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Fatigue is a significant concern throughout many work environments, affecting workers across various industries. Fatigue can be a by-product of long hours, demanding tasks, inadequate rest, and stress. While fatigue is often overlooked, its implications for injury risk are often profound. Understanding Fatigue in the Workplace Fatigue in the workplace can manifest as physical exhaustion, mental tiredness, or a combination of both. Physical fatigue results from prolonged exertion, while mental fatigue arises from extended periods of concentration and decision-making. Both forms can impair a worker's ability to perform tasks safely and efficiently, which can lead to a higher risk of accidents and injuries. Other factors such as sleep loss, and environmental conditions can significantly impact a workers’ fatigue levels. Individual factors such as age, hydration, fitness level, diet, smoking and alcohol intake are also just as important to consider. Mechanisms Linking Fatigue to Injury Risk Decreased Coordination and Balance Altered Perception and Reaction Time Increased Muscle Strain Compromised Judgment Neglect of Safety Protocols It is important to highlight that industries requiring workers to complete extended periods of manual labour are more likely to be involved in workplace incidents. The risks become elevated as fatigue is mixed into already high-risk environments. Mitigating the Risks of Fatigue There are several ways to help mitigate the risks of fatigue. These can be but are not limited to: Implementing Fatigue Management Programs Adequate Rest and Recovery Monitoring Workloads Providing Ergonomic Support Encouraging Healthy Lifestyle Choices Creating a Supportive Work Environment Fatigue is a critical factor influencing injury risk in the workplace. Understanding the mechanisms linking fatigue to injuries can help organisations implement effective strategies to mitigate these risks. By prioritising rest, monitoring workloads, and fostering a culture of safety and support, employers can enhance worker well-being and significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Addressing fatigue is not just a matter of improving productivity; it is essential for ensuring the health and safety of all workers.  Daine Richards Workers Compensation Specialist (AEP, ESSAM) Exercise Rehabilitation Services – WA

Meet Rowan 50% of our new QLD AB squad. Hello everybody, I’m Rowan, Accredited Exercise Physiologist at Absolute Balance. I studied in sunny Townsville at James Cook University, graduating in 2014. Shortly after, I landed a position at a local chiropractic clinic as the sole Exercise Physiologist among chiropractors, physiotherapists, and massage therapists. After a year, I transitioned to Max Employment as a Health Services Officer, covering Townsville, Ingham, Ayr, and Charters Towers. In this role, I helped job seekers secure suitable employment, an unexpected shift from my previous experience but one that ignited my passion for the role of exercise in mental health. After a few years, I decided to move to Brisbane, where I ventured into the occupational rehabilitation field. However, I soon realized that vocational rehabilitation wasn’t the right fit for me. This realisation led me to focus on pre-employment medical assessments, including functional capacity evaluations, drug testing, and lifting capacity assessments. Fun fact: I encountered every drug in the tests except cocaine—it's puzzling why people would use methamphetamines the weekend before their employment screenings! Eventually, I traded in corporate attire for shorts and joggers as I embraced a role in the gym environment. I enjoyed working directly with Medicare, DVA, NDIS, and private patients, so much so that I decided to start my own business (2021) with Meagan, the other 50% of the new Queensland team. As we launched our company, I found myself asking, "What the hell do I do now?" That's when I reached out to ol’ Derek Knox to be our business mentor. My experiences with Derek likely echoed those of many others: he was constantly emphasising my "why" and the "red brain-green brain" concept, all while sharing his extensive industry knowledge, and taking time out of his busy schedule just to hear me say things like, ‘nothings really going on this month’, and ‘red brain is bad right?’. Now, I find myself back in the WorkCover space—though this time, I'm not involved in vocational work—and I'm thoroughly enjoying it. If you’ve made it this far, thank you very much for your time, but let’s finish up with 2 truths and a lie, feel free to email me your answers: I hid on a plane, causing a lot of problems, when I was 5yrs and travelling alone from Sydney to Hobart. I was shipped off to military boarding school in Sydney for 9 years. I caused $40,000 worth of damage to a hotel because I left the kitchen sink tap on. Rowan Dicks Workers Compensation Specialist (AEP, ESSAM) Exercise Rehabilitation Services ‑ QLD

At Absolute Balance, we have a rather unique tradition: every new team member receives an engraved fork upon joining the company. Now, you might wonder—why a fork? Well, it all started in our old office, where forks seemed to vanish mysteriously. No one could ever figure out where they went, and instead of solving the mystery, we decided to turn it into a fun tradition. To make new staff feel welcome (and to ensure they always had their own cutlery!), we started gifting everyone a personalised fork. When I officially joined the team (and decided to move from Perth to Sydney), I was entrusted with a special mission: delivering the engraved fork to another new team member in Sydney. This fork, however, was no ordinary utensil—it had already racked up some serious miles. Initially flown from Perth to Sydney, it missed its delivery and was flown back to Perth. Now, I was tasked with bringing it back to Sydney by car—making it the most well-travelled fork in Australia! After completing my university practicum placement with the Perth team as part of my exercise physiology degree, I was eager to take on a new challenge and grow within the company, so I applied for a role with the New South Wales team. I was thrilled when I got the position. This move marked a significant step in my career—transitioning from a student to a fully-fledged exercise physiologist, ready to make a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of my clients. The long journey from Perth to Sydney, with the engraved fork in tow, became symbolic of this exciting new chapter in my life. Day one took us from Perth to Norseman, and it began with a flat tire—maybe not the ideal start, but we were determined! Feeling a mix of excitement and hope about my new career, I was ready to tackle the journey. And honestly, by the time we hit the road, this fork had more travel points than most people.  The drive across the Nullarbor Plain was a test of patience, but it also highlighted the vastness and beauty of the Australian landscape. Somewhere along the 90 Mile Straight, the clutch on the car started acting up—because every epic journey needs a bit of drama, right? We nursed the car all the way to Border Village, a roadhouse just over the South Australian side where the roadhouse staff were amused by the story of the well-travelled fork. As we continued, we stopped in Kimba, a charming little town in the heart of Australia. It was here that the fork got its own ‘midway point’ photo-op, with Kimba’s beautiful silo art providing the perfect backdrop. The town’s community vibe and warm welcome were exactly what I needed as I adjusted to the idea of leaving my old life in Perth behind and embracing this new adventure. After a quick pit stop in Port Augusta to fix the clutch (thankfully, the car made it!), we continued our journey through vineyard country along the Murray River and into Victoria. Having coffee by the river, watching the sun rise and set, and knowing that I was getting closer to my new home was a beautiful experience. The last night on the road was spent in Wagga Wagga, where the rain finally caught up with us. As we camped out in the wet and chilly weather, I laughed at the thought of the fork enduring all these adventures, from the outback to the vineyards and now to a rainy campsite. Despite the weather, we stayed cozy in our swag, and the fork was safe and dry, ready for its final destination. Arriving in Sydney felt like a milestone—not just for me but for the fork, too. It had travelled thousands of kilometres and was finally ready to meet its new owner. It was an exciting moment to hand it over, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter for both of us. Starting my new role as an exercise physiologist with Absolute Balance has been an incredible experience. After meeting the Sydney team, I felt a strong sense of belonging and support. Having spent time with the Perth team during my practicum, I knew I was joining a company that valued honesty, integrity, teamwork, and empathy—values that I hold close to my heart as I embark on this new journey to make a positive impact in the lives of my clients. This journey was more than just a road trip; it was a personal and professional adventure that taught me the value of resilience, adaptability, and finding humour in unexpected situations. As I settle into my new role, I’m excited to apply these lessons in my work, supporting my clients and helping them reach their health and fitness goals. So, next time you see someone in our team with an engraved fork, you’ll know the story behind it—and you’ll know about the one fork that travelled further than any other. April Hawser Exercise Physiologist Exercise Rehabilitation Services – NSW

Hydrotherapy, or water therapy, has been used for centuries as a natural way to promote healing and well-being. From ancient Roman baths to modern spa treatments, the therapeutic effects of water have fascinated many. Today, more people are turning to hydrotherapy for its numerous physical and mental health benefits, particularly in the rehabilitation world. Let’s dive into some of the key benefits of incorporating hydrotherapy into your rehabilitation. 1. Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation The most significant benefit of hydrotherapy is its ability to alleviate pain and relax muscles. Warm water can increase blood circulation, which helps reduce inflammation and soreness in the muscles and joints. This makes hydrotherapy particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from musculoskeletal injuries. 2. Improved Mobility Hydrotherapy can enhance mobility, especially for those recovering from injuries or surgeries. The buoyancy of water reduces the weight placed on joints, allowing for easier movement and a greater range of motion. Exercises performed in water can strengthen muscles without the risk of strain, making it an excellent and safe option for rehabilitation. 3. Stress Relief and Relaxation Water has a calming effect on the mind and body, making hydrotherapy an effective way to manage stress and anxiety, which increase when injuries are sustained. Soaking in warm water or engaging in gentle water exercises can promote relaxation and a sense of well-being. 4. Enhanced Circulation The warmth of hydrotherapy can stimulate blood flow, promoting better circulation throughout the body. Improved circulation can aid in the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues while also facilitating the removal of toxins. This boost in circulation can be especially beneficial for individuals with circulation issues or those recovering from injury. 5. Support for Weight Loss and Fitness Hydrotherapy can be an effective addition to a weight loss or fitness regimen. Water resistance makes exercises more challenging, helping to build strength and endurance without placing excessive stress on the body. 6. Social Interaction and Community Building Participating in hydrotherapy classes or group sessions can foster social connections and support. Engaging in activities with others can enhance motivation and accountability, making it easier to maintain a consistent wellness routine. The sense of community often found in hydrotherapy settings can also contribute positively to mental health. Conclusion Hydrotherapy is an adaptable and accessible therapeutic option that offers a range of benefits for both the body and mind. Whether you’re looking to alleviate pain, enhance mobility, or simply relax, incorporating water therapy into your routine can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. As always, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking the plunge into a new exercise, especially if you have an underlying health condition. Caitlin Chase Workers Compensation Specialist (AEP, ESSAM) Exercise Rehabilitation Services ‑ WA 

There are many factors that can interfere with a good night’s sleep – whether it is from work stress, or family responsibilities to illnesses. Improving sleep when you’re in pain can also be challenging, and it is no surprise that quality sleep is sometimes elusive. However, there are several strategies that can help manage pain and promote better sleep quality: Relaxation Techniques: Deep Breathing: Practise deep breathing exercises to help relax your body and mind. Mindfulness and Meditation: Engage in mindfulness or meditation practices to reduce stress and improve overall sleep.  Sleep Environment: Comfortable Mattress and Pillows: Ensure your mattress and pillows provide adequate support. Temperature Control: Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Pain Management: Medications: Consult your family GP about management strategies or pain relief medications that are suitable for nighttime use. Heat and Cold Therapy: Apply heat and cold packs to the affected area before bed. Sleep Hygiene: Consistent Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time everyday where possible. Wind-Down Routine: Develop a relaxing pre-sleep routine, such as reading, taking a warm shower, or practising gentle yoga. Limit Screen Time: Avoid screens at least an hour before bed to allow the production of melatonin, keeping the brain calm and making it easier to fall asleep. Lifestyle Adjustments: Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity. The more active you are, the more your body pushes you to sleep at night. Diet: Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bed. Hydration: Stay hydrated, but limit fluids in the evening to reduce nighttime awakenings. By integrating these strategies, you can create a more conducive environment for sleep and manage pain more effectively. Sleep is essential for optimal health and exercise is one of the best ways to boost your sleep quality. There is no right or wrong time to work out, whether you do it in the morning, noon or evening, aim at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day in a way that makes you feel good. Not sure how to start? Consult a healthcare professional or your nearest exercise physiologist about starting an exercise programme that is tailored to your goals. Haseef Salim Workers Compensation Specialist (AEP, ESSAM) Exercise Rehabilitation Services – WA

When we watch Olympic athletes achieve incredible feats, it’s easy to focus solely on the individual. After all, it’s the athlete who stands atop the podium, receiving the medal. However, behind every Olympic champion is a support team—coaches, medical practitioners, allied health professionals, mental health experts, and family members—whose contributions are crucial to the athlete’s success. The existence and importance of these teams remind us of the value of support networks in every aspect of life, including the process of returning to work and life after an injury. The Role of Support Teams in Olympic Success Olympic athletes are extraordinary, but they do not reach the pinnacle of their sports alone. A coach tailors training programs and strategies, guiding the athlete through physical and technical development. Health professionals, including Exercise Physiologists, Physiotherapists and Sports Doctors, ensure the athlete’s body can withstand the rigors of elite competition. Nutritionists design meal plans that fuel peak performance, while sports psychologists help athletes maintain mental resilience under immense pressure. Family members, friends as well as the aforementioned health professionals provide emotional support. This multifaceted support system ensures that athletes can focus on their performance while knowing they have experts taking care of everything else. The synergy of these different roles creates an environment where athletes can thrive, recover from setbacks, and ultimately succeed. Parallels to Everyday Life: Returning to Work After Injury The concept of a support team isn’t just for elite athletes; it’s equally important in everyday life, especially when someone is recovering from an injury and preparing to return to life and work. An injured person, much like an athlete, faces physical, mental, and emotional challenges. Having a comprehensive support system can make a significant difference in their recovery and integration to their usual life. In the context of returning to work, the support team will include healthcare professionals, rehabilitation experts (Exercise Physiologists), workplace rehabilitation services, friends and family members. Each plays a vital role: 1. **Healthcare Professionals**: Doctors and Specialists assess the injury and create a tailored recovery plan. They monitor progress, making adjustments as needed, and provide the necessary medical treatments to aid recovery. 2. **Rehabilitation Experts**: These professionals, such as Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists, work with the injured worker to design tailored exercise programs to reduced symptoms, restore physical mobility, and function for life and work. 3. **Workplace Rehabilitation Providers**: Employers and independent organisations play a crucial role by ensuring the worker feels supported during their transition back to work. This could involve modifying job responsibilities, offering flexible hours, or implementing a gradual return-to-work plan. Open communication between the worker and workplace rehabilitation providers is essential to ensure that the worker’s needs are met. 4. **Friends and Family**: Emotional and psychological support from loved ones can’t be underestimated. They provide encouragement, help maintain a positive outlook, and offer practical assistance in day-to-day life. The Importance of a Holistic Approach Both Olympic athletes and injured workers benefit from a holistic approach to support. Just as an athlete’s success is not solely about physical prowess, an injured worker’s recovery is not just about physical healing. Mental and emotional well-being are equally important, and a strong support team can address all these areas. In both cases, the presence of a support network helps the individual stay focused, motivated, and resilient in the face of challenges. Whether striving for Olympic gold or returning to work after an injury, having a dedicated team can make all the difference. By surrounding ourselves with the right support, we can all achieve our personal best, regardless of the obstacles we face. Hadyn Sleeman Regional Manager (B.Sc (Physio), Dip. L & M)

THE GROWING EVIDENCE AROUND ‘LENGTHENED PARTIALS’ AND THE BENEFITS THEY CAN PROVIDE TO GYM-GOERS As the field of sport science advances, there are numerous amounts of research studies being published daily. Over the past year, a new training concept has gained some traction in the fitness world, and it’s referred to as ‘lengthened partials. Whether you’re an athlete, allied health professional or even just a general gym-goer, learning about this type of training can provide your body with a different muscle building stimulus and also give you a different approach to your training. Lengthened partials stem from using partial range of motion (ROM) during an exercise. Partial ROM can be done at short muscle lengths, for example on a bicep curl, working from the top of the curl, down to 90 degrees and back up. However, partial range of motion can also be done at long muscle lengths, for example on the same bicep curl, working from the bottom of the curl, up to 90 degrees and back down – this is essentially what ‘lengthened partials’ are. Initial research on this topic came from an article in 2021 which measured participants muscle hypertrophy (increase in muscle mass) on the leg extension when doing either full ROM or partial ROM on the exercise. The study concluded that participants who did partial ROM during the exercise had higher levels of muscle hypertrophy than participants who did full ROM. Another study in 2023, saw an increase in calf muscle hypertrophy when performing ‘lengthened partials’ instead of full ROM on a calf raise exercise. How is this possible? While it’s hard to exactly pinpoint what is causing these adaptations, past studies have shown that muscle strength and mass increases when tension is applied directly to the muscle. Therefore, experts believe, when training at longer muscle lengths (and performing lengthened partials), it provides the muscle with the most amount of tension possible (during the stretched position) which can therefore translate to greater muscle hypertrophy. What does this mean for you? While lengthened partials have shown positive results thus far, it shouldn’t be seen as a complete replacement for full ROM training. Having complete muscle contraction during your exercises provides its own benefits but lengthened partials can be included as a different sort of stimulus. Next time you're in the gym, have a go with doing your set at full range of motion and then as you started to fatigue, switching to partial range of motion at the lengthened position to finish the exercise. What if I’m injured? In the field of exercise rehabilitation, lengthened partials become even more important. When someone is injured, they may experience more pain and discomfort during the peak contraction of an exercise. Therefore, by implementing lengthened partials into your rehabilitation program, you can still achieve great muscle stimulus and hypertrophy while also limiting some of the range of motion that could be causing exacerbations in pain levels. While lengthened partials still require more research, they are showing positive signs for muscle-building enthusiasts. Next time, you find yourself injured or just getting bored of your usual gym program – try out lengthened partials and see how you find it. As always, if injured, ensure you consult with a qualified health professional before attempting the above training method. Nick Del Borrello Workers Compensation Specialist (AEP, ESSAM) Exercise Rehabilitation Services ‑ WA

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a form of acquired brain injury usually occurring when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. TBI can result when the head suddenly and/or violently hits an object or if an object pierces the skull and damages brain tissue, examples include car accidents, sports injuries and in the case of one of my patients falling off a horse. Symptoms of a TBI can differ drastically depending on the extent of the damage to the brain, they can range from light headaches, dizziness and blurred vision to memory loss, seizures, slurred speech and weakness of the extremities. With such an array of symptoms categorising a TBI it begs the question: can exercise benefit those who suffer with such an injury considering it all stems from the brain? A brain injury is quite different from a broken bone or torn muscle, which can be addressed much easier and generally has a much shorter recovery timeframe. There are many complicated processes occurring that control our thoughts, emotions, and bodily functions and with traumatic brain injury patients, we must treat the patients physical brain damage but also account for their cognitive/emotional side effects Studies have demonstrated that there is the potential for exercise to improve cognitive impairment , mood disorders, and post-concussion syndrome following TBI as well as general quality of life depending on the exercises that are prescribed for each patient. While the individual may have the fear of worsening symptoms through exercise, what they may not know is that if patients don’t exercise, it can increase the risk of weight gain, depression, cardiovascular disease, or quitting positive habits they used to enjoy. Appropriate prescription by an accredited exercise physiologist is critical for the management of symptoms, but this allows us to be very creative to individually adapt exercises across multiple modalities of exercise such as; balance, strengthening, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness and even cognitive exercises. Strengthening Strength training helps develop the body’s major muscle groups, thus promoting overall body strength. Additionally, this type of training encourages bone growth, manages weight and stress, and improves posture and balance. · Bicep Curl · Sit to Stand · Seated Exercises Balance Balance is crucial to maintain for patients recovering from TBI. Balance training helps you improve your body agility, coordination, and muscular strength. Additionally, improving balance reduces your risk of falling. · Single Leg Balance · Weight Shifts · Tandem Walking Cardiovascular Cardiovascular exercises are workouts meant to increase the heart rate and respiration, thus strengthening the heart muscles and lung capacity. It also helps raise the oxygen levels in the body, keeping the blood circulation and the body’s systems healthy. · Cycling · Walking · Step Ups Flexibility Flexibility workouts enhance your range of motion and develop joint strength and muscle abilities. Furthermore, regular flexibility training can help prevent muscle stiffness, ataxia, and spasticity, which are all common problems of TBI patients. · Shoulder/Neck Stretching · Hamstring/Quadriceps Stretching · Lower Back Stretching Cognitive Just as you can improve muscle function through rehabilitation exercises, you can improve cognitive function through cognitive exercises. · Journal or Creative Writing · Puzzles · Cognitive Therapy Games References NeuLifeRehab1 (2022) Why exercise is important in the rehabilitation of brain injury patients, NeuLife. Available at: https://neuliferehab.com/why-exercise-is-important-in-the-rehabilitation-of-brain-injury-patients/ . Traumatic brain injury (no date) National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/traumatic-brain-injury . Zhang, Y. et al. (no date) The benefits of exercise for outcome improvement following traumatic brain injury: Evidence, pitfalls and future perspectives, Experimental Neurology. Academic Press. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0014488621003666 . Can exercise help with traumatic brain injury treatment?: Brain: UT southwestern medical center (no date) Brain | UT Southwestern Medical Center. Available at: https://utswmed.org/medblog/tbi-exercise/ . Kai Baxter Workers Compensation Specialist ‑ Team Leader NSW (AEP, ESSAM) Exercise Rehabilitation Services – NSW