5 FAQs About Physiotherapy

physical Therapist

We often take our physical health for granted, not giving our bodies a second thought – until we suddenly find ourselves experiencing stiffness, aches and pains, and loss of strength and mobility… and then it’s all we can think about!

In such circumstances, it can be beneficial to go and see a physiotherapist who will carry out a physical assessment and work with you to devise a programme of exercise and manual therapy to restore full function once again.

To help you decide if physio is the right course of action for you, here are some of the more frequently asked questions we get from prospective clients. If you need any further help or advice, get in touch with the team today.

What is physiotherapy?

Simply put, physiotherapy is the practice of restoring movement and function when you’ve been affected by disability, illness or injury.

What can physiotherapy help with?

Physio can help with a wide range of conditions, both short and long term. These include back pain, unexpected injuries like sprains and strains, recovery from surgery, sports rehab, childbirth, arthritis and so on.

What happens during a physiotherapy session?

During your first appointment, an in-depth assessment will be carried out, including a medical history and physical examination, to determine the best course of action. 

From there, a personalised recovery programme can be devised, including movement, exercise, education, advice and manual therapy. You will likely be heavily involved in your own care programme and you may be referred to other specialists.

Is physiotherapy effective?

Physiotherapy is considered to be a safe and effective form of treatment for relevant conditions. It can also be used for injury prevention.

How is physiotherapy different to massage therapy?

While physiotherapy can involve massage techniques, these are utilised in line with a wider strategy to address underlying physical concerns. Massage therapy, meanwhile, aims to deliver deep relaxation, relieve stress and help with muscle tightness.