Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy, or physical therapy, is a healthcare field that restores movement and function to those affected by injury, illness, or disability. It uses a combination of techniques like exercise, massage, manual therapy, and education to help patients manage pain and improve their physical health. Physiotherapy can also prevent future injuries and helps with a wide range of conditions affecting muscles, bones, joints, and internal organs like the lungs and heart. 

How physiotherapy works

• Manual therapy: Includes hands-on techniques like massage and mobilization to relieve pain and improve movement.

• Exercise and movement: A physiotherapist will prescribe specific exercises to build strength, improve flexibility, and increase mobility.

• Education and advice: You will receive guidance on managing your condition and preventing future problems.

• Specialist techniques: Some treatments may include acupuncture, shockwave therapy, or breathing exercises for specific conditions. 

Conditions treated

• Musculoskeletal problems: Back and neck pain, sports injuries, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis.

• Neurological conditions: Stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease.

• Respiratory conditions: Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis.

• Cardiovascular conditions: Rehabilitation after a heart attack.

• Post-operative recovery: Helping patients regain function after surgery.

• Other issues: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and pelvic health problems. 

Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is a healthcare profession that uses a "whole person" approach to restore, maintain, and maximize a person's physical function, movement, and overall well-being. Physiotherapists work with people of all ages to help them manage pain, prevent disease and injury, and recover from illness or surgery.

Common conditions treated by physiotherapy

Physiotherapists work with a wide variety of conditions affecting the body's systems, including: 

• Musculoskeletal: Back pain, arthritis, sprains, strains, whiplash, neck pain, and sports injuries.

• Neurological: Stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, and other nervous system disorders.

• Cardiovascular: Rehabilitation for chronic heart disease and after a heart attack.

• Respiratory: Asthma, cystic fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

• Women's health: Issues related to pregnancy, pelvic pain, and incontinence.

• Geriatric: Age-related issues like balance problems and reduced mobility.

• Pediatric: Childhood conditions that affect movement and development, such as cerebral palsy. 

Physiotherapy techniques and methods

Physiotherapists use a combination of techniques, education, and advice tailored to each patient's needs. 

• Manual therapy: Hands-on treatment, such as massage and joint mobilization, to relieve pain, stiffness, and swelling.

• Therapeutic exercise: Prescribed exercises to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance.

• Education and advice: Guidance on posture, safe movement, and lifestyle modifications to help prevent future injuries.

• Electrotherapy: Using electrical impulses (TENS) or sound waves (ultrasound therapy) to relieve pain and stimulate healing.

• Hydrotherapy: Exercising in warm water to support the body and relax muscles.

• Acupuncture: Using fine needles for pain relief and to promote healing.

• Ergonomics: Assessing and modifying a patient's workspace to reduce strain and prevent injury. 

When to see a physiotherapist

You may benefit from physiotherapy if: 

• You have persistent pain or stiffness that affects your daily life.

• You're recovering from a recent injury, illness, or surgery.

• You have long-term conditions, such as arthritis, and want to manage symptoms.

• You want to improve your balance or mobility.

• You want to address work-related pain or posture issues.

• You are an athlete looking to prevent injuries and enhance performance.

• You are preparing for or recovering from childbirth. 

The future of physiotherapy

The field is increasingly incorporating technology and new care models. 

• Digital physiotherapy: Remote telehealth sessions, wearable sensors to track movement, and AI-driven platforms to personalize treatment plans.

• Prevention and wellness: A growing focus on proactive care, wellness programs, and lifestyle medicine to prevent injuries and promote overall health.

• Advanced roles: Physiotherapists are taking on expanded responsibilities, such as working as first-contact practitioners in GP surgeries and performing specialist assessments and procedures. 

How to become a physiotherapist

To become a physiotherapist in the UK, you must complete an approved university degree in physiotherapy and register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). 

• University degree: Full-time courses typically last three years, while part-time or accelerated Master's degrees are also available.

• Degree apprenticeship: In England, you can complete a degree apprenticeship, which combines on-the-job training with academic study.

• Continuing professional development: After qualifying, physiotherapists must stay up-to-date with new techniques and technologies through ongoing training and development.