly for breast and prostate cancer), loss of height (3 cm or more), overactive thyroid and parathyroid conditions.5 Lifestyle issues include calcium and vitamin D deficiency, smoking, insufficient exercise and excessive alcohol consumption.
The Know Your Bones fracture risk self-assessment takes only five minutes. Simply visit www.knowyourbones.org. au, print out a report and take it to your doctor to discuss your risk and a suitable action plan.
“To assess your risk of breaking a bone, go online, answer some questions and, most importantly, share your results with your doctor,” urged Helen Dalley, Patron of Osteoporosis Australia, whose mother battled osteoporosis, and who understands how disruptive a fracture can be on daily life, having personally sustained a hand fracture.
It’s estimated that 1.2 million Australians are living with osteoporosis and 6.3 million have low bone density.
“Get to know your bones and stay fracture-free. Visit www.knowyourbones. org.au today.”
References 1. Henry MJ, Pasco JA, Nicholson GC, et al. Prevalence of osteoporosis in Australian men and women: Geelong Osteoporosis Study. Med J Australia 2011; 195:321-322 and ABS Australian Demographic Statistics. 2. Sanders KM, Watts JJ, Abimanyi-Ochom J, Murtaza G. Osteoporosis: A Burden of Disease Analysis – Preliminary Data 2016 (national and State-specific). Osteoporosis Australia. 2016. 3. Watts J, Abimanyi-Ochom J, Sanders K. Osteoporosis costing all Australians – A new burden of disease analysis 2012-2022. Osteoporosis Australia, 2013. 4. Chen J, Sambrook P. Antiresorptive therapies for osteoporosis: a clinical overview. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2012; 8:81-91. 5. Osteoporosis Australia. What you need to know about Osteoporosis. 2014.
ABOUT THE BONE ALLIANCE
A new Bone Alliance between the Garvan Institute of Medical Research and Osteoporosis Australia was announced on World Osteoporosis Day 2015 (October 20) to address the major health issue of osteoporosis, using innovation and education to achieve positive change for bone health. The Know Your Bones health assessment tool represents the first project of this partnership. JOIN THE COVERSATION @knowyourbones, @osteoporosisaustralia, @garvaninstitute www.knowyourbones.org.au @osteoporosis_au, @GarvanInstitute
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RECIPE
Recipe by Shelley Judge (Makes 12 muffins)
Strawberry Breakfast Muffins
INGREDIENTS 1.5 cups almond meal 3/4 cup oats (or extra almond meal for gluten free) 1/4 cup LSA (or bran) 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp bi carb soda 1/4 cup natvia 1 cup homemade apple sauce (Homemade is best, to ensure no added sugar, alternatively banana could be used as a replacement) 1/2 cup almond milk 1 tbsp coconut oil 2 eggs 1 punnet strawberries METHOD In a bowl combine dry ingredients (almond meal, oats, baking powder, bi carb, nativa). In a separate bowl combine wet ingredients (apple sauce, almond milk, coconut oil, 2 eggs). Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined. Lastly mix through 2/3 roughly chopped strawberries. Spoon into a lined 12 hole muffin tray. Top with more strawberries and a sprinkle of coconut sugar (optional). Then bake in a moderate oven for 25mins or until golden and cooked through.
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WHERE FOCUS GOES ENERGY FLOWS. - Tony Robins
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STRIVE FOR SUCCESS Lorraine is an award winning Exercise Physiologist and we had the chance to sit down and chat to her about her successes. She also shares a few tips on how to strive in a busy lifestyle.
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When did you start your own business and how was the process?
So, you are an Exercise Physiologist. When did you decide that is what you wanted to do? This is a great first question. Yes, that’s right, I’m an exercise physiologist. I actually never decided that I wanted to be an ‘exercise physiologist’ as it wasn’t really heard of when I was in high school. I was at university when I decided that my dream job would be in the area of cardiovascular health and rehabilitation. After graduation, it took me three years to get there and I’ve been in it for 10 years now. Stoked!
In 2015, you were named Exercise & Sports Science Australia Accredited Exercise Physiologist of the year! How did this come about and what does it mean to you?
Over the years I have been interested in starting my own business and I have started a couple of online business courses to help with this venture. My husband however, has been in business for over a decade. A year ago we found a way to come together under the same umbrella, even though we are trained in different industries. When we launched our company 12 months ago, everything became streamlined and easier. I am also very fortunate to have a great support network and I undertake business training which I highly recommend all business owners do.
What have you learnt from running your own business? Tell us about some highs and some lows? You need to work both on and in the business and do at least one thing on or in it everyday. Finding that balance between the two can be challenging, albeit sometimes brief periods working on the business can be enough to keep it humming along nicely. Highs? Flexibility of being your own boss and working your own hours. Lows? Constant work that never ends. The key is to control your workload and not let it control you. It can be hard to clock off some days but I’ve learnt to keep strict boundaries to maintain a good work/life balance.
“Too often we focus on the end goal and miss the beauty that Very simple. Are you ready? I opened an lies in getting to that email from ESSA about their industry awards, place” read through the application and entered. That’s it. You have to be in to win it. I won it in 2009 so I knew the process. I was strategic about it both times. I threw a line out to my network and I asked a few mentors and friends who know my work, to support my application by nominating me. At the end of the day, the way I see it is that my hard work has been recognised and that is not only a very rewarding experience but also a pretty cool thing to have to my name. It’s like winning an Olympic gold medal in the exercise physiology arena and I am fortunate to have two of them now.
Did you know much about marketing or did you learn on the go? A bit of both and I’m still learning. Marketing is a complete job in itself so there’s always so much to learn in this area. Being good in business is about becoming a more effective marketer. I learn a lot just by looking at what other successful businesses are doing.
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cycle, but it works and gets things done. I’ve also invested in systems that save me time and money so I can then spend more time doing things that I enjoy.
What advice would you have for a recently graduated Accredited Exercise Physiologist?
You have created a great e-book series- congrats! What made you decide to do this and tell us about the experience of producing an e-book? Thanks! Mia, my co-author in the series and I caught up over the phone one day. She said a throwaway line about writing a book together. I didn’t think she was serious when we starting discussing ideas about it. It was only when I got off the phone to her that I thought, I just agreed to what? Then it was all go from there and within two months we published our first book. It wasn’t easy though, rather a tough learning curve for both of us. Our lives were already full and we had no experience in book writing or publishing. But we had each other to go through it together. I once heard someone say “everything is figure-out-able”, and that’s just what we did. Each step of the way we worked everything out and it was such a rewarding feeling when we finished.
Tell me about Stand Up for Health. A couple of years ago I came up with the term ‘stand up health’, which has become my unique brand and is a mission that I
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am very passionate about. I guess it’s like a campaign, or movement, to get people to spend more time on their feet rather than their bottom. It’s also about getting people motivated to be more engaged with their own health care - being your own health advocate. I believe you don’t need to take radical measures to improve your health, it can start with just sitting less, standing more and moving more each and every hour of your waking day. It’s about fun and accountability and a sustainable way of improving one’s health.
What motivates you each day? I do this by remembering that my life is a gift and my health is a blessing. I’ve had my share of ill health so I find it absolutely wondrous just to wake up healthy, to be able to get out of bed, and eat and work. Do I have tips? Of course I do. I would like to encourage everyone to enjoy the process of getting somewhere. Too often we focus on the end goal and miss the beauty that lies in getting to that place and sometimes, ‘that place’ may be a different or a better place than you first expected.
How do you manage your time? That is another great question. I plan ahead. I multitask where I can and I know my priorities and when they change, I change the plan. It’s a vicious
Start before you’re ready. When I launched my first website, I didn’t really know what I was doing and I didn’t even have a product to sell. Such was the case for a lot of things I’ve done. There is nothing to be embarrassed about when you’re just starting out, you just need to put yourself out there and get both field and life experience. Find your strengths and discover your passions and start flexing your muscles by immersing yourself in those areas with like-minded people. If you don’t get the job you want straight up, remember that there are alternate pathways and sometimes those detours are like the best amusement park ride. Most of all ENJOY the process of getting to where you want to and be open to change.
CONNECT WITH LORRAINE www.standuphealth.com @lozbarwick
ONCE IN A WHILE BLOW YOUR OWN DAMN MIND!
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