Our difference makes a difference: why specialised women's physiotherapy is crucial

Did you know that of the 1.5 billion people who live with a physical, mental, sensory, or intellectual disability, almost 60 per cent are women (Kolkka & Williams, 1997)?

Using allied health services is critical for all of us at some point during our lifetimes, but for women with disability, there are unique needs that require the support of specialised professionals.

Dilpreet (Shaffy) Kaur, Physiotherapist, McCall Gardens, said women with disabilities often face unique health challenges that require specialised care.

“Research highlights that women with neurological or spinal conditions are at a higher risk for pelvic floor dysfunction and related complications,” Shaffy said.

Some of these unique issues include:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Neurological changes can affect pelvic muscles, leading to incontinence or pelvic pain.
• Parkinson’s Disease: Motor dysfunction may result in pelvic pain or bladder issues.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Nerve damage can impact bladder, bowel, and sexual function.
• Stroke: Motor deficits can weaken the pelvic floor, causing prolapse or incontinence.

How Can Women’s Health Physiotherapists Help?

“Women’s health physiotherapists are specifically trained to manage and prevent a variety of conditions that significantly impact women’s well-being, from adolescence through to menopause,” Shaffy said.

“It’s important that women, particularly those with disability, seek out support from a physiotherapist with that specific training.

“For example, as a Women’s Health Physiotherapist I have completed training through the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA), including Level 1 Women’s Health and will be progressing to further advanced training to enhance my skills and knowledge this year.”?

This expertise enables McCall’s Women’s Health Physiotherapist to provide:

• Comprehensive assessments tailored to individual needs
• Personalised treatment plans for optimal outcomes
• Education and prevention strategies to empower women

A Message for Support Coordinators

One of the barriers to access to allied health often experienced by people with disability is a lack of education among healthcare and support workers (Greaux et al, 2023).?

“If you’re a support coordinator in the NDIS system, recognising the prevalence of women’s health issues in this population is crucial,” Shaffy said.?

“Access to a skilled Women’s Health Physiotherapist can significantly improve physical and emotional well-being, empowering individuals to achieve better outcomes in their daily lives.”

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Why Choose McCall for Women’s Health Physiotherapy?

At McCall, we provide?care?tailored to everyone’s unique needs. Our Women’s Health Physiotherapy services go beyond treatment—we empower women to lead more independent, confident, and fulfilling lives.

McCall’s physiotherapists focus on:

• Individualised Care:?Our way of caring. We provide tailored treatment considering physical, emotional, and social factors.
• Accessibility Focus:?We’re committed to ensuring that nothing stands in the way of providing care or helping you access it. Our services are thoughtfully adapted to accommodate mobility aids and overcome physical limitations, ensuring seamless and inclusive support.
• Empowerment Through Education:?Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools to take charge of your health beyond our treatment. By doing so, we help build your independence and confidence every step of the way.

Would you benefit from women’s health physiotherapy?

If you experience any of these issues, you could benefit from the specialised services offered by women’s health physiotherapists:

• Pelvic pain
• Pelvic floor weakness
• Bladder and bowel incontinence

???Contact Us To learn more about our Women’s Health Physiotherapy services or to make a referral, reach out to us today at?[email protected]

What is Women's Health Physiotherapy?

Women’s Health Physiotherapy is a specialised field addressing the unique health needs of women, spanning from adolescence through post-menopause. For women with disabilities, this care becomes even more critical. At McCall, our physiotherapist prioritise personalised care to support each individual’s unique journey.