VALD Testing and Strength Assessment

VALD testing at Cairns Total Physio provides a way to objectively measure strength, movement and progress, helping guide rehabilitation and improve confidence when returning to activity.

Using specialised technology, VALD testing allows us to go beyond how things feel and instead understand how your body is performing in measurable terms.

This information is used to support both injury rehabilitation and performance, making it relevant for a wide range of patients.

What to expect from VALD testing

VALD assessments are typically completed as part of a physiotherapy or exercise physiology session.

Your clinician will guide the process based on your needs and may include:

• Strength testing using handheld or fixed dynamometry
• Movement and force-based testing using force plates (ForceDecks)
• Comparison between sides of the body
• Monitoring changes over time

These assessments are simple and practical, and results are explained clearly so you can understand how they relate to your recovery.

Why objective testing matters

Many injuries and movement issues involve:

• Strength imbalances
• Reduced capacity on one side
• Ongoing deficits that are not always obvious

VALD testing helps identify these factors and provides a clearer picture of what is contributing to your symptoms.

It is commonly used to support conditions such as:

• [ACL injuries]
• [knee pain]
• [shoulder injuries]
• [Achilles tendon pain]
• [post‑operative physiotherapy]

This allows your clinician to make more informed decisions about your rehabilitation and progression.

Tracking progress over time

One of the key benefits of VALD testing is the ability to track progress in a measurable way.

Rather than relying on time alone, we can:

• Assess improvements in strength
• Monitor symmetry between sides
• Adjust your program based on real data

This helps ensure your rehabilitation is:

• Specific to your needs
• Progressed appropriately
• Aligned with your goals

Supporting return to activity and performance

VALD testing is often used to guide:

• Return to sport decisions
• Progression of gym-based rehabilitation
• Performance and strength development

It is commonly integrated with:

• [sports injury treatment]
• [gym programs]
• [post‑operative physiotherapy]

This ensures your return to activity is based on clear and objective information, not guesswork.

Accessing your results

As part of your program, your results can be linked with your Move Health app, alongside your prescribed exercises.

This allows you to:

• View your progress over time
• Stay connected with your rehabilitation plan
• See how your strength and performance are improving

Having access to this information helps build confidence and keeps you engaged in your recovery.

A practical and supportive approach

At Cairns Total Physio, VALD testing is used as part of a broader, clinician-guided approach.

We focus on:

• Explaining results in a simple and meaningful way
• Using data to guide decisions, not overwhelm
• Integrating testing into your overall plan

Our goal is to help you better understand your body and support a safe, effective return to activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is VALD testing?

VALD testing uses specialised equipment to measure strength, movement and performance in a clear and objective way.

Do I need VALD testing for my injury?

Not always. Your physiotherapist will recommend it if it’s useful for guiding your rehabilitation or tracking progress.

Is VALD testing only for athletes?

No. It is useful for a wide range of patients, from general injuries through to post-operative rehabilitation and return to activity.

Can I see my results?

Yes. Your results can be viewed through your Move Health app alongside your exercise program.

Does VALD replace normal physiotherapy assessment?

No. It is used alongside clinical assessment to provide additional information and support decision-making.