Kieser Geelong’s 12-week Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Program involves physiotherapists, exercise scientists/physiologists and a supervised exercise on specialised equipment.
The program is aimed at people with hip or knee osteoarthritis who are considering joint-replacement surgery.
Australians have around 500,000 hip replacements and 600,000 knee replacements annually.
“Current research indicates some people who undertake surgical joint replacement may delay or even prevent surgery if they undergo appropriate treatment and management,” says Kieser Geelong’s Richard Wallace.
“Our program aims to do just that: delay or prevent joint replacement surgery, primarily through reduced pain levels and improved function.
“If surgery is required, the program aims to better-prepare the participant for surgery by improving strength and function of the joint, leading to improved post-operative rehabilitation.”
Health insurer GMHBA is collaborating with Kieser on a pilot study of the Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Program.
The program is available for the first 150 eligible GMHBA members with valid hospital cover and at least 12 months of membership. GMBHA will cover the cost for eligible members who complete the Kieser program by 31 December.
Referral from a medical practitioner is required and satisfying the eligibility criteria is essential, including a confirmed diagnosis of osteoarthritis of the hip or knee and being a potential candidate for surgery within the next three years.
More information is available by phoning 5221 7555 or visiting kieser.com.au.
