The Role Of A Physiotherapist
A physiotherapist (also known as a “physio” or “physiotherapy specialist”) is a highly educated healthcare professional who treats and prevents pain, injury, disability and impairment. They treat individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences so as to enhance their health and achieve their goals through evidence-based treatment.
What Conditions Do Physiotherapists Treat?
Physiotherapists emphasize prevention and rehabilitation. Treatment may be necessary for injuries, diseases or disabilities. The following are some examples:
- Neck and back pain caused by muscle and skeletal problems
- Bone, joint, muscle, and ligament problems such as arthritis and the effects of amputation
- Asthma and other lung diseases
- Incapacity as a result of heart disease
- Pelvic problems such as bladder and bowel complications associated with childbirth
- Loss of mobility as a result of brain or spinal cord trauma – or as a result of diseases such as Parkinson’s or Multiple Sclerosis
- Fatigue, pain, swelling, stiffness, and muscle weakness due to cancer treatment or palliative care
Benefits Of Seeing A Physiotherapist
There are various reasons why you might seek treatment from a physiotherapist. Often, your doctor will refer you for treatment of a specific injury or condition. At other times, you can go to physical therapy on your own.
The following are some of the most common reasons why people seek the services of a physiotherapist:
- Illness: Following a long illness or during/after an illness which impaired mobility, balance or motor skills.
- Chronic health conditions: Diabetes, for example, can impact mobility and balance.
- Immediately following surgery: Getting up and moving after surgery is critical for healing. If a body part, such as a hand, foot or back, has been injured, physiotherapy can assist the patient in regaining use (or compensating).
- Injury: Physiotherapy is frequently used to treat injuries which cause the patient to be in a lot of pain or unable to move.
- Aging: Changes in the body occur as people age, affecting movement and function. Physiotherapy can assist in regaining some of this function or teaching how to cope with the loss.
- Major crisis: A heart attack, stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other health crisis can make it difficult to function normally. Patients can regain some or all of their function with the help of physiotherapy.
- Improved fitness: Athletes and even patients who want to improve their fitness performance seek physiotherapy to learn strategies for maximizing the body’s performance potential.
- General well-being: Patients can begin physiotherapy to counteract the effects of aging and other conditions and learn skills for staying mobile, healthy and flexible.
What To Expect During Your Appointment
When you schedule an appointment with a physiotherapist, you will most likely be instructed to wear loose, comfortable clothing and supportive shoes (e.g. athletic shoes). This is because you will almost certainly engage in physical activity. The physiotherapist will check your records and obtain a comprehensive medical history during the initial session, including any X-rays or other tests you may have had. They’ll inquire about not only your medical history, but also lifestyle, and the disease or injury for which you seek treatment. Your responses must be totally honest.
You will almost certainly be asked to walk, bend, and perform other simple exercises to determine your physical skills and limitations. They will next discuss with you a personalized physical therapy program. During follow-up appointments, you’ll typically be requested to perform specific exercises or activities. The activities you participate in during your physiotherapy session are part of a customized program designed to assist in reaching your wellness and recovery goals.
In Langley and Cloverdale, your best choice for physiotherapy is Fraser Life. Visit us online or call us at (778) 278-4755 today.
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