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Private Health Insurance Claims FAQs
Private Health Insurance Claims FAQs
Australian private health insurance companies are bound by new legislation introduced by the Federal Government and taking effect from 1st April 2019. This has left many people asking whether our Physiotherapy, Feldenkrais and Clinical Pilates services are still covered.
DISCLAIMER: There are hundreds of different health funds in Australia. Each fund offers different levels of cover for Physiotherapy services and different rebates. As a result the following FAQs are a general guide only. For accurate advice please call your insurance company. It may be helpful to quote the item codes listed in the Frequently Asked Questions below.Can I claim Individual Physiotherapy appointments at Free2Move?
Individual appointments may be claimable under item code 500 (initial assessment consultation) or item code 505 (subsequent consultation). If you have two or more problems requiring treatment you may be able to claim for a long consultation (item code 506). Please check with your insurance company to find out whether you are covered and how much you would get back for each of these items.
Can I claim for Individual Pilates Appointments at Free2Move?
Under the new legislation, exercises which are drawn from our knowledge of Clinical Pilates may be included as part of your Physiotherapy treatment. We only provide treatment that we consider to be within the accepted scope of clinical practice for our profession. As a result you may be able to claim for your treatment under item code 500 (initial assessment consultation), item 505 (subsequent consultation) or item 506 (long consultation – 2 or more problem areas). Only your health fund can advise whether you are covered and how much you would get back.In this case the following codes will appear on your receipt: item code 500 (initial assessment consultation), item 505 (subsequent consultation) or item 506 (long consultation – 2 or more problem areas). Please check with your health insurance provider to find out if you are covered and what rebate you would receive.
Can I claim for Individual Feldenkrais Appointments at Free2Move?
Under the new legislation, exercises which are drawn from our knowledge of Feldenkrais may be included as part of your Physiotherapy treatment. We only provide treatment that we consider to be within the accepted scope of clinical practice for our profession. As a result you may be able to claim for your treatment under item code 500 (initial assessment consultation), item 505 (subsequent consultation) or item 506 (long consultation – 2 or more problem areas). Only your health fund can advise whether you are covered and how much you would get back.
Can I claim for Group Pilates Sessions at Free2Move?
Free2Move no longer offer Group Pilates Sessions. However we do offer Exercise Rehab Group Sessions, which may incorporate some exercises which are drawn from our knowledge of Clinical Pilates. In these sessions a maximum of 4 people attend our exercise studio at the same time. Each person has an individual exercise programme specifically created by their Physio to address their health goals and medical conditions. As this service is within the accepted scope of clinical practice for our profession, the sessions may be claimable under item code 560. Please confirm whether your health insurance policy covers you for this service.
Can I claim for Pilates Floor Classes or Feldenkrais Floor Classes at Free2Move?
Unfortunately our Pilates and Feldenkrais Floor Classes are no longer claimable under private health insurance. The Federal Government’s legislation being introduced on 1st April 2019 means that no health insurance company anywhere in Australia is allowed to offer refunds on these classes.
COVID 19 Update
Our floor classes will all be held online for Term 2 and 3 in 2020. We are using the Zoom app to bring all our classes to you in your own home. This is a great way to take a break from your computer and get some exercise. More than ever we need to learn new ways to take care of both the body and the mind. Because of our training in the Feldenkrais Method we are able to provide support for you during this difficult time. At the end of each class their will be a time for chatting together to help reduce social isolation. Online classes are not claimable under private health insurance.
Important note about our Floor Classes
Please be assured that as Physiotherapists with over 20 years experience each, we still offer the same high standard of movement and posture education in Pilates and Feldenkrais floor classes. It is unfortunate the Federal Government does not recognise the value of these services to our clients.
Training in the Feldenkrais Method is highly sought after by Australian Physiotherapists. We believe that this is because it is often effective where traditional approaches have not worked. Principal Physiotherapist of Free2Move Jodie Krantz has been invited on numerous occasions by the Australian Physiotherapy Association to present Feldenkrais workshops to her Physio colleagues. Jodie also taught Feldenkrais for 7 years as part of the Bunbury Pain Management Programme run by St John of God Hospital in Bunbury.Â
In 2018 Jodie was assisted world renowned Physiotherapist and researcher, Dr Marie-Louise Bird in presenting a Pilates for Older Adults training workshop to Physiotherapists in Perth. This workshop was also organised by the Australian Physiotherapy Association. Clinical Pilates is different from fitness Pilates. The exercises originally developed by Joseph Pilates are often not appropriate for our clients. Clinical Pilates refers to exercises that are specifically adapted to fit the medical diagnosis and functional goals of our clients.ÂWhere can I find more information?
Please follow the links below for more information about the changes.
Federal Government Legislation changes
Hicaps codes for Physiotherapy
Information about Hicaps codes from the Australian Physiotherapy AssociationPlease be assured that as Physiotherapists with over 20 years experience each, we still offer the same high standard of movement and posture education in Pilates and Feldenkrais floor classes. It is unfortunate the Federal Government does not recognise the value of these services to our clients.
Training in the Feldenkrais Method is highly sought after by Australian Physiotherapists. We believe that this is because it is often effective where traditional approaches have not worked. Principal Physiotherapist of Free2Move Jodie Krantz has been invited on numerous occasions by the Australian Physiotherapy Association to present Feldenkrais workshops to her Physio colleagues. Jodie also taught Feldenkrais for 7 years as part of the Bunbury Pain Management Programme run by St John of God Hospital in Bunbury.
In 2018 Jodie was assisted world renowned Physiotherapist and researcher, Dr Marie-Louise Bird in presenting a Pilates for Older Adults training workshop to Physiotherapists in Perth. This workshop was also organised by the Australian Physiotherapy Association. Clinical Pilates is different from fitness Pilates. The exercises originally developed by Joseph Pilates are often not appropriate for our clients. Clinical Pilates refers to exercises that are specifically adapted to fit the medical diagnosis and functional goals of our clients.
First Term 2018 – Feldenkrais Theme
First Term 2018 – Feldenkrais Theme
Each term in our Feldenkrais Classes Jodie and Ali each have a particular focus or theme. The theme carries through a whole term so that participants can explore movement in a more structured and informative way.
Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement lessons involve sensing and moving the whole body. Every part of the body is connected to every other part in numerous ways. The arms, legs and feet are connected to each other through the skeleton, through the connective tissue and through the nervous system. All Feldenkrais classes help the whole body to function more efficiently and comfortably, regardless of the specific theme.
Mobility of the Chest and Ribs – Jodie’s Theme
- Improve breathing – the most fundamental movement of all
- Discover a more supple chest and spine
- Reduce strain on the shoulders, neck and lower back
- Experience a light yet powerful connections of both the arms and the legs to the central axis and ‘core’.
- Relax deeply
In Jodie’s classes this term we will explore how the chest connects with every other part of the body. Through movement and focused attention we will come to understand why the chest and ribs are so vital to overall functioning. Participants will discover how and why it’s so common to stiffen this area and what to do to prevent or reverse this.
Of course a stiff chest has a huge impact on breathing and the ability to get oxygen to the tissues. This is especially so while exercising or exerting ourselves. Bracing and stiffening of the chest and ribs often relates to fully or partially holding the breath. The adversely affects health and vitality.
We will begin this term’s classes with a series of undulating movements, which start at the feet and flow all the way along the length of the body to the head. We will use a blanket roller to restore mobility and comfort to the chest and spine. We will then gradually progress through some gentle yet powerful lessons which improve awareness of the chest in all it’s dimensions. Finally we will explore to some more challenging whole body movements lying on the side and the back, all the while taking care to stay in the range that is absolutely safe and comfortable. Movements will be in every plane, including twisting, side bending, flexing and extending.
Softness and Connection in the Hands, Arms and Shoulders-Ali’s Theme
For the first term of 2018 Ali’s focus will be on creating softness and mobility in the body by exploring the connection between the hands, shoulders and chest. The aim for the classes will be on reducing tension through the fingers and hands, finding the connection between the hands and the rib cage, and increasing mobility through the chest and shoulders.
It can be hard to imagine that tense fingers and hands have anything to do with our shoulders, let alone effect mobility through our sternum and chest. Yet so often the stiffness we feel in our shoulders, has everything to do with how we hold and move our hands and arms. And in turn, finding release and mobility in our hands and arms can release tension through our shoulders, collarbone and rib cage.
Ali’s classes will also use awareness through movement to explore how alignment and connection through the lower limbs and pelvis can influence your capacity to find freedom in your upper body
Theme for Feldenkrais Classes Second Term 2017
Theme for Feldenkrais Classes Second Term 2017
Alison’s Class Theme
Saturdays at 10:00 am
Moving on from last series freeing the neck and the jaw to twisting and turning without effort.
Jodie’s Classes Theme
Mondays at 6 pm and 7pm, Tuesdays at 9.30am, Thursdays at 10.30am
This term the focus is on power without effort. We will be exploring the bodies natural ‘movement physics’, paying attention to the bodies hinges and levers.
The aim will be to create more energy efficient movement.
Free2Move on the Move – Our New Location
Free2Move on the Move – Our New Location
Free2Move is on the move… we have a new location.
It’s been just over 6 months since Free2Move made the big move. We left our old premises in Mt Hawthorn for our new home at 150 Vincent Street, North Perth.
Jodie Krantz, Principal Physiotherapist and proprietor of Free2Move spent a long time looking for the right premises for our little practice to call home. At one time she made a bid for the property at 97 Scarborough Beach Road. She’d been practicing there since 2008 after moving her business from Bunbury to the big city of Perth, Western Australia. Sadly Jodie’s offer was not accepted and a dental practitioner bought the old building in Mt Hawthorn. We were lucky enough to have a couple of years grace before having to find new digs. Jodie spent this time avidly researching and canvassing various properties in the Mt Hawthorn/North Perth areas. Being a stickler for quality, location and the right amenities, Jodie found it quite a challenge and the clock was ticking!
Finally one day Jodie’s partner Ben was chatting to a fellow composer and friend about the trouble they were having finding the right place for Free2Move. His friend announced that they were thinking of converting the front part of their 112 year old Mt Lawley style home into a business. Discussions and negotiations ensued. A partnership was born which over the next 6 months was realised as our new premises at 150 Vincent Street, North Perth.
During the transition period we were able to continue to see clients with very little disruption to service. Thanks to our wonderful team of staff the move itself went very smoothly. We closed our doors in Mt Hawthorn on 16th Dec 2015, packed up and moved on 17th December. By 3rd January 2016 we reopened for business in our elegantly renovated building in North Perth.
Our now not-so-new premises are just lovely. We have new floating wooden floors throughout; a deep veranda filled with lovely pot plants; long bay windows in the practice room that let in just the right amount of softened light. The old original style of the house has been maintained with beautiful high ceilings, led light doors and windows and gold painted ornate architraves and ceiling roses.
Our staff love working at 150 Vincent Street. It’s a great location just across the road from beautiful Hyde Park. There are excellent cafes within walking distance in all directions and just the feel of the house, it’s vibe makes being at work each day a real pleasure.
Joanna Fugl, Practice Manager
Feldenkrais for Stress and Anxiety
Feldenkrais for Stress and Anxiety
By Jodie Krantz
To improve our mental health we need to become more mindful of what is going on inside our bodies, not just in the world around us. Feldenkrais can help with this.
This week I started teaching a series of awareness through movement lessons for psychiatric inpatients at the Marion Centre, Perth Western Australia. This small private psychiatric hospital provides a rehabilitation service for people experiencing difficulty functioning in everyday life. I’m currently a volunteer at the hospital. I’m working in conjunction with a clinical psychologist and two occupational therapists.
Seeing people at such a low point in their lives has made me reflect on why more people need to know about the Feldenkrais Method. This method of learning to move more easily can improve your mental health as well as your physical health.
Developing skills to reduce stress, manage anxiety and improve mood has never been so important. According to the Australian bureau of statistics forty five percent of Australians experience mental health problems at some stage during their lives.
Anxiety is the most common form of mental illness in Australia and is the leading cause of disability in the world. Depression and mood disorders are also common. People with chronic pain (persistent pain) have a substantially increased risk of developing anxiety or depression.
Group work, relaxation training and various forms of physical exercise have long been known to assist in the management of mild to moderate anxiety and depression. The Feldenkrais Method combines mindfulness, movement and relaxation, all of which can help reduce stress, while improving many aspects of mental functioning.
Much of our lives are spent on autopilot. We respond in a stereotyped and habitual way to daily circumstances. Some of these responses are useful and but many are sub-optimal. Often we’re doing one thing but thinking about another thing. We rush from one activity to the next, desperately trying to multitask in order to achieve more in less time. We think of this as efficiency but the speed at which we live our lives is causing many of us to reach breaking point. Those who are most resistant to slowing down are often the ones who need it the most. Australian poet and cartoonist Michael Leunig has some funny but wise words to share with us on ‘restlessness‘ in Mr Curly’s letter to Vasco Pyjama!
During the course of an average day many of us spend a great deal of time tending to the tasks and demands of everyday life, while ignoring the body’s messages. For example we may go for long periods of time slouching in an uncomfortable chair, wearing a bra that constricts our breathing or shoes that hurt and damage our feet. Some of us habitually continue eating after we are full. Others become so preoccupied that we ignore our need to go to the toilet or get a drink.
“I believe that the unity of mind and body is an objective reality. They are not just parts somehow related to each other, but an inseparable whole while functioning. A brain without a body could not think. ” Moshe Feldenkrais
The thing is, reading about Feldenkrais is like reading about the ocean when you’ve never been there. You really need to experience it for yourself, not just read about it. We welcome you to call or email us today to enquire about a trial class or book an initial assessment. If you don’t live in Perth, you can access our free YouTube videos to begin your Feldenkrais journey.
Low Level Laser Therapy (Cold Laser)
Low Level Laser Therapy (Cold Laser)
What is Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
LLLT or Cold Laser is a painless, non-invasive form of light therapy which is thought to stimulate a healing response in tissues such as muscles, blood vessels, bone, nerve, skin, ligaments, tendons and other connective tissue. The laser beam we use is in the infra-red range of the spectrum. Because it’s wavelength is beyond the red end of the spectrum of visible light, its beam is invisible.
Laser differs from visible light because it has a single coherent wavelength rather than a range of wavelengths (which are what give visible light it’s range of colours). Unlike light, a laser beam does not diverge, but remains parallel and this allows it to be focused in a precise way. Our Laser is different from medical Lasers used in surgery, as it does not generate heat and therefore cannot burn tissue (which is why it is sometimes called Cold Laser). Laser treatment is painless and there is no vibration or sound when it is emitted.
How does Low Level Laser Therapy work?
The simplest answer is that we don’t know. The main theory suggests that it affects metabolism at the level of the cells, bringing about chemical reactions which accelerate cellular metabolism. This is thought to result in more faster cellular repair and regeneration with the formation of healthy new cells. It may also work by improving the blood supply to an area. It may reducing pain by it’s effects on the nerve endings and by stimulation of the body’s own pain relieving chemicals (such as endorphins and seratonin).
What conditions seem to respond well to Low Level Laser Therapy?
Laser can be helpful for pain relief, reduction in swelling, promoting tissue healing and reduction in the formation of fibrous scar tissue.
Conditions reported in the scientific literature to respond to Laser include pain relief and tissue healing, especially:- Back Neck and Knee Pain
- Shoulder Pain
- Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain
- Arthritis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Tennis Elbow
- Ankle Sprains
- Tendinitis and Tendinosis
- Ulcers / Wound Healing
- Painful Scar Tissue
What is the Scientific Evidence for Low Level Laser Therapy?
LLLT is an emerging modality that looks like it will result in a multitude of effective new treatments. It has not yet gained widespread acceptance because the body of scientific research supporting it’s effectiveness is still small. More research needs to be done to show which conditions it is most useful for and what the doseage should be. Quite a lot of the current evidence comes from studies on animals such as mice, though there have been some encouraging human studies.
Free2Move recommends Low Level Laser Therapy as part of a normal Physiotherapy treatment programme rather than as a stand alone treatment. Because is is a relatively new treatment, results cannot be guaranteed.
What are the risks of Low Level Laser Therapy?
The main risk is to the retina of the eyes. The intense and focused beam can damage the eyes if it shines directly into them. Safety glasses are worn at all times during treatment to prevent this damage. As an additional precaution, the Laser beam is never turned on until it is placed on the skin. Because the Laser cannot be seen, a blue light indicates that the machine is working and is an added safety feature. Laser should not be done over the ovaries, testicles, thyroid or pregnant uterus. There are some other contraindications to Laser for which you should be screened by your therapist. Provided these precautions are taken there are no known negative side effects.
Read about Exercise, Imaging and Laser for Shoulder Pain
More info: Please call Free2Move on 0405 97 2211 or email info@free2move.com.au
Introduction to the Feldenkrais Method: ‘New Light on Old Patterns’
Introduction to the Feldenkrais Method: ‘New Light on Old Patterns’
On Tuesday 11th November, Perth Physiotherapist Jodie Krantz from Free2Move in Mt Hawthorn presented a 2 hour workshop to recently graduated Physios at the Australian Physiotherapy Association branch office. Fourteen Perth Physiotherapists, who have graduated within the last 5 years, had the opportunity to experience the Feldenkrais Method first hand from a presenter with over 20 years experience in the field.
Ms Krantz invited participants to engage with questions such as:
- How do we change habits which no longer serve us?
- What about the stubborn, longstanding patterns which seem to defy change?
- Is there a ‘right’ and a ‘wrong’ way to move? or breathe?
- How can the discoveries we make about our own movement patterns enhance our ability to educate our clients?
- What does it mean to re-educate our movement patterns and why is it necessary?
- How can we have more power with less force? greater range with less strain?
The Feldenkrais Method is based on the life work of Dr Moshe Feldenkrais (1904 – 1984). Dr Feldenkrais, an inventor, nuclear physicist and judo expert, understood ‘neuroplasticity’ – the ability of the brain and nervous system to adapt, change and re-wire itself – long before it became a buzzword in popular science. His frequently subtle yet profound and powerful method of movement re-education is useful for anyone seeking to change patterns of pain and tension and replace them with a sense of ease and freedom.
The Feldenkrais Method is popular with Physiotherapists and people seeking to overcome chronic pain or neurological problems as well as athletes, dancers and performing artists, who wish to become more graceful, coordinated, efficient and powerful.
Ms Krantz describes Feldenkrais as a scientific approach to movement re-education, which focuses on improving the human capacity for learning. It involves directing the attention to the body in a relaxed, enjoyable and mindful way, while exploring slow, gentle yet unusual movement sequences. This helps Feldenkrais students become more aware of muscular habits and tension patterns, allowing them to discover new and more efficient patterns of movement. Ultimately Dr Feldenkrais was not just interested in flexible bodies but in flexible minds.
In her work as a Physiotherapist, Ms Krantz finds that the Feldenkrais Method is particularly helpful for people with chronic pain issues such as back pain, headaches, shoulder pain and hip pain.
“Feldenkrais looks at the whole body and how the different body parts work in relation to each other” said Ms Krantz. “Instead of focusing on the pain itself, the focus is on pain-free, comfortable movement. The relaxing and enjoyable movements have a positive effect on physical and mental well being, helping break the vicious cycle of pain, tension and poor posture, which often occurs with chronic pain.”
Ms Krantz has been invited to present another workshop for the Australian Physiotherapy Association on the Feldenkrais Method in 2015 on the topic of Feldenkrais for Chronic Pain. She will also present a Chronic Pain workshop for the Australian Feldenkrais Guild next year.
My Experience of Varicose Veins Surgery
My Experience of Varicose Veins Surgery – by Jodie Krantz
Deciding on a procedure
It was with some hesitation that I finally decided to undergo surgical stripping of the short saphenous vein in my right calf. Although my varicose veins were not severe or painful the faulty and unsightly valves had been growing in size and number over the previous two years. I was also experiencing some swelling in my leg during hot weather and plane flights.
When I first met with my surgeon I was hoping he would suggest injection therapy or laser treatment. These procedures seemed a lot less invasive, however my surgeon explained that injection therapy was far less successful and that patients often had to return for many treatments before a good result was obtained.
Laser therapy was not recommended for this particular vein, because laser treatment involves heat which potentially could damage the common peroneal nerve which lies close to the short saphenous vein.
What my surgeon told me
Surgical stripping, my surgeon explained, was usually a day stay procedure with return to work possible within 1 to 2 weeks.
The surgery would be performed with me lying on my stomach but I would wake up on my back. It would result in a small incision behind the back of my knee where the vein would be tied. I would also have several small incisions in the back of my calf for the removal of each of the faulty valves. The incisions would be closed with dissolving stitches and / or steri strips. Afterwards I could expect some bruising and swelling which would be controlled with bandaging, followed by wearing a surgical stocking continuously for the first 3 days. After this time it was recommended that I wear the stockings during the day for the first 10 to 14 days removing them if required for comfort at night. I was encouraged to massage the leg generally with Hirudoid cream to assist with the resolution of the bruises.
Regular walking would be important the 6 weeks following the surgery in order to re-establish the circulation in my leg. Exercise would help to reduce the swelling and to divert the circulation to alternative veins. My surgeon told me there was a 90 percent chance that the varicose vein would not recur.
CLICK HERE if you are looking for an Exercise Programme following Varicose Vein Surgery
My experience of varicose vein surgery
Due to having neck issues I requested the use of a face hole during the procedure, rather than have my head turned to one side. I awoke after the surgery without any pain. Soon I realised that my leg was very numb and that I couldn’t move my toes or foot upwards or outwards. Some numbness was to be expected, however I had complete sensory and motor loss in the distribution of the common peroneal nerve.
The nursing staff were excellent. They released my bandages thinking that they might be too tight. My surgeon visited me and explained that they had injected a local anaesthetic and that this was the probable cause of my foot drop. It would take about 6 hours to wear off.
In actual fact it took almost 24 hours before I began to regain the ability to move my foot normally, so I had to stay in hospital overnight. I walked with a lopsided limp, somewhat like a stroke patient. I was very anxious and already planning my rehabilitation! However it turned out my surgeon was right and complete movement and sensation came back when the anaesthetic wore off.
The rest of my post operative recovery was without further complication, however the bruising was a lot more severe and painful than I expected. I felt this aspect was down played by my surgeon. In retrospect I would not go through this surgery again unless the veins were really painful.
Beginning my rehabilitation exercises
The only instructions I was given were to walk for at least 30 minutes everyday for the first 6 weeks. Once the local anaesthetic wore off, putting any weight on my leg was very painful despite regular analgesia. I was unsure whether to attempt 30 minutes of walking on the day after the surgery. As a physio I was disappointed that more information was not given about post operative exercises.
It made more sense that the exercise should be progressed gradually over the first week. The problems I encountered included severe bruising with large lumps in the calf where the valves had been, marked tightness of my muscles and fascia and a tendency to walk with a limp. As a result I developed an exercise program to help others in the same situation to recover from varicose vein surgery.
Five years later – very happy with the outcome
It is now five years since I had the varicose vein surgery. There has been no recurrence of the varicose veins and the scars are almost invisible. Overall I’m very happy with the outcome.
Read more about Exercise following Varicose Vein Surgery
Jodie in Borneo February 2014
Jodie in Borneo February 2014
Feldenkrais in the heart of Borneo
I recently had the privilege of travelling with Malaysian friends into the heart of the Borneo jungle to the land of the headhunters.
Our trip took us to Bintulu in Sarawak, then across to Julau and up the ‘Batang Rajang’ river to small villages only accessible via longboat. Our host, Amal, skillfully guided the motorised long-boat up through shallow rapids, under the beautiful and dense canopy of the jungle.
Amal lives with his wife and her sister. Amal is in his late 60s and has lost quite a few teeth. Both women are about 80 years only. He and his family are from a tribe known as the Iban. Prior to arrival of Catholic missionaries in the area, the Iban were headhunters. They speak their own tribal language, will little Malay or English spoken except by the children, who go to primary school via long-boat.
Today they are hunter-gatherers, farming rice and pepper and living off the land, with a diet of rice, wild pig, monkey, frogs, river snails, palm shoots and fern shoots. Amal looks after the Catholic chapel, right next door to his house. A doctor only comes up the river twice a year. The electricity is only on for a few hours a day when the generator is running.
Amal’s sister in law was only known to us as ‘Ibo’, a friendly Iban term for ‘older woman’, because it is forbidden to speak the name of your parents in-law. I did some Feldenkrais with her to see if I could assist with her problem of ‘kicking in her sleep’. I’m guessing this was restless leg syndrome or a sleep disorder.
Amal’s wife, also known to us only as ‘Ibo’ had neck and shoulder pain from carrying things such as sacks of rice up to 50 kg on her head, neck and shoulders.
I gave her 2 Feldenkrais lessons and left her with my contoured memory foam travel pillow!
Word got around about my work and when we visited the long-house on the other side of the river, 2 women presented themselves to me for Feldenkrais. One could barely walk, due to severe knee pain – she could not afford to have a knee replacement. She had grossly swollen legs, foot pain on both sides and lower back pain.
At first she was extremely nervous and jumpy when I touched her, so I used micro-movements and kept my own hands and whole body as soft as possible, looking to her face for any signs that I might be causing any additional pain.
There was not a lot I could do in one session but I chose to show her a relatively pain-less way to roll over from side to side in bed and a simpler and less painful way to get up from the floor.
My second client at the long-house was a woman, approximately 30 years old, with a swollen ankle. It was difficult to ask questions due to the language barrier. I presumed she had sprained it, especially with the slippery river rocks and treacherous stairs down to the river’s edge, but perhaps it was gout. I gave her a Feldenkrais lesson on finding the optimal alignment of ankle, knee and hip and left her with an exercise of trying to balance on one foot with her eyes closed.
I found out that the local people do not have access to eye testing or spectacles. Common medical problems include vitamin deficiencies, intestinal worms, arthritis and tooth decay. They also need education about the harmful effects of smoking and alcohol.
My plan on returning to Australia is to see if I can get Equal Health to take a team of medical volunteers to the area, including doctors, dentists, nurses and physiotherapists. I went with Equal Health to Trichy in Tamil Nadu, India in 2011 as a volunteer physiotherapist.
