Empowering All Abilities and Ages through Technology- In the realm of healthcare, a transformation is underway that's levelling the playing field for individuals of all abilities and ages. Gone are the days when only professional athletes benefited from cutting-edge technology. This progressive shift stems from a realisation that everyone deserves access to the same high level of care and support. Why should these advancements be reserved solely for athletes, when they can potentially revolutionise health outcomes for all?
Physiotherapists can use technology to objectively test muscle power, range and symmetrical body condition. These readings create a digital analysis of the test allowing the physiotherapist to tailor-make an exercise programme that is uploaded onto your cell phone via an App, complete with videos plus written instructions. The use of technology along with clinical reasoning and physiotherapy can benefit all individuals, whether aiming to improve range of motion, balance, strength, or power. This concept has gained momentum as professionals recognise that utilising technology to complement their treatment can yield optimal results and an Australian company called VALD has made this possible.
VALD introduces a computerised system centred around innovative devices like the handheld dynamometry device, aptly named DynaMo. This dynamic device seamlessly sends real-time data directly to a smartphone. The raw data is converted into comprehensive reports and illustrative graphs. These invaluable insights become the cornerstone of the physiotherapist's analysis, culminating in an individualised exercise plan.
Upon formulating the personalised exercise regimen, an email lands in your inbox, bearing an effortlessly accessible download button. Through this simple step, the exercises find their way to an App that grants access to the individualised exercise programme complete with detailed instructions and videos.
With the DynaMo, a smartphone, and a computer physiotherapists have objective data which serves as the cornerstone for developing a comprehensive hypothesis and for laying the foundation for personalised exercise programmes tailored to the individual for the purpose of addressing deficiencies.
This innovative approach has witnessed a remarkable transformation in patient engagement. Australian Physiotherapist Mick Hughes (2023) writes “The patients, I feel, have bought into rehabilitation better and are excited about reviewing their progress every month, knowing that they will be tested. Having these regular monthly check-ins enables us to motivate and progress rehab in a clear and concise way.”
A patient's journey toward better health can sometimes feel discouraging, especially when weeks of effort yield no visible changes. However, the introduction of quantifiable data has changed the narrative. The ability to tangibly observe and measure progress every couple of weeks during re-assessment has become a game-changer. The correlation between objective data and meaningful milestones, such as improved strength for daily activities, has breathed new life into the rehabilitation process.
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, technology is proving to be the great equaliser. The boundaries that once separated elite athletes from the rest of the population are dissolving, paving the way for comprehensive and personalised care for all. We are excited at Debbie Cameron Physiotherapy about the transformative power of technology such as the Dynamo to assist us with our aim that every individual, regardless of their abilities or age, can achieve their health and wellness goals.
References:
Bagordo et al Isokinetic Dynamometry as a Tool to Predict Shoulder Injury in an Overhead Athlete Population: A Systematic Review Sports (2020), 8, 124
Chamorro et al Absolute Reliability and Concurrent Validity of Hand-Held Dynamometry in Shoulder Rotator Strength Assessment: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health (2021), 18, 9293 https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/17/9293
Lesnak et al Validity of hand-held dynamometry in measuring quadriceps strength and rate of torque development Int. J. Sports Physical Therapy (2019) vol 14, No 2, 180
McBride et al Intra and Inter-Rater Reliability of a Novel Isometric Test of Neck Strength Sports (2023), 11, 2
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