• Cardiorespiratory : asthma , breathing disorders , cystic fibrosis , heart disease , pre / post cardiac surgery
• Systemic : cancer management , palliative care , burn care , pre / post pregnancy care , obesity management , women ’ s / men ’ s sexual health management , chronic pain
There has also been a recent rise in the number of physiotherapists working with animals for rehabilitation post injury . For example , race horses are a common population for physiotherapists to work with .
Q . Where can you find physiotherapists ? A . Most people associate physiotherapists with hospital wards , clinics , or sports teams . However , physiotherapists can actually work in a wide variety of settings . They can collaborate with teaching staff in schools to improve childhood development , work in the community with seniors in home care or assisted living , assist physicians in the ER , aid insurance companies in workers compensations boards , conduct research or teach in tertiary educational settings , or get involved with leadership and planning within various physiotherapy governing bodies .
Q . Is physiotherapy effective ? A . Physiotherapy is a non-invasive drug free treatment option for people . Research has shown that it is extremely effective and the first line of treatment for many conditions . In addition to treating conditions , it is equally effective in preventing further injuries . This is why many elite athletes use physiotherapists to maintain their optimal function . Along with physical improvement , physiotherapy can also better someone mentally , emotionally , and socially .
Q . What treatments do physiotherapists employ ? A . There are a wide variety of treatment options available given your individual needs . The following are some popular ones that most physiotherapists are well versed in :
• massage techniques : promoting muscle relaxation
• hydrotherapy : movement therapy in the pool
• electrotherapy : utilizing currents on the muscles to improve movement
• manual therapy : physically moving joints and soft tissue to improve alignment
• exercise therapy : strengthening key muscles to improve function and movement
• dry needling : inserting needles into muscle trigger points to relieve tension
• taping : using sports or kinesio tape to stabilise joints and improve function
Q . What is the difference between physiotherapy , chiropractic treatment , and osteopathy ?
A . All three professions treat joint and musculoskeletal problems but have different approaches .
Chiropractors primarily address the spine and focus on manipulation “ cracking ” techniques to realign joints . More and more chiropractors are starting to use active release techniques to address muscle tightness and prescribing exercise to improve function .
Osteopaths are natural health practitioners who treat the body as a whole , accounting for the interrelationship between different body systems . They believe in having a strong dialogue with the body tissue . The focus with treatment is on mind , body , and spiritual awareness . In addition to musculoskeletal problems , osteopaths can also treat ear pain , sinuses , hernias , and asthma .
Physiotherapists treat the primary source of the problem and any other factors affecting the condition . They utilise a variety of techniques to improve function , and some are certified to perform manipulations as well . Physiotherapists specialise in soft tissue injuries like muscle strains or ligament strains . The use of physiotherapy isn ’ t limited to musculoskeletal problems and can apply across a wide spectrum .
Q . Is physiotherapy hard or painful ? A . Although some parts of treatment may be a little uncomfortable , physiotherapists make an effort to ensure that any technique used doesn ’ t cause more pain . Physiotherapists also require people to be an active participant in their therapy . You will be well educated with an exercise programme to complete as homework ! If you aren ’ t diligent with your practice at home , the desired results from therapy may take longer for you to achieve .
Q . What can I expect on my first visit ? A . Your first visit will consist of an assessment and treatment session . Your physiotherapist will ask you questions regarding your medical history , your current issue , and what your expectations are . Next they will run through a physical examination trying to diagnose what the problem is . Then they will explain the situation , how long it might take , and what the treatment options are . In collaboration with you , a treatment plan will be created .
Q . How long does physiotherapy take ? A . This often depends on the condition . Physiotherapists require multiple sessions with their patients , often averaging between 6-12 treatments across 1-2 months . Usually , the frequency of sessions is higher in the beginning and reduces with time . The goal is to produce a full recovery in which you do not have to visit your physiotherapist for that issue again . Depending on the situation , a session every few months might be required to establish ongoing management . n
Chiropractors primarily address the spine and focus on manipulation “ cracking ” techniques to realign joints
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