Physiotherapists help patients recover from surgery, injury, or chronic disease management.
They may prescribe exercises, stretches and massage. They may also use devices that stimulate muscles through transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation or ultrasound therapy. Physiotherapists must hold professional standards, including education in a professional doctorate program, be registered on a physiotherapy board and have professional indemnity insurance. Physiotherapists work to treat a wide range of physical problems, including the below.
Back pain
Neck pain
Arthritis
Muscle pain
Sports injuries
Tendinitis
Fibromyalgia
Foot pain
Hip pain
Knee pain
Shoulder pain
Balance problems
Falls
Swelling due to injury
Pregnancy-related pain
Your physiotherapist will ask about your health history or doctor's referral and symptoms, and then they will perform a physical examination. They can also order and diagnose X-rays.
Based on the results of your examination and tests, your physiotherapist will develop a treatment plan tailored to suit your needs.
You should see a physiotherapist if you have any of the following symptoms:
Pain
Limited movement
Difficulty walking or using your hands or arms
Weakness
Numbness or tingling in your limbs
Your physiotherapist may also recommend regular visits to help maintain your health and prevent problems from occurring. Some treatments, such as electrical stimulation, may not be safe for pregnant women.
No. Physiotherapists are healthcare professionals who help people regain movement and function. Physical therapists are also healthcare professionals who help people regain movement and function, but they specialise in rehabilitation after an injury or surgery. Some physiotherapists also become physical therapists, but not all physical therapists are physiotherapists.
Your physiotherapist will take a complete medical history and, where necessary, order diagnostic tests to find out what is causing your discomfort. Chiropractors and osteopaths are generally alternative medicine practitioners who offer non-conventional treatment such as spinal manipulation or massage therapy for musculoskeletal conditions. Both professions also provide advice on exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes.
The amount of time you need to see a physiotherapist will vary depending on your specific condition. If you have a chronic disease, such as arthritis, you may need to see a physiotherapist regularly to maintain your health and reduce the risk of further problems. Your physiotherapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs.
You should be prepared to discuss your health and medical history and tell your physiotherapist about any symptoms you're experiencing, such as the below.
Location of the pain (face, back, leg, hip, etc.)
Duration of the pain
Nature of your pain (dull, aching, sharp, etc.). The physiotherapist will need this information so they can determine what's causing your problem and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
There are a number of different approaches a physiotherapist may take to put you on the road to wellbeing.
It focuses on hands-on techniques that are applied to improve joint movement, muscle strength, and coordination, i.e., chiropractic manipulation or massage therapy.
Rehabilitative exercises are prescribed specifically for you and are designed to improve mobility, reduce pain and increase muscular strength and fitness.
Hydrotherapy is when water is used as a treatment medium, often in a pool, to treat movement and function problems.
An ancient Chinese medical practice that involves the use of very fine needles inserted into the skin at specific points on the body
A technique that helps you learn how to control specific involuntary processes of the body, such as heart rate and muscle tension, using special equipment.
A gentle electrical current is used to stimulate the muscles and help them relax. It may be used to relieve pain or reduce spasms.
Many physiotherapy treatments, such as electrical stimulation, may not be safe for pregnant women. Always check with your physiotherapist before starting any new treatments.
You should see a physical therapist if you have been diagnosed with any of the following conditions:
Painful joints due to arthritis
Difficulty walking because of an injury or stroke
Back pain that doesn't improve
Painful muscle spasms
Parkinsons syndrome
Most people who pay for their physiotherapy treatments can claim part of the costs through private health funds. A physio usually charges around $70 to $100 per hour.