Physiotherapy Defined
Physiotherapy is a clinical health science and profession that aims to rehabilitate and improve people with movement disorders by using evidence-based, natural methods. “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 Website).
Watch this short film clip from the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) to see how physiotherapy could help you and your family return to your goals of work, activity and sport.
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What kind of treatment can I expect to receive?
Physiotherapists will create an individual treatment plan taking into account your everyday activities, lifestyle, work and sporting commitments. Treatments you can expect to receive as part of your plan may include;
- Tailored exercise programs to increase strength and improve mobility
- Joint manipulations to improve mobilisation and symptoms of pain and stiffness
- Breathing exercises
- Massage therapy to release muscle and soft tissue
- Dry needling
- Real time ultrasound
- Assistance with the use of walking boots, braces, casts and crutches
- Post-operative rehabilitation
What can I expect from a Sports Physiotherapist?
Sports physiotherapy focuses on the treatment, management, prevention and rehabilitation of injuries sustained during playing sports. Common sports injuries include bruises, strains and sprains, and joint injuries, caused by a direct blow or indirect force. Over-use injuries, such as stress fractures, are also a common sports injury.
Physiotherapy treatment will enable you to build strength, mobility, balance and co-ordination to overcome your injury and allow you to return to your sport safely and with the aim of avoiding re-injury.
For more information
Head to the APA website for more information on the physiotherapy profession. Remember a referral is not required to see a physiotherapist so for more information or to book a consultation call us on (02) 8323 7777 .