Department of Veteran Affairs

The Department of Veterans' Affairs will fund physiotherapy and exercise physiology services for eligible DVA members holding a DVA gold or white card. With DVA gold card holders, DVA will pay for physiotherapy or exercise physiology services to meet your clinical needs.  For DVA white card holders, DVA will pay for treatment for a accepted service-related condition.

Our physiotherapists and exercise physiologists can provide a range of treatments and equipment including:

• exercise programs to improve movement and control
• soft tissue massage to improve range of motion, joint flexibility and relieve pain
• dry needling that can provide pain relief and restore movement
• group classes including hydrotherapy 
• aids and appliances

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in helping injured veterans with the management of their injuries. Whether the injury is long-term or recent, physiotherapy assessment and treatment can help to achieve the specific goals set by each veteran. Physiotherapy aims to help achieve these goals through:

• Using manual therapy techniques to reduce pain and stiffness
• Help veterans understand more about the nature of their injury/condition
• Advise about self-management strategies (e.g, massage at home, ergonomic advice)
• Prescribe an individualized home exercise program focused on improving movement and function

By implementing the above strategies, physiotherapy aims to make rehabilitation specific for each veteran. Consequently, veterans may experience improvements in movement and strength, helping them to stay active in the community, improve quality of life and keep them doing what they love!

Exercise Physiology

Exercise physiology can play a significant role in helping veterans by addressing their unique physical and psychological needs. Veterans often face a range of health challenges, including physical injuries, mental health issues, and the transition to civilian life. Expertly prescribed exercise can:

• Increase your fitness and make you feel more energised
• Improve your strength and balance
• Support your mental health and reduce the symptoms of mental health conditions
• Help you maintain a healthy weight
• Prevent the development of a number of chronic conditions
• Chronic pain management
• Boost your self-confidence and concentration
• Help keep your brain active and healthy
• Get you out of the house and meet a new community of friends!