Physiotherapy – Common Questions And Answers

What Do Physiotherapists Do?

Physiotherapists are experts in the movement and structure of the human body. Physio’s work with all ages and treat a wide range of conditions such as sports injuries, chronic health conditions, musculoskeletal conditions, arthritis and much more.

Physiotherapists aim to get their patients moving well and restore them to a place of optimal functional capacity helping them prevent future injuries. Physio often involves hands-on treatments such as massage, dry needling, joint mobilisation, manipulation and other manual therapy. Home exercise programs are also an important aspect of physio treatments in many cases. This helps with recovery time and improves strength and flexibility.

Physiotherapists have the knowledge and experience to accurately assess, diagnose and treat a broad range of conditions, and help to improve the quality of life of their patients. Some of the condition’s physiotherapy can help with include:

• Arthritis
• Back pain
• Knee pain
• Neck pain
• Sprains and strains
• Neurological conditions (e.g. Parkinson’s disease)
• Chronic disease
• Rehabilitation after surgery
• Recovery from broken bones
• Occupational health
• Developmental problems in children

A physiotherapist will assess a patient’s condition and deliver the most appropriate treatment options for the specific condition. Physiotherapists aim to improve a patient’s quality of life by increasing their mobility, strength and overall level of function. They are also experts at providing education to prevent injury and disease.

Why Physiotherapy Is Important?

Physiotherapy is important because it helps patients who have been affected by injury, disability and illness using exercise, movement, manual therapy, advice and education. Physios help to maintain the health of all ages, help to prevent disease, and manage pain to improve the quality of life for many people.

Physiotherapists work amongst a broad range of conditions including musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiothoracic problems. A physio near you assists those with chronic health conditions, provide self-management advice and provide lifestyle modifications to improve the health of their patients.

Physiotherapy benefits include:

• Injury, disease and disability prevention
• Promotes overall health and wellness through mobility and physical activity
• Chronic illness management
• Improves and maintains overall physical function
• Promotes functional independence
• Provides rehabilitation from injury and the effects of disease
• Provides education, support and prevention strategies

Why Physiotherapy Is Needed?

Physiotherapy is beneficial as it has the ability to treat a wide range of conditions. Physiotherapy uses exercise and manual therapy techniques to reduce pain, improve mobility and help with recovery from injury. Physiotherapy may also help a patient avoid surgery in some cases.

Physiotherapy helps patients to get the most out of life. Physios help to increase mobility, reduce pain and stiffness, assist with recovery from injuries and prevent further injury. You don’t need a referral to see a physiotherapist, and physio treatments work well in conjunction with other health professionals to help manage and treat specific conditions.

Does Physiotherapy Really Work?

Physiotherapy is an evidence-based practice, using treatments that have been proven effective through scientific research. In Australia, a physio must have obtained a minimum of a Bachelor Degree in physiotherapy, however quite often Physio’s have completed further studies such as a Masters or Doctorate. All Physiotherapists must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Registration Agency.