The Importance of Physiotherapists

 

The role of the Physiotherapist is to help people with any health problems or injuries through movement and exercise, manual therapy, education and advice. This profession helps to maintain health for people of all ages and encourages development and recovery, enabling patients to remain independent and in work.

Physiotherapy is a science-based profession that takes a ‘whole person approach to health and well-being, integrating a patient’s general lifestyle. At the core of this is the patient’s involvement in their care through education, awareness, empowerment and participation in their treatment.

A physiotherapist’s job is to diagnose a problem and suggest corrective actions to treat it, with various treatments such as manual therapy, massage, physical exercises and rehabilitation programmes. Physiotherapy is highly effective in treating multiple conditions associated with different body systems, including the musculoskeletal, neurological and respiratory systems.

You don’t have to go to your doctor before seeing a physiotherapist, but it is helpful if you do so they can get a good idea of your current health, any previous injuries and how much exercise you do. Checking your private health insurance is also beneficial, as you can claim physiotherapy.

Some people avoid going to a physiotherapist because they think it will make them feel worse, but this isn’t always the case! Physiotherapists are expertly trained in using hands-on techniques to improve movement, reduce pain and prevent injury. They may also use machines or resistance bands to build strength, and they can prescribe exercises for you to do at home.

Injuries can happen to anyone at any time, so it’s a good idea to visit your physiotherapist regularly to keep up with your fitness and avoid injuries that could put you out of action. In addition, they can monitor your training regime and help you with any muscle or joint problems that might increase the risk of an injury, such as tight hamstrings or poor posture.

The benefits of physiotherapy can extend well beyond treating injuries and conditions and include managing health conditions like diabetes or cancer, improving balance and posture and preventing disease. Physiotherapists are also highly skilled at supporting women before and after childbirth, as well as athletes.

Blood pressure: Stress is often linked to higher blood pressure, but physiotherapy can be used to manage it effectively through relaxation and breathing exercises. Physiotherapy can also address other health issues that might contribute to high blood pressure, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Diabetics - If you have diabetes, your physiotherapist will be able to show you how to improve your circulation by increasing the amount of fluid in your body and decreasing the level of sugar in your blood. They can also help you improve your blood pressure through regular physiotherapy sessions and by assisting you with diet and medication management.