Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Therapy

Physiotherapy is practised by professionals that are concerned with improving a person’s mobility and subsequently their quality of life. These professionals are tertiary-qualified and highly trained. Physiotherapy is widely accessible with physiotherapists available in private practices, sports facilities, hospitals, schools, workplaces, aged care facilities and more.

Role of a Physiotherapist

The primary role of a physiotherapist is to assess a patient’s condition and to find the underlying causes of pain, whether it be in the joints, muscles or nerves. They also advise the patients on ways to manage their condition and show them how they can prevent further pain or injury.

Techniques Employed

Physiotherapy is a drug-free therapy and some techniques that are employed include:

• joint mobilisation and manipulation
• exercise and stretches
• soft tissue massage
• the use of electrophysical agents such as ice, heat packs and ultrasound
• breathing exercises and techniques

Conditions Treated by a Physiotherapist

Physiotherapy is available to people of all ages – from infants to the elderly – and is an important tool in the management of some conditions. Conditions that can be treated include:

• back and neck pain
• muscular pain and sports injuries
• neurological disorders such as stroke or Parkinson’s Disease
• rehabilitation after major accidents or injuries occur
• headaches
• incontinence
• recovery after surgery or childbirth
• the management and prevention of chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)