Brain Injury Exercise Physiology Adelaide

At Thrive Health Therapies, we specialise in exercise physiology for individuals who have experienced a brain injury, providing evidence-based, goal-driven rehabilitation to support recovery, independence, and wellbeing. Our exercise physiologists develop personalised programs that help improve strength, mobility, endurance, and functional capacity - no matter where you are on your recovery journey. Whether you prefer sessions in our accessible clinic and gym in Findon, in the comfort of your home, or at a location convenient to you, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Exercise physiologist assisting a client who has a brain injury who is using parallel bars during a therapy session at the Thrive Health Therapies clinic in Findon, Adelaide

What is a Brain Injury?

A brain injury occurs when damage to the brain disrupts normal function. This can result from traumatic events such as falls, motor vehicle accidents, or blows to the head, or non-traumatic causes such as lack of oxygen, infections, or strokes. Brain injuries vary widely in severity and can significantly impact an individual’s physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities.

Effects of a Brain Injury on Function

The consequences of a brain injury depend on its severity and location in the brain. Common functional challenges include:

  • Motor Function: Weakness, paralysis, or poor coordination that can limit movement and affect daily activities.

  • Balance and Coordination: Challenges in maintaining stability and preventing falls.

  • Speech and Swallowing: Difficulty with speaking, understanding language, or swallowing.

  • Cognitive Abilities: Issues with memory, attention, problem-solving, and decision-making.

  • Emotional and Psychological Effects: Conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, or personality changes.

These challenges can impact everyday tasks, social participation, and long-term health, making structured, supportive rehabilitation essential.

Exercise physiologist smiling assisting client durin balance exercise at home

How Can Exercise Physiology Help After a Brain Injury?

Accredited Exercise Physiologists play a vital role in post-brain injury rehabilitation. Through safe, targeted physical activity, they help restore lost function, improve capacity, and build resilience in both body and mind. Our programs are evidence-based and tailored to each individual’s goals, abilities, and living situation.

Key Ways Exercise Physiologists Support Brain Injury Recovery

  1. Mobility & Gait Training: Improve walking patterns, increase confidence, and enhance independence

  2. Strength & Endurance Building: Rebuild muscle, improve energy levels, and reduce fatigue

  3. Balance & Coordination Exercises: Reduce fall risk and improve safety in daily tasks

  4. Spasticity & Pain Management: Gentle exercises to improve flexibility and reduce discomfort

  5. Functional Movement Training: Support safe transfers (e.g. bed to chair) and everyday tasks

  6. Postural Control: Strengthen the core and improve sitting or standing posture

  7. Cardiovascular Conditioning: Enhance heart and lung health post-injury

  8. Neuroplasticity Support: Promote brain adaptation through repetitive, functional movement

Exercise physiologist assisting client who is using a ball for rehabilitation after a brain injury at the Thrive Health Therapies clinic in Findon, Adelaide

Our Approach to Brain Injury Exercise Physiology

At Thrive Health Therapies, our team takes a collaborative, client-centred approach to support each person’s unique recovery goals.

  • Comprehensive Assessment: We assess your current abilities, challenges, and aspirations

  • Goal-Oriented Planning: Together, we define achievable goals that are meaningful to you

  • Individualised Programs: Tailored exercises that evolve with your progress

  • Holistic Support: We work closely with physiotherapists, OTs, speech pathologists, and carers for integrated care. Learn more about our multi-disciplinary team.

Exercise physiologist assisting client who has a brain injury who is lying on their back on a sliding tilt table during a therapy session at the Thrive health Therapies clinic in Findon, Adelaide

How We Deliver Exercise Physiology

We offer community-based, clinic-based and telehealth exercise physiology services to clients throughout Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills:

  • Community-Based Services: We provide community-based services in your home or at a location convenient to you across Adelaide. Learn more about our mobile exercise physiology services and our home visit exercise physiology services.

  • 1:1 Clinic-Based Services: We provide clinic-based services in our specialised clinic and gym in Findon, which has been designed to be appropriate for a range of presentations and disabilities. Our fully accessible clinic and gym space has a range of specialised equipment, allowing individuals with significant physical disabilities the opportunity to work towards their goals.

  • Group classes: Our exercise physiologists also run small group classes at our clinic, focused on strength, balance, and conditioning - ideal for those with neurological or physical disabilities who want to build capacity in a supportive environment. Learn more about our exercise physiology group classes.

  • Telehealth Services: We also offer comprehensive telehealth services, providing clients in Adelaide with convenient, video-based therapy consultations for those who may have difficulty travelling to our clinic or prefer the convenience of remote support. Learn more about our teleheath services.

Client smiling lifting a dumbell during a neuro physiotherapy home visit in Adelaide

Funding Options for Brain Injury Exercise Physiology

We accept a variety of funding options, making brain injury rehabilitation accessible for everyone:

Learn more about the funding options we accept.

Client smiling whilst using a therapy band at home during a exercise physiology home visit

Why Choose Thrive Health Therapies for Exercise Physiology?

  • No wait time: We can start working with you straight away!

  • Experienced: Our exercise physiologists have years of experience working with a wide range of diagnosis and presentations.

  • Extensive Coverage in the community: We serve a large geographical area, providing exercise physiology across all of metropolitan Adelaide from Gawler to Aldinga. We see clients at home, or at a location convenient to them.

  • Clinic space: Our fully accessible clinic and gym in Findon has been specially designed to be appropriate for a wide range of neurological presentations and disabilities.

  • Individualised care: Every client receives a personalised plan based on their unique needs and goals.

  • Neuroaffirming Practice: We provide compassionate and affirming services to support and empower neurodiverse individuals.

  • Multi-Disciplinary Approach: We offer a wide range of allied health services under one roof, allowing for a holistic approach to your health.

  • NDIS Provider: We provide services to National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants.

  • Funding Sources: We accept a variety of funding options, helping our clients access the support they need.

  • LGBTQIA+ friendly: We celebrate, value and include people of all backgrounds, genders, and sexualities, Our Findon clinic is a welcoming, safe and inclusive space for all LGBTQIA+ people.

Exercise physiologist assisting client on a pilates machine during a physiotherapy session at the Thrive Health Therapies clinic in Findon, Adelaide

FAQs - Brain Injury Exercise Physiology in Adelaide

If you can’t find an answer to your question, please contact our friendly team on 0474 248 081 or email enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com

  • A brain injury is damage to the brain caused by an external force (traumatic brain injury) or internal events such as oxygen deprivation, infections, or strokes (acquired brain injury). It can result in a wide range of physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges, depending on the severity and location of the injury.

  • Exercise physiology helps individuals regain strength, mobility, endurance, and confidence through tailored physical activity programs. It also supports long-term health and independence.

  • Early intervention is ideal, but benefits can be gained at any stage of recovery - including years post-injury.

  • Yes! We offer home-based services across Adelaide for convenience and comfort. Learn more about our exercise physiology home visit services.

  • No! We can start working with new clients right away.

  • No! You do not need a referral to see one of our exercise physiologists.

Ready to get started?

It’s easy!

Referral Form

Fill out our easy online referral form and we’ll be in touch!

Content Hub