What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is concerned with:

The assessment, treatment and prevention of human movement disorders:

restoring normal function

b.

minimising dysfunction

c.

minimising pain

d.

enabling patients to achieve the highest functional level possible

The prevention of recurring injuries and disability in the workplace, at home, or during recreational activities

3.

The promotion of community health for all age groups

What techniques do Physiotherapists use?

Physiotherapy is a highly researched medical afield and new techniques are developed annually to improve a Physiotherapist’s approach to his/her patient and address the patient’s problem more effectively.  Some of the techniques and modalities Physiotherapists utilise include:

1.

Joint and vertebral manipulation 

2.

Massage and acupressure

Relaxation techniques

4.

Hydrotherapy

Electrotherapy equipment such as ultrasound, interferential current and laser/light therapy

Heat and ice

7.

Joint and spinal traction

8.

Immobilisation such as rigid taping or strapping

9.

Myofascial techniques such as Kinesio Taping and dry needling

Physiotherapists are often referred to as 'movement specialists'. They are trained to assess and treat a variety of conditions that affect the physical function of adults and children.

What do Physiotherapists treat?

Physiotherapists specialise in the treatment and management of several conditions and injuries.  In summary, these are:

1.

Heart and lung conditions

2.

Treatment with electrical stimulation and physical agents

Health in old age

4.

Skin and organs

Brain, spinal cord and nerves

Bones and connective tissue

Children’s health

If you like more detailed information on these conditions, read on:

1.

Cardiovascular & Pulmonary

Heart attacks, post coronary bypass surgery, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, bronchitis, bronchopneumonia, pneumonia.

2.

Electrophysiology

Electrotherapy/physical agents, physical agents such as heat and ice, and wound management.

3.

Geriatric

Arthritis, osteoporosis, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, hip and joint replacement, balance disorders, incontinence, etc.(check out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOkl_WhhGYw)

4.

Skin and Organ

Wounds and burns.  Exercise, edema control, splinting, and compression garments.

5.

Neurological

Alzheimer's disease, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), ALS, brain injury, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, and stroke.Impairments of vision, balance, ambulation, activities of daily living, movement, muscle strength and loss of functional independence.

Orthopedic

Post-operative orthopedic procedures, fractures, acute sports injuries, arthritis, sprains, strains, back and neck pain, spinal conditions and amputations.Joint and spine mobilization and manipulation, therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, hot and cold packs, and electrical muscle stimulation (e.g., cryotherapy, iontophoresis, electrotherapy.(check out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytrVeNZwxAY&;;;feature=related)

7.

Pediatric

Gross and fine motor skills, balance and coordination, strength and endurance as well as cognitive and sensory processing/integration.Developmental delays, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and torticollis.

Sports

Athletic injury management, including acute care, treatment and rehabilitation, prevention, and education.(check out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-M0BN-k4Dg)

9.

Women's health physical therapy addresses women's issues related to child birth, and post-partum. These conditions include lymphedema, osteoporosis, pelvic pain, prenatal and post-partum periods, and urinary incontinence.