A few examples of the technology include: the ZeroG® Gait and Balance System which helps protect from falls while providing body-weight support so clients can focus on walking, balancing, and even climbing stairs in a safe, controlled environment, the DIEGO®, a robotic upper limb device that supports cognitive rehabilitation by stimulating neuroplastic changes in the brain, or the RecoveryVR®, designed to improve rehabilitation, pain management and psychological wellbeing through virtual reality
Rebecca puts marathon mindset to use Gratitude keeps Chris motivated on his rehab journey
ISSUE 5 • SEP 2022
If you or your patients would like more information, please visit royalrehablifeworks.com.au or call us on 1800 518 180.
at Royal Rehab and MetroRehab Hospital
The new era of rehabilitation inAustraliaWhat’snewRoyalRehab and MetroRehab Hospital collaborate with Stroke survivors, the Stroke Recovery Association NSW and the Carer Gateway
The multidisciplinary programs offered through Royal Rehab LifeWorks include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, recreational therapy, dietetics, psychosexual counselling and more.
Rehab Matters
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Our approach is to work closely with clients to understand their needs and specific goals to tailor programs that may include advanced technology integrated with traditional therapies, all with the aim of improved patient outcomes.
Visit our royalrehablifeworks.com.aumetrorehab.com.auroyalrehab.com.auwebsites
What’s new
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We are excited to share the news that we have opened the doors to our brand new, purpose-built technology centre within our Ryde campus. The centre is home to 25 pieces of advanced technology equipment and forms part of our multidisciplinary rehab service under the banner Royal Rehab LifeWorks.
LifeWorks can assist people recovering from neurological injury or disease, orthopaedic injury or lifelong disability. Programs and services can be funded through the NDIS or icare. Clients may also choose to self-fund.
Spotlight on our health professionals
We’re now seeing, in real-time, the impact advanced technologies can have in improving rehabilitation outcomes for people living with life-changing disabilities, illnesses or injuries.
The centre is home to twenty-five of the most advanced technology aids for rehabilitation and general strength and conditioning, from robotic exoskeletons and body weight support systems to virtual reality technologies. The purpose-built hub allows us to provide Australians needing rehabilitation and wellbeing services with access to worldleading devices, many of which have never been seen in this country.Bycoupling
the recent launch of our Advanced Technology Centre, under the banner Royal Rehab LifeWorks – the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere – Australia is finally catching up.
We’re now seeing, in real-time, the impact advanced technologies can have in improving rehabilitation outcomes for people living with life-changing disabilities, illnesses or injuries.
And while the Australian health system continues to go from strength to strength, the rehabilitation equipment available to Australian patients has not evolved as quickly as it has Thanksoverseas.to
There has never been a more exciting time to be working in Australia’s rehabilitation and disability space. With the rapid development of new advanced technologies, at Royal Rehab we’re changing the way we deliver rehabilitation services and helping patients achieve their goals at an accelerated rate.
Supporting innovation is paramount as we continue to focus on quality of life for our clients. This is why we’re committed to integrating technology into the programs we offer. Over the past two years, we’ve been investing in the training and development of our staff to ensure they are able to implement bespoke programs, leverage immerging innovations and provide the very best care to our clients.
advanced technologies with traditional therapies, patients are able to work on personalised goals like being able to stand unassisted, transfer themselves into wheelchairs and overall increase their independence at a faster rate. The road to recovery has become a lot smoother for our clients thanks to the support of these technologies in combination with our expert clinicians.
Matt Mackay
235 Morrison Road
2112 p | 02 9808 9222 w | royalrehab.com.au
The new era of rehabilitation in Australia Ryde, NSW
From allowing clients to achieve greater repetitions during therapy to helping clinicians develop more creative therapy programs - there is no denying that technology can be a powerful tool to help improve patient outcomes.
It’s important that new approaches to rehabilitation, especially those that can help sustain a patient’s engagement in therapy and improve functional independence and quality of life, are embraced broadly by the sector.
Through use of advanced technologies, clients are able to move earlier on in their rehabilitation journey or in ways previously thought to be too difficult. Additionally, the element of support offered by these technologies during therapy means clients also experience a sense of safety.
Technology and innovation will play a primary role in the evolution of Royal Rehab. By introducing technology into our programs, we can help people living with a disability, illness or injury gain as much functional independence as possible and live life to the fullest.
By Matt Mackay, CEO of Royal Rehab
Over the past decade, we’ve seen how robotics, virtual reality applications and exoskeletons have become an integral part of rehab programs in other countries and the role they’ve played in taking recovery, strength and mobility to a whole new level.
The opening of the centre cements our commitment to being a leader in innovation within the aanddisabilityrehabilitationAustralianandspace.Byadoptingnewtechnologiesadaptingtochange,wecancontinuestrivingtowardsourvisionofcreatingworldwithoutlimitsforpeoplewithdisability,illnessandinjury.
This series marks our commitment to empowering our stroke community, health and disability networks and service providers to come together and share tips and learnings in a collaborative effort.
You don’t have to go far, to go far.
As part of National Stroke Week 8-14 August, the team at Royal Rehab and MetroRehab Hospital hosted a month-long webinar series dedicated to stroke survivors, carers, families and health Titledprofessionals.“Precious
To find out more about our stroke programs, contact Royal Rehab Ryde on (02) 9808 9222 or MetroRehab Hospital on (02) 8585 4900 today.
In addition to the webinar series, as part of NSW Stroke Awareness Week 9-11 September, we ran a virtual challenge in partnership with Stroke Recovery Association NSW called “Reps to Recovery” which encouraged stroke survivors to set personal goals and increase practice to boost their stroke recovery and improve stroke prevention.
Royal Rehab and MetroRehab Hospital collaborate with Stroke survivors, the Stroke Recovery Association NSW and the Carer Gateway
Local access to world-class rehab and therapy services at Royal Rehab LifeWorks, Ryde. royalrehablifeworks.com.au1800518180
Hosted virtually, the series included a range of topics that were selected based on feedback from stroke survivors and designed to complement therapies and information provided by their clinical teams. The topics, designed to educate and empower our stroke community to enjoy life on their recovery journey, included education on support groups and services, and stories and learnings from other stroke survivors.
- Virginia Agosti, the Neurological Rehabilitation Care Coordinator at MetroRehab Hospital
Moments” in line with the National Stroke Week theme, the webinar series highlighted the importance of celebrating the precious moments you have with your loved ones no matter where you are on your stroke recovery journey.
275 Addison Road Petersham, NSW 2049 p | 02 8585 4900 w | metrorehab.com.au ”
“ Exposing stroke survivors to services they can benefit from, whilst helping to build networks and community in a supportive forum was found to be beneficial and we look forward to continuing to provide our stroke survivor community with similar offerings in the future.
It was Rebecca’s second stroke at age 44 that led to her experience at MetroRehab Hospital.
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“I suffered a series of minor strokes which led me to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital 3 times. I started my rehab at MetroRehab as an outpatient for only a week before I was back in hospital due to an internal bleed and unfortunately had a major stroke there. After spending a total of 7 weeks in the ICU, I was released from hospital and was straight back into rehab at MetroRehab.”
I knew I was going to need to work with the right healthcare professionals, so I was the first person to put my hand up for rehab. MetroRehab Hospital was a recommendation through RPA’s stroke ward. With such a fantastic reputation, a senior team and so close to home, I knew exactly what I wanted and what I had to do. ”
235 Morrison Road Ryde, NSW 2112 p | 02 9808 9222 w | royalrehab.com.au
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Rebecca commenced MetroRehab’s inpatient program just before Christmas and spent a total of three weeks at the hospital. Having had a stroke in the past, Rebecca was aware of the work ahead of her and was proactive in her approach to rehab.
Rebecca was just twenty-four years of age when she suffered her first stroke, discovering that she had polycythemia, a rare blood disorder which causes the blood to thicken, increasing the risk of clotting and bleeding. Since that life-altering moment, Rebecca has been on blood thinners and aspirin, and undergone venesection procedures, where blood is removed from the body to manage her condition.
“I’m very lucky because I had an amazing group of physiotherapists with me on this journey, a very supportive family and an incredible husband. I can’t thank my husband enough and I am very lucky to have him as my wingman.”
“Ifprogress.Iwantto achieve something, I’ll put my mind to it. This applied to me in marathons and applies to me in rehab! Taking that mentality into this real-life situation has meant my recovery has been fast and I feel like I can achieve these goals, even if they are lofty.”
Following discharge, Rebecca attended the day program at MetroRehab Hospital twice a week with regular physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and occupational therapy to continue to improve her mobility and fine motor skills and the goal of “getting some sort of normal back”. This included driving, going out to the shops and getting back to running.
consisted of a range of allied health therapies including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, hydrotherapy, and psychology. She notes herself as someone who is self-motivating and credits the team’s support for her
“I was told by other patients that I’m a real motivator. That made me happy and all the more motivated!”
“I had to relearn the whole motion of standing up and taking steps. At the time, I didn’t know whether walking was even possible. The part of being in rehab during Christmas and New Year’s was those goals were achieved during a pivotal time, so yes, for Christmas I got to go to the toilet on my own and I could walk Rebecca’sthere!”program
275 Addison Road Petersham, NSW 2049 p | 02 8585 4900 w | metrorehab.com.au
When Rebecca commenced her inpatient program, she had no function on the left side of her body and could not walk. After only three weeks, she was able to walk and go to the bathroom independently. Her long-term goals include returning to some of her hobbies which include running, swimming, and driving.
Rebecca also credits her husband and extended family for their ongoing support.
For more information on MetroRehab Hospital, please contact us on (02) 8585 4900.
“I really didn’t know what to expect with rehab since I’ve never had to do it before. I wasn’t sure of the journey and I still don’t know what the future holds for me. But you just go with it and see where it’ll take you. I put my trust in their hands.”
For Chris, the biggest challenge was acceptance. “Accepting what’s happened has been difficult. You’re learning a whole different way of living. It becomes a new normal, but I’d certainly like to go back to how I was. I’m still improving and pushing through. I keep getting better and better and I’m sure in time I will get there.”
Limited access to friends and family during an unpredictable pandemic was another challenge that Chris encountered.
At the time, Chris had severely impacted his spine from the chest down (T4). His initial goals included trying to do transfers in and out of bed, learning to adapt to a wheelchair, and managing his bathroom self-care as independently as possible.
Chris came to rehab with an open mind and collaborated with a multi-disciplinary team of rehab specialist doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and dietitians on a tailored program designed to improve his functional independence and self-care.
Despite these challenges, Chris praises the staff at Royal Rehab for supporting him in navigating this new and unfamiliar journey with unwavering care.
“When we weren’t allowed to have visitors, the nurses were unbelievable and really tried to help make you feel more connected and not so disconnected from everyone. It never felt like a problem, and they were always so genuine in their care.”
Gratitude keeps Chris motivated on his rehab journey
235 Morrison Road Ryde, NSW 2112 p | 02 9808 9222 w | royalrehab.com.au
Chris was always a family man with a positive and comewhat-may outlook on life. Husband and father of two boys, Chris loved nothing more than spending time with his family, creating home-cooked meals and riding his motorbike.
“My idea of independence is being able to return home to be with my family and not have them commit to being my carers.”
Chris spent a total of 8 months at Royal Rehab and day by day, he remained focussed on his progress. “Where I am now was not where I started and I’m happy to see the progress. But where I am now is also not where I’ll be all the time. I am motivated in continuing to improve.”
But in June 2021, Chris’ world was turned upside down when he was involved in a motorcycle accident which resulted in a spinal cord injury. Following emergency surgery, Chris spent 5 weeks in acute care at Royal North Shore Hospital. When he was strong enough to be discharged, Chris was transferred to Royal Rehab where he commenced his rehabilitation journey.
With a full and busy routine of physiotherapy, occupational therapy, dietetics and even hydrotherapy, Chris was able to slowly improve and get to where he is now. Currently, Chris is able to get himself in and out of bed, do his own self-care including showering, toileting and dressing himself. He is also able to slowly feel his muscles return a familiar state and has feeling down to just above his belly button (T9).
Chris’ outlook remains positive. “Things will slow down but life is going to be richer. I’m looking forward to getting back to some sort of normality and spending more time doing what I love. I’m grateful for every day and know everything will be okay.”
275 Addison Road Petersham, NSW 2049 p | 02 8585 4900 w | metrorehab.com.au ”
With the motivation from the Royal Rehab team, Chris was able to have many wins. Over the 8 months at Royal Rehab, he had slowly felt his strength increase. He was able to go outside unaided with the manual wheelchair and exercise in the courtyard in his own free time.
Chris would also like to commend his rehabilitation specialist, Doctor Grace Leong, who supported his journey authentically. “Doctor Leong was fantastic. She never gave false hope. She was always realistic but also very positive. She consistently reminded me how much I have improved and that was enough to keep me motivated. Her care was genuine.”
Now home, Chris is enjoying spending time with family and looks forward to returning to work and continuing to improve his functional independence.
I went to rehab feeling quite useless and not being able to do much for myself. I left rehab feeling more confident with a hopeful outlook knowing things will be better if I keep working towards my goals.
“I just wanted to have the best recovery. I just wanted to get as close to normal as I can. I just wanted to get up, stand and walk. Even just a few steps to make my life a little bit easier would be fantastic.”
“
For more information on Royal Rehab Hospital, contact us today on (02) 9808 9222.
Spotlight on our health professionals
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Teresa has been with Royal Rehab for over 10 years . As the shecoordinatorreferralis
Assistant in Nursing
Aimee Grech Social Worker
Visit our websites royalrehablifeworks.com.aumetrorehab.com.auroyalrehab.com.au
course at HKL College in India in 2002. She also completed a Certificate III in Health Services (Assistant in Acute Care) from Capital Careers Pty Ltd NSW in 2020. Harjinder has over 20 years of experience in nursing, with 13 of those years spent at MetroRehab. In her day-to-day, she is responsible for assisting clients with activities such as bathing and dressing. She also works closely with TAFE students on their nursing Harjinderplacements.ispassionate about working with patients in a personalised way to help them improve their functioning and achieve their rehab goals with the support of the entire Metro team.
working in a multidisciplinary team to provide holistic care, and learning new ways to engage clients in their rehab experience through assistive Teresatechnologies.Murtagh
physiotherapist in 2021. She graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the Australian Catholic University. With over 5 years’ experience working as a physiotherapist and clinical educator in an inpatient rehabilitation setting, Jessica is particularly interested in managing neurological and orthopaedic conditions as well as working with people with an amputation. Jessica is passionate about improving clients’ quality of life through movement and exercise,
Rehab. She graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) (Honours) from the University of Sydney. Emma has over 6 years of experience as an occupational therapist, with 5 of those years being within a rehabilitation, aged care, and stroke services environment. Emma has also spent a year working at Blacktown Mount Druitt Hospital’s emergency department on a pilot program, with the aim of supporting people in their return home. She enjoys working with patients collaboratively to get them back to the activities they wish to return to and finds fulfilment in achieving patient goals.
responsible for building and fostering relationships with both clients and referrers. Teresa graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing from Sheffield University Hospital in England, followed by post-graduate diplomas in neuronursing from Southampton University Hospital and in acute care at University of Technology Sydney. Teresa came to Australia in the late 1990s and started working at Dalcross Private Hospital and Royal North Shore Hospital in her speciality of neurosurgical nursing. Teresa enjoys working with Royal Rehab’s talented and multidisciplinary team of clinicians, meeting patients and their families, and preparing them for their rehab journey.
Jessica Dang Physiotherapist
Emma Coyne Senior Occupational Therapist
235 Morrison Road, Ryde NSW 2112 02 9808 9222 | royalrehab.com.au Follow us on: 275 Addison Road, Petersham NSW 2049 02 8585 4900 | metrorehab.com.au Follow us on:
Emma joined Royal Rehab in 2021 as a centrethetherapistoccupationalseniorforDayRehabatRoyal
finding her way back to MetroRehab Hospital. Over the years, Aimee has supervised many university students and facilitated professional development seminars for social workers around themes like domestic violence and elder abuse. The most enjoyable part of Aimee’s role is building therapeutic relationships with clients and their families and facilitating positive change. She also credits the supportive team environment at MetroRehab which translates to a high level of service provided to patients and Harjinderfamilies.
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Aimee is a social worker at theSocialBachelor2010graduatedHospital.MetroRehabSheinwithaofWorkatUniversity of New South Wales. Aimee’s first role after graduation was at MetroRehab Hospital. She then moved to Liverpool Hospital and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital where she worked in areas such as stroke and neurology, drug health services and more before
Referral Coordinator