What is a Physiotherapist?

physio

Physiotherapist is a medical professional that provides a variety of services for patients with musculoskeletal problems. Physical therapy, otherwise known as physio, is actually one of the primary allied healthcare professions. It is normally offered by certified physical therapists who advocate, maintain, improve, restore, or repair health through comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, treatment, patient education, preventive care, physical intervention, reconditioning, disease promotion, and health promotion. It is important for physical therapy to be licensed in each state so that patients are treated according to state specifications. These professionals must be board certified in the particular field of Physiotherapy in order to practice independently.

 

Physio Adelaide employ other health care professionals such as chiropractors, licensed massage therapists, and certified nurses to support them in their work. Physiotherapists often treat acute injuries, diseases, and other musculoskeletal conditions that can interfere with normal functions. Common conditions treated include sports injuries, neck pain, shoulder pain, and low back pain. Usually, a patient needs to see a physio once a month for a minimum of two hours. After a check-up, the patient would be advised to go home and rest. However, sometimes the condition requires immediate medical assistance.

 

Types of injuries treated by physiotherapists include sprains, strains, contusions, tennis elbow, torn ligaments, herniated discs, and other musculoskeletal disorders. The treatment of these conditions requires detailed evaluation, diagnostic testing, and effective treatment modalities. Before a patient can be treated effectively, it is essential to know what injuries a physio is familiar with handling. In order for a patient to benefit from his or her treatment, a physio needs to have a thorough knowledge of the types of injuries that the person is likely to have. A thorough knowledge of a patient’s injuries helps a professional relate to the patient on an emotional level as well as an academic level.

 

Once a professional has been able to determine which injury a client may have, the professional will begin evaluating the problem through diagnostic methods. These methods include x-rays, computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. Once the diagnosis has been made, the physio will begin evaluating the treatment plan. Most physios specialize in either orthopedics, geriatrics, neurology, sports medicine, cardiovascular rehabilitation, orthopedic surgery, pediatrics, or anesthesiology. A good physio will be able to provide the patient with a complete list of his or her specialties.

 

Some of the most common services offered by physiotherapists include massage, manual therapy, exercise, stretching, cooling/stress reduction, strength training, balance training, and rehabilitation. Massage therapy is often a part of a treatment program for patients who have pain from an injury, degenerative condition, joint issue, or nerve damage. Manual therapy is often used to help reduce pain and improve range of motion of those individuals suffering from muscular or skeletal issues. Stretching is often used to relieve the discomfort associated with conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, and plantar fasciitis. Cooling or heat therapy may also be used to help reduce inflammation.

 

Many physiotherapy Clarence Park practiitoners are now offering health and occupational health services at their own private practices and clinics. However, many physio employment agencies have emerged over the past few years to service health care professionals throughout the country. The services provided by these agencies are typically contingent upon the state that a particular physiotherapist is licensed to practice in. Often times, these agencies will work with healthcare facilities to provide individuals with care that is tailored to their specific needs. For example, an agency that works with chiropractors may work with a physical therapist to develop a rehabilitation plan for a patient who has suffered a back injury. A good agency will also collaborate with occupational health clinics and hospitals to develop a comprehensive rehabilitation protocol for a patient who has undergone surgery.