Managing chronic & metabolic diseases such as osteoarthritis, diabetes, weight management and heart health concerns
Living with a chronic or metabolic condition can affect many aspects of daily life — from physical discomfort and altered mobility to changes in energy levels, confidence, ability to participate in daily life, and long-term wellbeing. We understand that these symptoms are different for everyone. We strongly believe that effective management goes beyond medication — it’s about building sustainable habits, restoring function, and empowering you with the right knowledge and tools. Our goal is to help you move with confidence, eat well, and take control of your health — one achievable step at a time.
At Stratford Health Hub, we have just the right people for you:
- Joel, our exercise physiologist specialises in this area. Exercise matters a lot in chronic disease as often, but not always, chronic and metabolic conditions have links with lifestyle factors.
We know that regular and structured exercise can help to improve insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control in diabetes; enhance cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure and cholesterol; support healthy weight management and metabolic balance, reduce inflammation for joint pains and fatigue, sleep, improving daily energy and mood; and lower risk of future complications and future hospital admissions.
Joel will start with a thorough individual assessment to understand your health history, lifestyle, symptoms and goals. He will then make a program and plan for you and with you to get to where you want to be. - When pain or restrictions in movement are in the way of exercising effectively, you will also see Joyce, our physiotherapist, to help you to exercise effectively.
- Nutrition is an important part of your chronic disease management, and as such you will likely also see Jen, our dietician to help you get back on track. Certain foods can trigger or calm inflammation in the body. A healthy gut microbiome can help regulate immune response and inflammation; and adequate protein, vitamins and minerals are essential for muscle and bone recovery. For some, excess weight around the abdomen can add to inflammation and insulin resistance and this needs to be addressed too.
We will refer you to whoever else you need in your network to make you live well and reach your goals. Other people that we often refer to are an occupational therapist or a psychologist. We work closely with your GP, other specialists and other health care providers to ensure seamless support.