Physiotherapy is a widely practised, multi-dimensional, varied treatment of a whole range of different concerns and conditions. In short, a physiotherapist treats a range of concerns, conditions, diseases and injuries through physical methods instead of opting for medication or surgery. However, we all know it’s a little more complex than that otherwise, it wouldn’t be such an effective practise. There’s a whole world of different types and definitions of physiotherapy, and this is because by nature the practice uses a multifaceted spectrum of treatment and care methods to repair patients.
Types of Physiotherapy
As with most medical and professional practises, there’s a generalised discipline and then there are specific areas of specialisation…
General Physiotherapy
General physiotherapy takes a holistic approach to repair pain, tension, injury and immobility in the body. A general approach to the professional will look to cater to a range of different conditions and requirements. Physios will use a combination of Pilates, stretches, exercises, massage, acupuncture and other specialised treatment methods to take a whole-body outlook on restoration.
Sports Physiotherapy
A sports or exercise physiotherapist works to restore or achieve full mobility for those who lead an active lifestyle, impact injury recovery, individuals who are about to undergo a large physical challenge or professional athletes who require ongoing support. There are no prerequisites to receiving sports physio treatment, the hands-on methods, exercise therapy, stretching techniques and massage care is designed to bring anyone back to peak condition – injured or otherwise.
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Musculoskeletal physiotherapy treats specific areas of the body (in the musculoskeletal region), namely muscles, bones, joints, nerves, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and discs. A specialist will use physical manipulation, treatments and general assessment to diagnose and repair any movement or posture disorders that are causing pain or injury. Treatments can include refined therapeutic exercises and electrotherapy.
Geriatric Physiotherapy
Geriatric physiotherapy is the treatment of older adults, usually about the age of 50 and above. As we get older, we experience new issues, pains and injuries that have accumulated over years of dealignment, pressure, gravity or just general wear and tear. Geriatric physios aim to improve strength, flexibility and balance in order to give ageing individuals their best passage into a different phase of life. Neurological, musculoskeletal and cardiopulmonary methods of rehabilitation are used in geriatric physiotherapy.
Paediatric Physiotherapy
Paediatric physiotherapists specialise in the treatment of adolescents and younger children. Little ones who are not fully developed yet require a different approach to their physiotherapy or rehabilitation, and a specialised professional is essential for their speedy recovery or achievement of full mobility.
Neurological Physiotherapy
Neurological specialists treat disorders and traumas within the nervous system. This can include a range of different issues such as strokes, brain injuries, Parkinson’s, MS and spinal cord injuries.
Cardiothoracic Physiotherapy
This is the treatment of cardio-respiratory problems including bronchitis, asthma and emphysema.
A physiotherapist has an incredibly varied and textured job with no two days in the week being just the same. The reason that physiotherapy is so effective is the open-minded, multifaceted approach to wellbeing. Therefore, to pin down the exact daily routine of a practised professional is pretty difficult. An accredited, qualified physio with great experience will be the best outlet if you’re on the hunt for a professional to work with you. Get searching for a talented, personable pro to provide you with effective physio solutions today.
