AS/SpA 6 Week Program · SYDNEY
Ankylosing Spondylitis: manage flare-ups with confidence
Connected care from BJC Health: Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology working together on AS/SpA.
A structured, evidence-based program combining Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology support, in small-group sessions at Parramatta and Chatswood, to help you manage ankylosing spondylitis and spondyloarthritis.
WHAT THIS PROGRAM TARGETS
Six areas of support
Whether you've recently been diagnosed or have been managing ankylosing spondylitis or spondyloarthritis for years, flare-ups, stiffness and fatigue can still impact your life. This program is built from your Initial Assessment and adjusted as you progress.
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Targeted Mobility
Exercise to maintain spinal flexibility and reduce stiffness, a cornerstone of recognised AS/SpA management guidelines.
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Cardiovascular Exercise
Aerobic training to support chest expansion and long-term heart health, particularly important given the higher cardiovascular risk associated with inflammatory conditions like AS/SpA.
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Specific Strengthening
Progressive strength work to support posture and spinal alignment, built from your starting point.
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Activity Pacing
Strategies to help you pace activity through the day, so you can stay active without overdoing it.
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Managing Fatigue
Practical strategies to manage fatigue and maintain energy day to day.

Managing Flare-Ups
Strategies to help you recognise and manage flare-ups as they happen.
WHAT TO EXPECT
What's actually involved
01
Getting to know you
A comprehensive Initial Assessment with a Physiotherapist and Exercise Physiologist to understand your starting point and goals.
02
A program that progresses
Personalised exercises for mobility, strength and aerobic fitness, progressed as your strength builds.
03
Guidance for flare-ups
Strategies to help you exercise safely and correctly, including how to manage flare-ups as they happen.
04
A plan you keep
An individualised long-term plan by your final Program Review, to keep building on your progress.
HOW IT WORKS
Getting started is simple
1
STEP ONE
Get in touch
Tell us what's going on and one of our coordinators will call you. The first step is booking your Initial Assessment.
2
STEP TWO
Initial assessment
A 45-minute session with a Physiotherapist and Exercise Physiologist to understand your goals and shape your program.
3
STEP THREE
Your program begins
12 small-group sessions, twice weekly at Parramatta or Chatswood.
4
STEP FOUR
Progress check-ins
Tracked against validated outcome measures set at your Initial Assessment.
5
STEP FIVE
Final review & long-term plan
We measure your outcomes, report back to your treating doctor or specialist, and plan what's next.
INVESTMENT
What's included
Initial Assessment & Program Coordination
45 minutes with a Physiotherapist and Exercise Physiologist: $248
6-Week Group Exercise Program
12 in-person, small-group sessions across six weeks, plus a final Program Review, totalling $1,016
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Progress tracked using validated measures such as the BASMI, BASFI and Enthesitis score
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Results shared with your treating doctor or specialist, where appropriate
Private health rebates may apply to your Initial Assessment and Program Review consultations. The small-group sessions that make up the majority of your program are typically not claimable. Check your eligibility directly with your health fund before booking.
Pricing shown is current at time of publishing and may be updated. Please confirm current pricing with our team before booking.
YOUR PROGRAM TEAM
Meet your coordinators
Every BJC Health program is assessed and coordinated by the same experienced team, so your journey is consistent from your first session to your last. Day-to-day sessions are delivered by our broader Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology team.
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Errol Lim, Physiotherapist
Errol is a Physiotherapist and Managing Director of BJC Health with 20+ years of experience. He specialises in rheumatology and multidisciplinary care, helping people improve movement, function and physical wellbeing through practical, individualised treatment. -
Sarah Comensoli, Exercise Physiologist
Sarah is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with 15+ years of experience, passionate about helping people manage rheumatic conditions through practical, individualised exercise. She focuses on building confidence, improving physical capacity and helping people stay active. -
Robyn Yin, Exercise Physiologist
Robyn is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with 15+ years of experience, helping people with rheumatic and chronic conditions build strength, confidence and sustainable movement habits through personalised exercise.
GOOD TO KNOW
Common questions
Do I need to pay upfront for the 6-week program?
Yes. Paying upfront supports consistency across the six weeks, giving your care team the opportunity to build on each session and track your progress over time.
Can I use a care plan for this program?
Your GP determines your eligibility for a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDMP). If eligible, ask your GP to refer you for Exercise Physiology and Physiotherapy sessions. This can apply to your Initial Assessment and Program Review, which are individual consultations. CDMP rebates do not apply to the group exercise sessions. Eligible patients can access up to 5 allied health sessions under Medicare per calendar year, shared across all allied health services used.
Can I pause the program?
With adequate notice, you can pause the program for absences of 7 days or more. We understand life happens, and we'll approach any special circumstances with understanding.
What if the program isn't suitable for me?
Your Physiotherapist and Exercise Physiologist will monitor your progress throughout and adjust your plan where needed. If the program isn't the right fit, we'll discuss alternative options with you and your treating doctor or specialist.
How is success measured in the AS/SpA program?
We track your progress using validated measures such as the BASMI, BASFI and Enthesitis score, reassessed at your final Program Review.
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