What Is Physiotherapy and How Can It Help Me?

Are you suffering from back or joint pain? Do you struggle with migraines or osteoarthritis? Have you been in a motor vehicle accident or had a stroke?

If you said “yes” to any of the above questions, physiotherapy might help you finally find relief.

If you’ve ever wondered, “what is physiotherapy” let us help you find the answer. Keep reading to learn about this treatment option, what it involves, and to determine if it will be beneficial for you. 

What Is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a medical specialty that focuses on restoring and maximizing movement and well-being. It is often used interchangeably with “physical therapy.”

Physiotherapists (or physical therapists) work across diverse areas in healthcare. People often think of physiotherapists helping athletes recover from injuries, but they do more than that.

A physiotherapist can help with a multitude of health conditions. Folks with lung problems and bladder and bowel issues often find relief after physiotherapy. A therapist can even help treat neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.

How Does Physiotherapy Work?

Since physiotherapists work across such a broad spectrum of healthcare settings, they can treat various conditions and pathologies. 

Patients go to physio to alleviate pain, improve posture, and prevent and treat injuries. Physiotherapists can also help with disease management and recovery from hip or knee replacements. 

Physiotherapy services can include exercise rehabilitation, electrotherapy, and joint manipulation. Your therapist may prescribe an at-home exercise or stretching program. 

Physio can help you save money, too.

One study looked at two groups of patients with back pain. One group went to a physiotherapist while the other had an advanced imaging referral. Patients who went to physiotherapy had 72% lower treatment costs over the following year. 

This group was also less likely to need surgery and had fewer emergency room visits. 

What Should I Expect At My First Appointment?

Your first physio session will involve a thorough look at your medical history. You will undergo an initial physical assessment to check things such as:

• Posture
• Range of motion
• Joint stability
• Strength
• Reflexes 
• Sensation

Your therapist will also inquire about your treatment goals. What is it you’re trying to achieve with physio? 

You will then receive a treatment plan that gets you on the path to achieving your goals. Your physiotherapist may prescribe homework for you to complete outside of the clinic. This may include exercises, heat therapy, acupuncture, or stretching.

You will continue seeing your therapist on a regular basis. Some people go once a week, others several times per week. The frequency of your visits will depend on your goals and current health condition. 

Is Physio Right For You?

Physiotherapists are an indispensable cog in the healthcare machine. The benefits of physiotherapy are plenty so if you want to live a healthier and pain-free life, give one a call. 

We hope our blog has helped to answer your, “What is physiotherapy?” question. Keep browsing our site for more informative articles to help you live a healthier life.