Welcome to another edition of the Parkdale Osteo Clinic (POC) Newsletter! Here's what's been happening…
Chris' Corner!
Ready for your minds to be blown…?
Well hold onto your seats for this…
I am here to tell you that I am voluntarily embracing some modern information technology and implementing it into my daily practice!
And how are you doing that, you may ask?
I’m sure most of you have heard about this thing called ‘AI’ and although a little part of me is terrified at the thought of it, another part of me acknowledges that it is a rapidly moving phenomenon that isn’t going to go away anytime soon. In fact, when you think about the ubiquitous nature of artificial intelligence, it is hard NOT to find it impacting our lives in some format. (Hey Siri, hey Google, hey Alexa…!!)
As a result, I have spent recent time exploring the various platforms in which an allied health clinic like ours can best utilise AI. Now does that mean the next time you enter the clinic you’ll be greeted by a robot?? Absolutely not!
What I am utilising is Heidi Health, which is an ambient clinical AI that transcribes visits and generates notes to save me time and allow for more focus on patient centred care. Here are some important points to note:
The platform is compliant with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) regulations, so you can be rest assured that your privacy remains confidential and is protected. The link below provides access to some FAQ’s relating to your data, audio storage and legal compliance.
When you arrive for your appointment with me, you will be reminded by our receptionist that the session will be audio recorded for transcribing purposes and I too will seek your consent for the recording at the commencement of the consultation. (*Please note this is NOT a compulsory requirement, if you do not feel comfortable with the notion then please let me know).
Once activated, the microphone on the laptop will pick up our conversation and immediately start transcribing. And this is where the magic happens… I’m no longer trying to furiously type away and overuse the ‘backspace’ button, rather, I am more engaged with you and we can dive into more efficient movement assessment and treatment, all whilst having meaningful conversation!
At the completion of the session, I simply stop the audio recording, Heidi analyses content and then…voila!, it presents me with treatment notes consistent with note taking quality that I have prided myself on for the past 24 years! At the literal ‘push’ of a button, your treatment note shifts over to our practice management software ‘Cliniko’ where it is then assigned to your file.
The software also has the capacity to compile referral letters, i.e. to GP’s or specialists, EPC letters and even provide you (the patient) with a concise summary of what transpired within the consultation, some information on the injury/condition/ailment you may be suffering with and a reminder as to some ‘DIY’ tips to assist with self-management.
So to my dear and valued patients, in particular my longstanding patients who may recall me once upon a time hand writing patient notes, this is a MASSIVE leap for me…in fact, my colleagues are all a bit gob smacked that it’s me, Parkdale’s veteran osteopath leading the AI charge. I am truly hopeful though that this pathway will be a WIN/WIN for you and me, as quality history taking is time consuming and burdensome (especially at the end of a long day!) and this will save me a huge chunk of time in my busy week. Additionally, the capacity to be more focused on you within the treatment room can only improve engagement and optimise my health delivery to you!
The greatest compliment we receive from our clients is the referral of their friends, family and work colleagues. Thank you for your support and trust.
MOVEMENT AS MEDICINE
Exercise as an anti-inflammatory intervention
Physical activity has emerged as one of the most effective strategies for combating chronic, low-grade inflammation. Exercise acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, helping to restore immune balance and support tissue repair.
Regular exercise also improves insulin sensitivity and enhances immune function, creating a positive feedback loop that reduces systematic inflammation. Studies show even moderate physical activity, such as 30 minutes of brisk walking or light cycling, significantly reduces inflammatory markers after as little as 12 weeks. These findings reinforce the value of physical activity for managing inflammatory conditions and support its inclusion as a standard recommendation in osteopathic care.
Clinical applications in osteopathic care
Educating patients on inflammation and lifestyle: Osteopaths are ideally positioned to help patients understand how diet, physical activity and environmental exposures influence inflammation. By explaining the health impacts of an inflammatory lifestyle, practitioners can empower patients to make choices that support their long-term wellness.
Prescribing movement as medicine: Osteopaths can develop tailored activity plans for patients, particularly those with arthritis, chronic pain, or other inflammation-related conditions. By recommending moderate, sustainable activity levels, practitioners can help patients decrease inflammatory markers and reduce disease risk.
Managing chronic pain: By promoting gentle, progressive movement, osteopaths can help patients manage pain without relying solely on pharmacological options, addressing both physical and mental aspects of chronic pain.
Osteopaths, with their unique understanding of body mechanics and the importance of mobility, can play a central role in guiding patients toward healthier, inflammation-reducing behaviours.
By advocating physical activity and lifestyle adjustments, osteopaths can address the root causes of inflammation, empowering patients with a balanced, effective pathway to health.
*References are available upon request
Free Masterclass: The Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause
For our female patients... have you noticed more aches, stiffness, or slower recovery as you move through midlife? Perhaps a frozen shoulder, plantar fasciitis or hip bursitis? You’re not alone - and it’s not “just aging.” Emerging research shows that declining oestrogen directly impacts your muscles, bones, cartilage, and joints, leading to what’s now called the Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause.
Join Dr Andrea Robertson, one of our Osteopaths, for an online free live Masterclass on Saturday 6th September at 7am AEST, where she’ll explain science behind the musculoskeletal changes of menopause and share practical, evidence-based steps you can take to stay strong, active, and pain-free for years to come.
The POC team recently enjoyed a fun night of dinner, drinks, bowling and arcade games at General Public. Who do you think was the winner on the night? Well.. despite claiming that he was no good at bowling, Osteo Cal took home the honours (not sure that says much about the rest of us!)
