Physical Therapy (Physiotherapy)
Physical Therapy (Physiotherapy) – ETHOS HEALTH CARE
Physiotherapy is also known as physical therapy. It also promotes movement and reduces pain. It is a form of healthcare which is designed to cure a number of injuries and illnesses using a number of different methods and movements.
Physiotherapy is an effective form of treatment for a wide range of conditions. It is used to help ease the pain associated with joint discomforts, pains in your bones, conditions of the heart, lungs, mind, and conditions from childhood and due to old age. The primary goal of physiotherapy is to restore normal body function by using different treatments, including exercising, eating balanced diet, massages, electrotherapy techniques and airway clearance techniques.
The three different types of physiotherapy include:
- Musculoskeletal – it is used to treat muscles, bones and joints. Common conditions treated include back pain, sprains, strains, arthritis, bursitis, workplace and sports injuries, problems with posture, incontinence and reduced mobility. Rehabilitation after surgery is also offered.
- Cardiothoracic – it is used to treat disorders of the cardio-respiratory system including asthma, emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Rehabilitation after thoracic surgery can also be offered.
- Neurological – it is used to treat disorders of the nervous system including acquired head injuries, stroke, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. Rehabilitation after brain surgery can also be offered.
Different techniques used by physiotherapists
- Manual therapy techniques – it involves the use of the hands to mobilise joints and soft tissues. It improves movement of different parts of the body and relieve pain and help relaxation.
- Aquatic therapy – this therapy is carried out in water, usually a warm, shallow swimming pool or special hydrotherapy pool. It improves blood circulation, relieves pain and relaxes muscles.
- Movement and exercise – it uses therapeutic exercises designed to strengthen the affected body area. Gentle activities such as walking or swimming may be recommended if you are recovering from an operation or sports injury that affects your mobility.
Benefits of Physiotherapy
- It improves joint mobility
- It increases strength and coordination
- It improves cardiorespiratory function.
- It eliminates or minimizes the pain
- It increases function at work and play
- Being able to sleep uninterrupted