Physiotherapists are medical practitioners who help patients improve strength, coordination, and flexibility. They also treat various medical conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders. Generally, you don't need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist, though certain medical aid plans may require a referral.
Physiotherapists treat musculo-skeletal disorders by using advanced techniques to restore mobility and function. This field focuses on biomechanical and structural rehabilitation and creates adaptable treatment strategies to address each patient's needs. Musculo-skeletal physiotherapy is typically used for sports injuries, but is also a valuable treatment option for people who have physical limitations related to lifestyle or aging.
Musculoskeletal disorders are very common medical conditions, affecting one-third of the population in the United States alone. Many of them are caused by lifestyle factors, such as sedentary work or long hours on equipment. However, physical activity is crucial for maintaining musculo-skeletal health.
A physiotherapist helps patients improve their strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility by working on a variety of muscles. Physiotherapists often work with patients to improve their balance, as it is crucial for walking. A physiotherapist will help you develop a program based on your specific needs and limitations.
Physical therapists help patients improve their movement and balance by teaching exercises to strengthen weak muscles and improve muscle strength. They also help people correct poor posture, which can affect balance. A physiotherapist may also use resistance bands to avoid stressing joints. Physiotherapists will also work with you to determine your goals. Depending on your condition, a physiotherapist may prescribe specific physical activity or passive motions to improve your movement.
Exercises are essential for maintaining balance. Physiotherapists will teach you balance exercises that gradually increase your strength and flexibility. Balance exercises can be challenging but can be beneficial for improving your balance, mobility, and endurance. Balance exercises can also help people who are overweight or obese, since weight is not evenly distributed throughout the body.
Physiotherapists in Chatsworth also diagnose and treat obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is a group of disorders that affects the lungs, including asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. In some patients, all three conditions are present. Chronic bronchitis affects the airways and causes more mucus than usual, while emphysema causes damage to the alveoli in the lungs.
Physiotherapy is an important part of COPD treatment, particularly respiratory rehabilitation. The aim of respiratory rehabilitation is to improve the patient's quality of life and function during daily activities. Exercises may involve strength training and endurance exercises with bodyweight or resistance bands. Aerobic activities can also be included in the programme. The intensity of these activities is determined by the physiotherapist. It's important for patients to maintain exercise tolerance because studies have found that reduced exercise tolerance is associated with higher rates of hospital readmissions and reduced quality of life.
While most people do not need a physician's referral to see a physiotherapist in Chatsworth, certain medical aid plans require a physician's referral for certain conditions. Some of these conditions include pelvic issues, including bladder and bowel problems related to childbirth. Others can result from trauma to the spine or brain, as in the case of Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.
A physical therapist can provide a variety of services without a physician's referral. These health care professionals usually focus on wellness and prevention issues, rather than injuries or dysfunctions caused by medical conditions. Therefore, many clinics offer wellness programs, some of which may not be covered by insurance.