Physiotherapy

Written by Brett Harrop

Updated:

What is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a therapeutic health profession that assists people with injuries, pain, stiffness, weakness, and other movement problems. Physiotherapists are university trained and are experts in injury diagnosis, injury treatment, injury prevention, exercise prescription, rehabilitation and many other areas of sport and musculoskeletal health and fitness.

Physiotherapists also have the expertise to assess the underlying causes of musculoskeletal injuries and provide effective, evidence based treatment so you can resume your normal lifestyle as soon as possible with the least likelihood of recurrence. Physiotherapists educate patients and teach them the skills required to take care of their bodies using various tools and methods.

Physiotherapy Treatment
Figure 1 – Physiotherapy Treatment


Physiotherapy treatment techniques

Following injury, physiotherapists use a variety of physiotherapy treatment techniques to hasten the body’s natural healing process and speed recovery. These treatment techniques may include:

The techniques used for each individual are carefully selected by the treating practitioner based on research demonstrating maximum benefit for their particular condition.


Other areas of physiotherapy

Aside from dealing with musculoskeletal and sports conditions, physiotherapy is also vital to ensure an optimal outcome in patients suffering from conditions in the following medical areas:


Seeing a physiotherapist

In Australia you do not need a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist, unless you wish to be claiming the injury through insurance as a workplace injury or motor vehicle accident.

All physiotherapists are university educated health practitioners, with entry to the profession being at either Bachelors or Masters Degree level. Many practitioners also undertake further qualifications at Masters or Doctoral level in specialist clinical areas.



When should I see a physio?

There are many instances when it is appropriate and beneficial to consult a physio. Some of these include:

As a general rule, if you are unsure, it is always better to consult a professional rather than not seek advice.



How can physiotherapy help my injury?

Physiotherapy can ensure your injury is thoroughly assessed and diagnosed correctly. This is essential to ensure the correct treatment techniques are chosen for your condition.

Physiotherapy treatment can hasten your body’s natural healing process, accelerating your return to sport or activity. Appropriate treatment will also reduce the likelihood of recurrence by addressing factors which may have contributed to the development of your condition. Physiotherapists are experts in advising patients on which activities are appropriate for their injury to maximize recovery and ensure an optimal outcome.


Which clinic should I go to for treatment?

Choosing the right clinic for treatment can be difficult. Whilst all physiotherapists are university trained and qualified, it is important to select a practitioner who is trusted, knowledgeable and friendly and can provide the best quality treatment for your injury. When it comes to choosing a physiotherapist there are no hard and fast rules, but some things worth considering include:

Some additional information which may assist you in making your decision may include:


Find a Physio Find a Physio

Find a physio in your local area using PhysioAdvisor’s Find a Physio directory.


Physiotherapy Products to Assist with Postural ExercisesPhysiotherapy Products

Purchase physiotherapist recommended products online at the PhysioAdvisor Shop.



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