Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that assesses, diagnoses, treats, and works to prevent disease and disability through physical 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 ageing 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.
APA Titled physiotherapists are highly qualified physiotherapists with expert knowledge and skills in their area of practice. They undergo a rigorous selection process to ensure that they achieve and maintain exceptional standards of clinical experience and knowledge.
Physiotherapists can treat a variety of different conditions. Anything from headaches and jaw pain to sporting injuries and post operative rehab. Physiotherapy can also provide relief from degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis and can assist in rehab following a stroke or brain injury.
No. It is not neccessary to have a doctor's referral when seeing a physiotherapist however, your physiotherapist will work together with your doctor and other health care professionals to ensure you receive the best possible treatment.
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 treatment methods physiotherapists may use:
• 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)
• dry needling
• assistance with use of aids, splints, crutches, walking sticks and wheelchairs.
Yes. Physiotherapy is both safe and effective during pregnancy. A physiotherapist can treat many common conditions that can cause pain during pregnancy and provide advice on pelvic floor exercises and general body conditioning.
Physiotherapists are university trained health care professionals. 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.
