What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a clinical health science and profession that evaluates, diagnoses and rehabilitates movement disorders and painful conditions, both acute and chronic. It strives to employ evidence-based methods in order to achieve its goal of optimising functional status, i.e. strives to make you be the best you can be. Physiotherapy aims to view the patient in a holistic light, taking into account all aspects of an individual’s lifestyle with the view towards achieving optimal health. In a major paradigmal shift of focus, the recognition of the patient as a biological being, and not simply a biomechanical machine, has further enhanced physiotherapy’s understanding of dealing with pain. Empowering the individual via patient education and advice promotes independence and enhanced treatment effectiveness.
Physiotherapists help people affected by injury, illness or disability via hands-on manual therapy, appropriate movement and exercise, and patient education/advice. They work with people of all ages and vocations. Physiotherapy is proven to be beneficial at all stages of life. Acute injuries, neck and back pain, chronic medical conditions, preparing for childbirth, post partum care, training for a sporting event and respiratory conditions such as asthma, show the wide spectrum of conditions that can be helped by physiotherapy.