Physiotherapist with patient

Ask The Physio: What Is Physiotherapy?

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Physiotherapist with patient

Physiotherapist with patient

Following recent presentations at Revesby Workers’ Club it became clear that not everyone was familiar with what the role of a Physiotherapist is, or how they can help you.

WHAT IS PHYSIOTHERAPY?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that assesses, diagnoses, treats, and works to prevent painful conditions, diseases and disability through physical therapy means. Physiotherapists are experts in movement and function who work in partnership with their patients, assisting them to overcome movement disorders, which may have been present from birth, acquired through accident or injury, or are the result of aging or life-changing events.

Physiotherapy can help recover from injury, reduce pain and stiffness, and increase mobility. A physiotherapist can also help you prevent further injury by listening to your needs and working with you to plan the most appropriate treatment for your condition, including setting goals and treatment outcomes.

As first contact practitioners, a doctor’s referral is not necessary to see a physiotherapist. Physiotherapists, doctors, and other health professionals will often work as part of a team to plan and manage treatment for a specific condition.

WHAT SORT OF TREATMENT DO PHYSIOTHERAPISTS USE?

Physiotherapists are trained to assess your condition, diagnose the problem, and help you understand what’s wrong. Your treatment plan will take into account your lifestyle, activities, and general health. The following are common treatments used by Physiotherapists:

  • Exercise programs to improve mobility and strengthen muscles
  • Joint manipulation and mobilisation to reduce pain and stiffness
  • Muscle re-education to improve control
  • Soft tissue mobilisation (massage)
  • Acupuncture/dry needling

Assistance with use of aids, splints, crutches, walking sticks and wheelchairs.

WHAT CONDITIONS DO PHYSIOTHERAPISTS HELP WITH?

Physiotherapists help in a variety of conditions throughout the body, and may include musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiopulmonary based conditions. At Revesby Physiotherapy we specialise in musculoskeletal injuries such as neck and lower back pain, shoulder, knee and wrist and foot pain. These injuries can be as a result of an acute injury, an overuse or work related injury or as part of the aging/degeneration process.

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS ARE REQUIRED TO PRACTICE AS A PHYSIOTHERAPIST?

Physiotherapy courses vary across the country and entry may be through a bachelor, masters or professional doctorate program. Physiotherapists are required by law to be registered with the Physiotherapists Registration Board in the state or territory in which they are practicing.

Revesby Physiotherapy has been established for more than 25 years and provides the local area with a high level of expertise in the assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries.

Health Mates members receive a discount on treatment – phone them today on 9772 2586 and arrange your free initial assessment