When winter arrives, people living with arthritis may notice their joints feel stiffer, sorer, or harder to get moving. If that sounds familiar, you’re not imagining it. 

While research hasn’t identified a single direct cause linking cold weather to arthritis flares, studies suggest that factors such as temperature changes, shifts in barometric pressure, reduced physical activity, and changes in sleep patterns may influence pain sensitivity and joint stiffness (Arthritis Australia, 2023; Kolasinski et al., 2020).  Read more

It is widely recognised that exercise is beneficial for overall health – particularly for the cardiovascular system. However, many people are uncertain about how to exercise safely after experiencing a heart condition. In most cases, appropriately prescribed exercise plays a vital role in cardiac rehabilitation and long-term heart health. The key is ensuring that exercise is introduced gradually and performed safely. 

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We have all heard the advice to “walk it off” when feeling stressed. For decades this was vague lifestyle advice. But science has fundamentally changed this picture — exercise isn’t just a side dish in mental healthcare; it is the main course. Research now confirms that for many people, hitting the gym or the pavement can be just as effective as medication or counselling.1 

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As we move into late summer and early autumn, many athletes are shifting gears toward pre-season training for AFL and NRL. This is a phase where training volume, speed work, and (for contact sports) tackling gradually increase. From a physio’s perspective, this period isn’t something to fear — but it does benefit from smart preparation and good load management.

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Shoulder pain is a common problem, with 15-30% of people experiencing it at some point in their lives.1 There are various things that are thought to contribute to shoulder pain, such as repetitive strain injuries, falls, and accidents. The most common causes of musculoskeletal shoulder pain are injuries to the rotator cuff, glenohumeral joint instability, and acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries.

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The importance of mental health in the modern world cannot be overstated. In 2019, it was reported that globally, 1 in 8 people were affected by a mental-health disorder, at an estimated cost of approximately $2.5 trillion USD. 1 Fortunately, there exists a simple yet profound tool that can significantly benefit mental well-being: exercise.

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