Why having a good bra is key
We are pleased to welcome Megan Howard, Respiratory and Oncology Physiotherapist, to the TRP team!
What is respiratory physiotherapy?
Respiratory physiotherapy is a field of physiotherapy that specialises in the assessment and treatment of diseases in the heart and lungs that can affect the process of breathing, as well as reduce exercise tolerance and quality of life. Respiratory physiotherapists are trained to assess, evaluate and provide treatment that can assist to improve the ease of breathing, clear airway congestion, and assist in maintaining physical mobility. They can also assist in recovery following chest and abdominal surgery, and in chronic disease. Respiratory physiotherapists work closely with your doctor, respiratory specialist or surgeon to help you understand your condition, how to manage it long-term, and how to prevent complications.
What is oncology physiotherapy?
Oncology physiotherapists specialise in treating people with a current or past diagnosis of cancer. It is now well-established in the research that exercising during cancer can improve survival rates. Oncology physiotherapists understand the effects of cancer and cancer treatment on the body and the overall wellbeing of a person. They are sensitive to the needs of the individual, and can tailor an exercise program that is safe, appropriate and enjoyable for someone to undertake during their cancer journey.
How can Megan Howard help me?
Our Respiratory & Oncology physiotherapist, Megan Howard, brings over 15 years experience to Thompsons Road Physiotherapy.
Megan uses a range of physiotherapy treatment techniques to assist patients with airway clearance and management of shortness of breath, exercise prescription for improved breathing and functional capacity, and lifestyle advice to improve chronic disease management. She can also assess and advise patients regarding use of airway clearance devices and correct inhaler use. Common respiratory conditions she can treat include:
- COPD
- Bronchiectasis
- Respiratory infection
- Cystic fibrosis
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- Oncology-specific exercise rehabilitation and physical capacity assessment
Megan also has significant experience in oncology physiotherapy. As mentioned above, there is strong evidence for the safety of exercise in cancer patients, as well as improved survival rates and quality of life for patients who undertake exercise during cancer treatment. A recent study showed that people who completed over 2.5 hours of moderate intensity exercise per week reduced their risk of death by 35%. In addition to this, regular exercise during cancer can assist with:
- Improved physical function
- Improved mood
- Reduced fatigue
- Improved quality of life
Megan’s thorough assessment and understanding of specific cancers allows her to prescribe individualised exercise programs to ensure safety and appropriateness. With her clinical experience in oncology, Megan is adept at engaging her patients in exercise programs that are safe for them.
If you would like to make an appointment to see Megan, please contact us here, or call directly. Ph: (03) 9850 4437.
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