What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a treatment to restore, maintain, and make the most of a patient’s mobility, function, and well-being. Physiotherapy helps through physical rehabilitation, injury prevention, and health and fitness. Physiotherapists get you involved in your own recovery.
When Should I See A Physiotherapist?
Think about getting physiotherapy if you have a recent injury; be it work related or a motor vehicle accident or chronic pain that affects how you function everyday. A doctor may refer you to physiotherapy after surgery such as a hip replacement or an event such as a heart attack or stroke. You can also see a physiotherapist if you report difficulty during or after a workout or you intend on starting a new sport/workout regimen to help understand the biomechanics and have an injury-free experience.
What Problems Do Physiotherapists Treat?
Physiotherapists focus on both prevention and rehabilitation. Treatment can be for problems caused by injury, disease or disability. Here are some examples:Neck and back pain caused by problems in the muscles and skeletonProblems in the bones, joints, muscles and ligaments, such as arthritis, ligament tear, repetitive sprain/strainLung problems such as exercise induced asthmaDisability because of heart problems, strokePelvic issues; such as, bladder and bowel problems related to childbirthLoss of mobility because of trauma to the brain or spine, or due to diseases such as Parkinson’s, ALSFatigue, pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of muscle strength; for example due to multiple sclerosis, during cancer treatment, or palliative care
What Should I Expect If I Visit A Physiotherapist?
Your session will be unique, because it is all about you and your needs. In general, here’s what happens:The physiotherapist learns about your medical history.The physiotherapist assesses and diagnoses your condition.You receive a treatment plan that sets goals for you.The physiotherapist may use pain relief and/or manual therapy techniques as needed and prescribe a course of exercises and any assistive devices if required.
Are You Ready For Your Physiotherapy Session?