Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that promotes recovery from illness, injury and disability. It is performed by physiotherapists who are HCPC registered health professionals, and take a person centred approach where the patient is involved directly in their own care. They use their skills in rehabilitation sciences, anatomy, kinesiology and physiology to assess, treat and manage pain, injuries, movement dysfunction and chronic conditions. They work autonomously and collaboratively alongside physicians and healthcare teams. They are also trained in manual therapy techniques and many are Fellows of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapists (FCAMPT).

There are many reasons to see a physiotherapist:

Following a health crisis: A stroke, heart attack, traumatic brain injury or surgery often leaves people with significant limitations in their movement and function that can be addressed with physiotherapy.

Athletes seeking to optimize their performance: Physiotherapy can help people with physical limitations achieve their potential for athletic success.

General wellness: Those with an interest in staying strong, healthy and flexible will often engage in physiotherapy to prevent or address issues that may arise due to aging, illness, or injury.

Physiotherapy can be provided in many ways, including:

Exercise programs: A physiotherapist https://physiodandenong.com.au/mobile-physio-melbourne/ will teach patients a variety of exercises and movements that they can do at home to improve their strength, balance and flexibility. They will help them develop and implement a program that fits in with their daily life, lifestyle and personal fitness goals.

Manual therapies: A physiotherapist can offer a number of different hands on treatments, including soft tissue techniques such as stretching or myofascial release which are similar to massage. They can perform joint mobilization and manipulation, use specialized tools for treatment and apply ice or heat to reduce inflammation, spasm or stiffness. They can also utilize ultrasound electrotherapy to accelerate the healing process and reduce pain and swelling. They can also offer acupuncture to control pain and tension, and to promote circulation and relaxation.

Other modalities: Physiotherapists can offer hydrotherapy, which is a therapeutic treatment in a warm water pool. They can also provide TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), which is a device that sends pulses of electricity to the nerve endings, changing the way the body processes pain signals.

Physiotherapy can be expensive, so you should check your private health insurance coverage before getting started. You might be able to claim some of the costs back if you have been referred by your doctor or have a chronic disease like asthma that requires management with medication. Physiotherapy can be an excellent investment in your overall quality of life. Make sure you choose a reputable practitioner who is licensed, insured and registered with the HCPC. You can find a local practitioner using the healthdirect service finder or ask your family physician for a recommendation. You can also search for a physiotherapist on the physiotherapy association website.