Physiotherapy 101: Everything You Need to Know

Physiotherapy 101: Everything You Need to Know

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that addresses a person’s ability to move and function optimally. It plays a pivotal role in managing physical complications stemming from various conditions. While some physiotherapists work autonomously, others specialize in particular areas like sports injuries, pediatric care, or geriatric care

Motiva Physiotherapy Studio, based in Surrey, is ready to help you with all your physical therapy needs. The Motiva Approach is tailored for individuals who have challenging pain, injuries, and physical health issues. Our therapists aim for positive outcomes, even in chronic or severe conditions, by addressing every system in the body that is involved or impacted through a comprehensive and holistic approach. 

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about physiotherapy.

What is Physiotherapy?

The goal of physiotherapy is to improve a person’s ability to move, function, and feel good through physical healing, injury prevention, and promoting overall health and fitness. Physiotherapists motivate individuals to actively participate in their own recovery.

What Does a Physiotherapist Do?

If you are experiencing chronic pain or an injury impacting your daily activities, it may be beneficial to seek the assistance of a physiotherapist. These experts specialize in the study of movement and can help determine the underlying causes of your problem. Patients are often referred to physiotherapy by doctors following surgeries like hip replacements or after events such as heart attacks or strokes.

A physiotherapist’s approach is comprehensive. They consider factors like a patient’s diet, hydration, stress levels, and even psychological perceptions of pain. This holistic method ensures that the root cause of a problem is addressed, not just the symptoms. 

When Should I Visit a Physiotherapist?

People often overlook minor injuries, hoping they’ll heal on their own. However, consistent pain, reduced mobility, unusual sensations, or discomfort while performing daily tasks can be indicators that professional intervention is necessary. 

What are the Benefits of Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy addresses the following:

  • Mobility and Movement

Physiotherapy exercises, coupled with treatments like ultrasound, can significantly enhance mobility. 

  • Avoiding Surgery

Physical therapy can potentially negate the need for surgery in some cases. 

  • Managing Age-related Issues

Conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis can be better managed through regular physiotherapy. 

  • Balance and Coordination

This is especially vital for the elderly, where enhanced balance can prevent falls. 

  • Sports Therapy

Athletes benefit greatly from physiotherapy, both in terms of injury prevention and performance enhancement.

Conditions Commonly Treated by Physiotherapists

Physiotherapists treat a multitude of conditions which can include:

Musculoskeletal Disorders 

  • Back Pain: 

Caused by issues such as disc problems, postural problems, sciatica, or muscle strain. 

  • Neck Pain: 

Often due to whiplash, posture problems, or muscle tightness. 

  • Joint Problems:

Including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and various types of injuries. 

  • Sprains and Strains

From various activities, including sports or everyday movements. 

  • Fracture Rehabilitation

After the acute treatment of a bone fracture. 

  • Postural Dysfunction

Conditions stemming from poor posture or ergonomic problems. 

Sports-related Injuries 

  • Tennis/Golfer’s Elbow

Overuse injuries of the elbow tendons. 

  • Runner’s Knee

Pain around or under the kneecap often from overuse or misalignment. 

  • Ankle Sprains

Often from twisted or rolled ankles. 

  • Hamstring or Quadriceps Strains

Common in athletes who sprint. 

  • Rotator Cuff Injuries

Problems with the group of muscles and tendons stabilizing the shoulder. 

  • Shin Splints

Pain along the shin bone, often seen in runners. 

Neurological Disorders

  • Stroke Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy aids in recovering movement and strength post-stroke. 

  • Parkinson’s Disease

Can help manage the physical symptoms. Multiple Sclerosis: Managing mobility and function issues. 

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries

Rehabilitation for movement and cognitive functions. 

  • Spinal Cord Injuries

Regaining as much function as possible after injury. 

Cardiorespiratory Conditions

  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): 

Techniques to improve breathing and oxygenation.

  • Asthma Management: 

Breathing exercises and techniques. 

  • Post-myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack) Rehabilitation: 

Structured exercises to regain cardiovascular health. 

  • Rehabilitation After Lung Surgery: 

Helping to regain lung function and strength. 

Pediatric Conditions 

  • Cerebral Palsy:

Improving mobility and function in children. 

  • Muscular Dystrophy

Managing the decline in muscle strength. 

  • Developmental Delays

Assisting children who aren’t meeting typical developmental milestones. 

Women’s Health & Pelvic Floor 

  • Rehabilitation Postpartum 

Addressing issues like diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles).

  • Incontinence

Helping with urinary or fecal incontinence through pelvic floor exercises. 

  • Pelvic Pain

Addressing pain caused by various conditions, including endometriosis or interstitial cystitis. 

Elderly Care

  • Balance and Gait Disorders

Reducing the risk of falls and improving mobility. 

  • Osteoporosis:

Weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones. 

  • Joint Replacements

Rehabilitation after procedures like hip or knee replacements. 

This is not an exhaustive list. The breadth and scope of physiotherapy are vast, and physiotherapists can specialize in any of these areas, offering targeted and tailored treatments for patients.

 Physiotherapy Services Available in Surrey, Delta

If you have any questions about the services we offer at Motiva Physical, our team is available to assist you. You can contact us by calling our office or scheduling an appointment online.