PRODUCTS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE    

Use our expertise to help you select the correct brace, guard or product for your condition or injury.

BACK & NECK PRODUCTS
GLUCOSAMINE
BRACES & SUPPORTS
FOOT PRODUCTS
FOOTWEAR
SKINS
PAIN RELIEF PRODUCTS
TAPES & BANDAGES
DVD's & VIDEO's
REHABILITATION EQUIPMENT
FIRST AID KITS

For more information or to purchase, please email:
enquiries@benchmarkphysiotherapy.com.au

BACK & NECK PRODUCTS

  • Lumbar postural supports – used when sitting in chairs, car etc to prevent back pain
  • Back supports and braces
  • Comfortech Pillows – Available in contoured and flat shapes. Pillow moulds to the shape of your head and neck. Australian Physiotherapy Association endorsed - manufactured by Tontine
  • Inflatable Swiss balls with pump (pressure tested and anti-burst construction) - used in the rehabilitation of lumbar spine problems, abdominal strengthening and postural correction


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GLUCOSAMINE

WHAT IS GLUCOSAMINE?
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance made in the human body, which is found in especially high concentrations within cartilage. Medical research shows that glucosamine is one of the essential building blocks needed to manufacture and repair cartilage. Glucosamine helps nourish cartilage by helping it to retain water, which in turn provides the cartilage with its shock absorbing properties and in many instances also helps stimulate the formation of more cartilage.

Research indicates that if the body’s natural stores of glucosamine are supplemented with oral glucosamine (most commonly glucosamine sulphate) the body is better equipped to improve the condition of the existing joint cartilage and decrease the rate of future degeneration.


WHAT IS CHONDROITIN?
Chondroitin is also a naturally occurring substance in the body, which is in high concentrations in cartilage as well as ligaments, tendons and joints. Chondroitin is thought to also promote water retention in cartilage and to inhibit enzymes that break down cartilage.

Some experts believe that it is of benefit if taken in combination with glucosamine, but this has not been proven conclusively.


DOES GLUCOSAMINE WORK?
There are now numerous medical studies that support the benefits of glucosamine in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Glucosamine, has been found to help improve the existing joint cartilage and to help protect the joint cartilage from further breakdown. In many cases glucosamine has also been found to relieve the joint pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Some clinical trials have also found that glucosamine is not only safer but also more effective in relieving pain and inflammation than NSAID (anti-inflammatory) medication eg Voltaren, Mobic, and Naprosyn). NSAID’s will decrease pain more quickly than glucosamine, however they only offer temporary relief and can often cause side effects which prevent long term use. NSAID’s have no cartilage preserving properties and do not stop the progression of osteoarthritis.


WHAT DOSAGE & TYPE OF GLUCOSAMINE SHOULD BE TAKEN?
1500mg of glucosamine is the most commonly recommended daily dose. For pain relief it is suggested that a minimum of six weeks will pass before any benefit is felt, however it is more likely to be between eight and twelve weeks. For the benefit of cartilage preservation and decreasing the possibility of osteoarthritis progressing you should continue to take glucosamine for the longer term.

The combination of glucosamine and chondroitin has not yet been conclusively shown to be more effective, but some experts believe it is of some benefit.


CAN I STOP TAKING GLUCOSAMINE IF I AM FEELING BETTER?
Medical evidence suggests that you may continue to feel better for a short time if you stop taking glucosamine; however your symptoms will most likely return. The scientific evidence shows that glucosamine helps to slow the rate of joint deterioration. Therefore it is recommended that you continue taking glucosamine.


ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS OR PRECAUTIONS WHEN TAKING GLUCOSAMINE?
Glucosamine has few side effects and in general is viewed as a safe natural product which is well tolerated when compared to many other medications.

Some of the possible side effects are listed below:
  • If you are diabetic you should consult with your doctor to ensure you are able to take glucosamine.
  • There have been no long term studies done to determine whether glucosamine is safe to take during pregnancy. We would therefore advise that pregnant women should not take glucosamine.
  • If you are allergic to seafood do not take glucosamine before speaking to your doctor as it is made from shellfish.
  • Chondroitin can interfere with warfarin levels. Patients taking warfarin should consult their doctor.

    Disclaimer: The above information is general in nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It also does not cover all possible actions, precautions, side effects or interactions with other medications. Should you require management or treatment for a specific condition you should always directly consult either your medical practitioner or physiotherapist.


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BRACES & SUPPORTS (a variety of brands and sizes available)
  • Ankle braces
  • Knee braces
  • Elbow braces
  • Wrist and hand braces
  • Elastic and heat retaining supports and sleeves
  • Thigh supports
  • Heat retaining shorts


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FOOT PRODUCTS
  • Orthotics – high performance custom fitted orthotic prescription fitted by a physiotherapist used for the treatment of most foot conditions


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FOOTWEAR
  • Dr Comfort Footwear Range
    The Dr Comfort Footwear range is a range of shoes ideally suited to anyone who has difficulty purchasing shoes to fit or requires an orthotic. They are medically approved and most of the major health funds provide a rebate of at least 50% (and depending on level of cover can be up to 100%). Veterans Affairs patients can also fitted and supplied the Dr Comfort shoes through Veterans’ Affairs.

    Special features of Dr Comfort Shoes:
    • Available in Men’s and Women’s styles
    • Designed specifically to wear with orthotics if required
    • Designed to fit the most difficult feet with comfort and style
    • The use of top quality full grain leathers and lycra uppers for added fitting comfort
    • Seamless linings to reduce friction
    • EVA/Plastazote Diabetic footbed included with every pair
    • Cushioned lightweight midsoles
    • Every style available in 3 width fittings
    • Dress, Classic and Active style options

      All styles are on display at our practice.

  • Vasyli Wave Thongs
    Do you wear orthotics, but hate wearing them in summer due to hot weather? Then the Orthaheel Wave Thong may be the solution for you. The Wave Thong provides orthotic treatment without wearing shoes. They are the perfect solution to a cool summer approach for orthotic therapy.

    Key Features and Benefits include:-

    • The comfort and freedom of a sandal with the orthotic built into the footbed.
    • Affordable, extremely comfortable and easy to wear
    • Continued orthotic treatment when not wearing shoes
    • Protection against hard flat surfaces

    Available in a variety of colours - Black, Tan, Khaki and Light Blue.


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SKINS
  • Skins compression wear is scientifically proven to provide enhanced circulation which assists in reducing lactic acid and optimises your body temperature in warm or cool conditions. Mens, Womens and Youths complete ranges available. Sizes are based on BMI (Body Mass index) so call us for correct sizing.


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PAIN RELIEF PRODUCTS
  • Reusable Cold/Hot packs – easily stored in the freezer or heated in the microwave. Non-ooze if seal damaged
  • Voltaren (anti-inflammatory) gel – available in large, medium and small sizes
  • Glucosamine - highest quality product. Great prices. Used to treat osteoarthritis and minimise long term cartilage damage. More information on Glucosamine.


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TAPES AND BANDAGES
  • Contact us for advice regarding correct choice and correct usage
  • Patient pack of tape for knee – includes fixomul (undertape) and rigid sports tape used for patellofemoral (kneecap) conditions
  • Rigid sports tape - used for strapping of ankles, knees etc
  • Compression and tubular bandages – to decrease swelling and provide support


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INSTRUCTIONAL DVD's and VIDEO's
  • Back pain rehabilitation and strengthening (beginner and advanced) levels
  • Swiss Ball exercises
  • General fitness
  • Pilates


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REHABILITATION EQUIPMENT
  • Exercise band, tubing and accessories - eg theraband and handles used for resistance training and rehabilitation
  • Back balls - Australian Physiotherapy endorsed. Used to assist in the treatment of spinal stiffness and pain



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FIRST AID KITS
  • Customised to requirements – includes various tapes, bandages, spray, scissors, band aids, freezable ice packs, voltaren gel (can also be tailor made for other requirements)

 
 

 

Copyright 2005 Benchmark Physiotherapy.