Question 1

What am I required to bring to an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please bring any referrals and/or scans you have in relation to injury. You are not required to have either only bring them if you do.

Question 2

What do I wear to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Feel free to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and allows for easy movement during your session. If you have fitness-related goals, it's a good idea to wear your regular exercise attire and appropriate footwear to ensure we can work on your fitness effectively!

Pilates specifically:
We recommend you wear firm fitting clothing to allow us to see your movement clearly. We recommend ¾ or full-length leggings and a top. Shorts and crop-tops are not recommended. Please do not wear any make-up or jewellery to studio sessions that may damage/stain the equipment. Please wear hair tied back.

Question 3

Can I use my Private Health Insurance?

Accepted Answer

Physiotherapy consultation are covered under private health care insurance, you may need to contact your provider to determine your level of cover. If your health fund is not registered for HICAPS, we will supply you with a receipt to claim your rebate back. Please be aware that amounts vary between insurance companies and we recommend that you contact your insurer for more information regarding your individual cover.

The Physiotherapy code (Applicable for Women's Health Physio as well) for Initial Session is 500 and for Subsequent Session 505.
The Exercise Physiology Codes for Initial Session is 102 and for Subsequent Sessions 202

Please note Pilates and Massage Therapy is unable to be claimed.

Question 4

Can I use my Medicare Chronic Disease Management Plan?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you have a current chronic disease management plan from your GP for Physiotherapy or Exercise Physiology you can use it at our clinic.

Full payment of consult is required first, then if able we will complete the rebate and issue the rebate of $56 onto your nominated bank card (must have Cheque or Savings account).

If the claim is unable to be completed on the spot we will issue you with a receipt to claim online through your Medicare portal or at Medicare.

Question 5

What if I am running late or cannot make the appointment?

Accepted Answer

If you are running late, we ask that you contact us immediately by phone call or text message to let us know. If you are unable to make the appointment, please email, text or phone immediately. Cancellation policy applies if you do not attend your scheduled appointment.

Question 6

What happens if I cannot make the appointment? What is the cancellation Policy?

Accepted Answer

Our cancellation policy strictly requires a 24-hour notice for appointment changes. If you anticipate that you won't be able to make your scheduled appointment, please ensure you provide us with a 24-hour advance notice. Failing to do so will result in a cancellation fee, which amounts to 50% of the appointment's value if you give notice between 12-24 hours. If you provide less than 12 hours' notice or simply do not show up for your appointment without prior notification, you will be charged 100% of the consultation fee. Invoices for these fees will be promptly issued and must be settled upon receipt. If you have a pre-paid package, the applicable fee will be deducted from your remaining sessions.

This policy is in place to enable us to offer your appointment slot to other clients in need of immediate care. If we can successfully fill your appointment with another client, you will not be billed. Your cooperation in adhering to this policy is crucial to maintaining efficient scheduling for all our clients.

Question 7

What happens on the first visit?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your consult type and your presentation the initial visit will defer. 
Generally, on the first visit the physiotherapist/Exercise Physiologist/Massage Therapist/Pilates Instructor will ask you for detailed health history and discuss your injury and/or condition. A thorough assessment will be completed of your whole body, specifically site of pain will be conducted, and treatment commence as appropriate. 
You may be asked to expose the area of pain or another area as appropriate for the therapist to assess.
Your therapist will provide education throughout the session and set realistic goals and a plan with you.

Question 8

Will my Therapist treat more then one person at a time?

Accepted Answer

No, we pride ourselves on giving our clients 100% of our focus at all times.
The only exception is Duo Pilates Sessions, Dup Exercise Physiology Sessions and Group Mat Pilates Sessions.

Question 9

What payment methods are available?

Accepted Answer

Payment is required at the time of treatment. Payment can be made via the terminal or by cash. 
Women's Health Initial Consultations require a $60 deposit, this is to be made via stripe link at time of booking.

Question 10

How do I book a consultation?

Accepted Answer

Head to our bookings link, www.ripplepp.com.au/bookings

Question 11

When to see a Women's Health Physiotherapist?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, take a moment to answer the questions below:

• Do you leak when you cough or sneeze?
 • Do you feel a heaviness or dragging sensation in your lower abdominal region or around the opening to your vagina?
 • Have you ever noticed a bulge vaginally?
 • Do you struggle to make it to the toilet on time without leaking?
 • Do you ever get a sudden uncontrolled urge that you need to go to the toilet?
 • Do you wake frequently during the night to go to the toilet?
 • Do you struggle and strain on the toilet to empty your bowels?
 • Do you experience pain with intercourse?
 • Do you ever leak from your bladder or bowels
 • Are you planning on conceiving in the next few months?
 • Are you currently pregnant?
 • Have you ever given birth?
 • Have you noticed changes in your body down there since menopause?

If you answered yes to any of the above, you should see a Women's Health Physiotherapist.

More information on our blog: https://www.ripplepp.com.au/post/what-is-a-womens-health-physio (https://www.ripplepp.com.au/post/what-is-a-womens-health-physio)

Question 12

I need to cancel my appointment

Accepted Answer

Please respond to your automatic reminder via text to cancel your consult. A friendly reminder of our cancellation policy. You can see this again at https://www.ripplepp.com.au/faqs

Question 13

What conditions can a Women's Health Physiotherapist help with?

Accepted Answer

Women's health physiotherapy can help with a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:
 • Urinary incontinence (stress, urge, or mixed)
 • Pelvic organ prolapse
 • Pelvic pain (including conditions like vulvodynia and vestibulodynia)
 • Diastasis recti (abdominal separation)
 • Pre and postnatal care
 • Sexual dysfunction and pain during intercourse
 • Constipation and bowel dysfunction
 • Endometriosis and menstrual related pain

Question 14

How much do Women's Health Physio sessions cost?

Accepted Answer

Women's Health Physio Rates:
Initial Consultations $165
Extended 1hr Review Consultations $165
Extended 45min Review Consultations $145
Standard 30min Review Consultations $125

Question 15

Can I still come if I have my menstrual cycle (Period)?

Accepted Answer

Of course! We regularly assess and treat women throughout their cycle. In fact if you are seeing us for menstrual cycle pain it can be best to see us during to allow us delve into the root cause of your pain.

Question 16

Do I need a referral from my GP or OBGYN?

Accepted Answer

No referral is necessary.

Question 17

Is an internal pelvic floor examination necessary?

Accepted Answer

An internal examination is not always necessary, and it depends on the specific condition and the assessment findings. It can help give us thorough information about what is happening and why. However, if you are uncomfortable it is NOT a requirement and we can work with external tools such as Range of motion, ultrasound examination and patient self assessment to find out more.

Question 18

When should I come in during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

We are able to see you anytime throughout your pregnancy for any aches, pains or discomforts you may be experiencing. 
However, if you are seeking a pelvic floor examination we recommend from 20wks onwards. 
Generally, we see women *if able pre-pregnancy, 20wks, 28wks, 34wks & 38wks.

We review post partum, around 4wks.

Question 19

Is Women's Health Physiotherapy safe during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, women's health physiotherapy can be safe and beneficial during pregnancy. It can help address issues like pelvic girdle pain, back pain, and prepare the pelvic floor for childbirth.

It's important to remember that every individual and condition is unique, so it's essential to consult with a qualified women's health physiotherapist for a personalized assessment and treatment plan.

Question 20

When do I come in post partum?

Accepted Answer

We recommend around 4 weeks post partum ideally. If you have significant pain you can see us from 2wks post partum.

Question 21

Is Physiotherapy for me?

Accepted Answer

Whether you have injured yourself playing sport, doing everyday activities or at work we are able to help. It may be a new injury or old injury that has recently caused you increased discomfort or pain. Our Hawkesbury physiotherapists are able to assist in returning you back to your previous capabilities.
If you have sustained a significant injury, our Hawkesbury based Physiotherapists will assess the extent of the injury and if necessary, refer you onto a specialist.
 
Physiotherapists are often sought for assessment, advice and instruction on improvement of their posture, muscle imbalances and strengthening. Vist our Oakville Physio clinic today

Question 22

What areas do you treat?

Accepted Answer

Women's Health
 • Pregnancy related musculoskeletal conditions you may experience before, during and following pregnancy, including:
    • Neck and shoulder pain related to Postural Dysfunction
    • Pelvic girdle pain including SIJ or Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction
    • Low back pain
    • Hip pain
    • Wrist pain/over-use injuries including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and DeQuervains Tenosynovitis.
 • Abdominal Separation you may experience during or following pregnancy
 • Incontinence and Prolapse
 • Bowel related conditions including constipation
 • Pelvic floor dysfunction
 • Exercise during and following pregnancy
Musculoskeletal:
 • Back & Neck Pain
 • Disc Bulges and Sciatica
 • Migraines and Whiplash
 • Headaches
 • Shoulder Pain
 • Rotator Cuff Injuries and Dislocations
 • Knee Ligament strains
 • Meniscal cartilage tears and Patello-femoral pain
 • Ankle Sprains
 • Achilles Tendonitis
 • Foot strains/pain
 • Heel pain – Plantar fasciitis
 • Biomechanical Foot Problems and Shin Splints
 • Muscle strains
 • Imbalances and Muscle re-education
 • Recovery from Fractures
 • Orthopaedic and Re-constructive Surgery
 • Joint Replacements (Shoulder, Elbow, Hand, Hip, Knee, Ankle)
 • Osteoarthritis (Rheumatoid, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Psoriatic, SLE, Polymyalgia Rheumatica)
 • Hip pain and Sacro-iliac dysfunctions
 
Vestibular Conditions 
 • Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

Question 23

What do I wear to my Physiotherapy appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please wear comfortable and flexible clothing. Please bring a pair of shorts with you if you have a lower limb injury as you may be asked to change into them.

Question 24

What is the price of your general Physio consults?

Accepted Answer

Every session is differently priced based. Pricing is visible at time of booking.

Question 25

Do I need to see a Doctor prior to starting Physiotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Physiotherapists in Australia are first contact practitioners qualified and skilled in the management of musculoskeletal injury and dysfunction as well as women’s health conditions. However, our team will ask you about who you Doctor is so that your Doctor is informed about your condition and progress. If your problem is related to WorKCover, DVA, EPC or CTP you will require a GP referral and appropriate proof of liability.

Question 26

What happens in my first session?

Accepted Answer

On the first visit the physiotherapist will ask you for detailed health history and discuss your injury and/or condition. A thorough assessment will be completed of your whole body, specifically site of pain will be conducted, and treatment commence as appropriate. Treatment within the first session generally involves hands on soft tissue work, joint mobilisations and/or dry needling. You may be asked to expose the area of pain or another area as appropriate for the therapist to access. Your Hawkesbury physiotherapist will provide education throughout the session and set realistic goals and a plan with you.

Question 27

What am I required to bring to a group Mat Pilates Session

Accepted Answer

Please bring your own mat 6mm is recommended, towel, water bottle and optional grip socks. All products can be purchased directly through Ripple Physio & Pilates.

Question 28

What am I required to bring to Rehab/Studio sessions?

Accepted Answer

Please bring your own towel, water bottle and grip socks (Required). If you do not own grip socks you can purchase directly through Ripple Physio & Pilates.

Question 29

What do I wear to Pilates sessions?

Accepted Answer

We recommend you wear firm fitting clothing to allow us to see your movement clearly. We recommend ¾ or full-length leggings and a top. Shorts and crop-tops are not recommended. Please do not wear any make-up or jewellery to studio sessions that may damage/stain the equipment. Please wear hair tied back.

Question 30

What is the associated cost of the sessions?

Accepted Answer

Every session is differently priced. Pricing can be seen on selection of appointment on the booking page www.ripplepp.com.au/bookings

Question 31

What is the difference between Rehab/Studio Sessions and Mat Sessions?

Accepted Answer

Mat sessions are an all-inclusive program delivered in a group setting whereas, the rehab/studio are tailored to your body’s requirement and delivered in a private or semi-private session. Please see the ‘Pilates’ tab for further information on this.

Question 32

I currently watch online videos, Youtube and/or book to do Pilates. What is the difference to participating in your sessions?"

Accepted Answer

There are many amazing books and videos available to the general public. However, what these resources are lacking is visual, tactical and verbal feedback, the ability to provide modifications for your body and guide you through the movements. A good instructor will not do the class with you. The instructor is there to instruct, not use the class as their own exercise program. Our instructors will demonstrate as required, use hands on cueing to adjust body positioning and a variety of cues to help you achieve the most from your sessions.

Question 33

Do I require previous Pilates or Exercise experience?

Accepted Answer

No experience is necessary. We will guide and instruct you through the exercises.

Question 34

I have an injury am I able to do Pilates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Pilates is a fantastic rehabilitation tool for all injuries. If you have an injury it is required you complete an initial rehab/studio session to clarify your capabilities. At the end of the session the instructor will discuss if rehab/studio and/or mat class would be most suitable for you.

Question 35

I have a health condition is it safe for me to do Pilates?

Accepted Answer

Pilates is a safe form of exercise when prescribed appropriately. Our instructors will be able to assist and modify exercises for your condition. Please contact us with your exact condition and we will be able to provide further information on how/if we can help. We may ask you for a letter from your GP for clearance to exercise. 
If we do not have the knowledge/experience required for your specific concern we will refer on to the appropriate medical professional.

Question 36

What is the difference between Ripple Pilates Instructors versus others?

Accepted Answer

Ripple Physio & Pilates Instructors are fully qualified Pilates Instructors recognised by the Australian government. This means that they have completed over 1000hours of course content, self-mastery, apprentice teaching and observation; as well as having completed a theoretical and practical examination. We have our certificates within our studio and are happy discuss our qualifications with you further on request.

Question 37

Is Pilates for Males too?

Accepted Answer

Of course! Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates for both males and females, as well as all ages and exercise abilities.

Question 38

Is Pilates and Yoga the same thing?

Accepted Answer

No, this is like asking if cats and dogs are the same. While there are some similarities, yoga focuses on the six orthodox schools in Hindu philosophy. It is based on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and aims to use meditation to attain spiritual insight and tranquillity. Yoga focuses on flexibility and mobility.
 
Pilates focuses on the development of core control, stability and the creation of dynamic, functional total body movement. Through Pilates we develop postural strength and endurance (perfect for desk workers) as well as mobility and flexibility. Pilates targets the whole body with attention to deeper intrinsic muscles that are often neglected within strength training programs.

Question 39

What is the difference between Pilates and Strength Training e.g. lifting weights?

Accepted Answer

Strength training usually focuses on the large global prime mover muscle groups whereas, Pilates targets the deeper intrinsic muscle groups. For correct body function and muscle patterning we are required to have both groups working equally, in balance and succession. The structure of Pilates not only addresses strength but facilitates flexibility and joint mobility.

Question 40

What is an Exercise Physiologist

Accepted Answer

An exercise physiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in understanding how the body responds to physical activity and exercise. Their primary role is to evaluate, create, deliver, and implement safe and effective exercise plans tailored to individuals with specific requirements, including those with acute, sub-acute, or chronic medical conditions, injuries, or disabilities.

Our Exercise Physiologist has a specialization in Women's Health and collaborates closely with our Women's Health Physiotherapists to provide comprehensive support for women throughout every stage of life. This includes:
 • Pregnancy Exercise: Tailored exercise programs to support women during pregnancy.
 • Postpartum Exercise: Specifically addressing concerns like returning to running and managing abdominal separation post-pregnancy.
 • Exercise for Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Providing safe and effective exercise strategies for those with pelvic organ prolapse.
 • Exercise for Incontinence: Offering exercises and guidance for managing incontinence.
 • Exercise throughout the Menstrual Cycle: Customized exercise plans that consider the changes that occur during different phases of the menstrual cycle.

Our team of experts is dedicated to promoting women's well-being through exercise and targeted interventions at every stage of life.

Question 41

What an Accredited Exercise Physiologist can help with?

Accepted Answer

Our Exercise Physiologist is a valuable resource for individuals looking to prevent injuries, manage existing conditions, or reduce their risk of developing chronic medical health issues. Among the many conditions they address, some of the more common ones include:
 • Metabolic Conditions: Such as obesity, diabetes, and high lipid levels.
 • Musculoskeletal Conditions: Including arthritis, injuries, osteoporosis, and post/pre-surgery rehabilitation.
 • Cardiovascular Conditions: Such as high blood pressure, arterial disease, heart failure, and post-heart attack recovery.
 • Cancer: Providing support during and after cancer treatments.
 • Women's Health: Covering conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and hormonal issues.
 • Mental Health: Offering exercise interventions that can benefit mental well-being.
 • Sports Performance and Fitness Goals: Including guidance on proper techniques for gym-based movements.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and our Exercise Physiologist can assist with a wide range of other conditions and health-related goals as well.

Question 42

Is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist different from a personal trainer?

Accepted Answer

To achieve Accredited Exercise Physiologist status, the following requirements must be fulfilled:
 • Completion of a minimum of four years of university education, which can either be a Bachelor's or Master's degree program.
 • Completion of supervised practical experience, totaling over 500 hours.
 • Adherence to stringent criteria for annual accreditation renewal to maintain the right to practice.

Different from Personal Trainers: 
It's important to note that Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) differ significantly from personal trainers. Personal trainers typically acquire qualifications through a relatively short, six-week study program and primarily provide exercise guidance to individuals who are generally healthy and at low risk of chronic illnesses.

We are proudly rebranded as Women's Health Hub

Frequently Asked Questions