People visiting physiotherapists (also referred to as physical therapists) for injuries often do so with referrals from their doctors, while others decide to get assistance.

Physiotherapy (PT) is an evidence-based healthcare profession focused on optimising movement and increasing physical potential, using manual therapy, exercise therapy, education and advice as tools. Furthermore, its scope extends to assessing, preventing, treating/intervening and rehabilitating patients.

Treatment

Advance-Allied physio Prospect Physiotherapists specialise in treating various injuries and health issues, working with clients of all ages to address the source of pain or injury. Treatment options may include manual therapy, education and exercises.

Physicians typically refer patients to physiotherapists following major health events like heart attacks or strokes, needing assistance to return them to normal functioning. Furthermore, they provide vital assistance for chronic conditions like asthma or arthritis requiring ongoing support.

The focus of most physiotherapists’ practice lies within the musculoskeletal system, treating muscles, ligaments, bones and joints to reduce stiffness and improve mobility. Joint manipulation or massage to ease stiffness or increase mobility may also be included as treatment methods; cardiopulmonary physiotherapy offers another specialty within this realm of practice.

Sports physiotherapy is an area of physiotherapy dedicated to athletes and sports professionals. Practitioners in this specialty field specialise in treating injuries sustained during athletic competition and working towards getting them back to full strength as soon as possible, often providing advice such as posture correction techniques or sleeping position assistance as part of a holistic wellness approach.

Exercises

Advance-Allied physio Prospect physiotherapist will suggest specific exercises designed to stretch, strengthen and increase range of motion. These may be combined with manual therapy or electrotherapy treatments at home for maximum benefit.

Exercise may enhance mobility, decrease pain, and treat or prevent issues like back pain. Your physiotherapist may recommend other forms of treatment depending on its cause, such as hydrotherapy, electrical stimulation or heat/cold therapy.

Education

A physiotherapist is trained to assess your pain, injury or illness and devise a personalised treatment plan to return you to health. Their four-year course typically includes one year of clinical practice.

Some individuals suffer from chronic health conditions that lead to physical issues like osteoarthritis, back pain, sciatica, arthritis, asthma and vertigo. These problems are best managed and prevented with help from physiotherapists.

Whether you are an active sportsperson or wish to stay physically fit, physios can assist with keeping injuries at bay. By carrying out pre-season screening to identify weaknesses or vulnerabilities and creating an individual training program ensuring you’re ready to compete as soon as the season starts, physios are invaluable allies for staying in peak physical condition and competing successfully.

Work experience opportunities in healthcare can be found at hospitals, physiotherapy practices, sports clubs and nursing homes. You can also gain valuable experience volunteering with organisations. Furthermore, paid positions are available with GP surgeries and private care homes for healthcare. You will be taught various subjects throughout your studies, including anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and current research findings.

Advice

Advance-Allied physio Prospect Physiotherapists can offer advice to improve health and well-being, from lifting techniques or posture improvements that will prevent repetitive strain injury caused by typing or prolonged sitting to optimising work environments to reduce shoulder, back, neck or knee pain.

Prevention

Physiotherapists use their expertise to prevent injury, allowing patients to live more actively. They assess a patient’s injuries and develop a tailored treatment plan.

They also work to improve posture and movement patterns, providing advice about ergonomics at home and in the workplace. It can help prevent workplace injuries. They can also help prevent falls in the elderly by identifying potential risk factors and prescribing structured exercise programs to reduce fall risk.

Physiotherapy is an important part of maintaining health for people of all ages. Whether dealing with a major health crisis (like a heart attack or stroke) or managing a long-term medical condition (such as asthma), physiotherapists have the skills and knowledge to support their patients to maintain optimum function. It can be done through movement, exercise, manual therapy, education, and advice. Physiotherapists also can collaborate professionally with a wide variety of healthcare professionals to provide a comprehensive patient-centred service.