CHEK Assessments
vExplanation of system
The CHEK system recognises that each client is completely unique in their presentation even if their symptoms appear to be the same. Through a systematic manner, CHEK assessments utilise a wide variety of both objective and subjective assessments to get to the root cause of a client’s pain and dysfunction, essentially leaving ‘no stone unturned’. The CHEK approach uses a hierarchical grading system that ranges from level 1 practitioners, who are able to deal with basic orthopaedic complaints, to level IV practitioners who are able to deal with complex chronic and debilitating cases.
Following a detailed assessment that includes an evaluation of spinal mechanics, muscle balance, posture and core muscular function, a bespoke treatment strategy is developed. This strategy often includes a corrective exercise, strengthening and stretching programme to improve function and posture, and where necessary referral to other practitioners to facilitate progress.
The Process
Typically our approach begins with a 2-hour evaluation. This investigative appointment focuses on finding out all the details of your history, how you became injured, any treatment you have already had, and what level of activity you wish to get back to. Also within this time we will biomechanically evaluate your body in great detail which involves assessing the shape and function of your spine and peripheral joints, measuring how they move as well as testing to find out how balanced and strong the muscles of your body are. Only after all this information is gathered and assessed and we have reviewed any images or scans which you may have relating to your condition will we create your own bespoke strategy. The foundation of our success is built on this highly analytical approach.
The Programme
In the first stage this will usually begin with a stretching and mobilisation programme. This will typically be an hour appointment the week after your first assessment. During this appointment you will be carefully taught your programme and provided with detailed written notes, photos and where necessary a DVD of what you are required to do. You will then have a week to practice and perfect these stretches before we get you back in to teach you the second part of the programme which involves strengthening the muscles of the body. This will typically take a further hour and will take the same format as the previous session. At this appointment we can also arrange for a specialist exercise coach to also be present who can then be available to help you follow your programme more efficiently when at home. There is no obligation to follow this structure but often we find that an introduction to the coach on this session can help you decide if this is a useful support for you. It also has the added advantage of allowing your coach to work closely with your specialist viewing all the techniques that may be specific to your case.
The Biomechanical Review
Once you have worked on your first programme for 4 – 6 weeks we will then get you back in to review you biomechanically and then step your programme up to the next level. This process is typically quicker second time round as we can concentrate on the most important points of the first evaluation. This will typically take one hour to re-assess and a further hour to teach you the new programme. It is recommended to continue within this process untill you are back to full fitness. For many patients this process will take 3 – 6 cycles, however for those who enjoy the continual change and challenge we can continue to modify your plan on an ongoing basis. We have professional golfers on our programme who have been progressing and successfully pushing the boundaries of their training for up to 6 years!