Physiotherapy is a vital part of healthcare that helps individuals recover from injuries, manage chronic pain, and improve mobility. With 15% of Canadians receiving physiotherapy services each year, the demand for physiotherapy has grown significantly as the population ages (Canadian Physiotherapy Association, 2023). If you’re considering physiotherapy in Langley, you may wonder what to expect from your sessions. This blog will explain physiotherapy, when you should go and what happens during a session.
What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that focuses on restoring movement and function in individuals affected by injury, illness, or disability. Physiotherapists use a combination of patient education, therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and functional training to help patients regain mobility and reduce pain. Unlike other treatments that may rely on medication, physiotherapy takes a holistic, drug-free approach to healing.
At FraserLife Physio, physiotherapy treatments are tailored to individual needs, incorporating:
- Patient education – Teaching patients about their condition and self-management strategies.
- Therapeutic exercise – Strengthening and stretching programs designed to restore function.
- Hands-on manual therapy – Techniques such as joint mobilization, manipulation, and soft tissue therapy to promote movement and healing.
- Functional training – Guiding patients through movements that improve daily function and prevent future injuries.
How Do I Know If I Should See a Physiotherapist?
Many people wonder if their symptoms warrant a visit to a physiotherapist. Physiotherapy in Langley can benefit individuals with various conditions, including:
- Persistent pain – If you experience ongoing pain in your muscles, joints, or spine that affects daily activities, physiotherapy can help identify the cause and provide relief.
- Injury recovery—Physiotherapy helps speed up recovery and prevent re-injury, whether from sports, work-related incidents, or accidents.
- Reduced mobility – Physiotherapy can improve your range of motion if you find it difficult to move freely due to stiffness, weakness, or balance issues.
- Post-surgical rehabilitation – Physiotherapy is often recommended after surgeries, such as joint replacements or ligament repairs, to help restore strength and function.
- Chronic conditions – Conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and neurological disorders (e.g., stroke recovery) can be managed effectively with physiotherapy.
What Will Happen in My Physiotherapy Session?
Your first physiotherapy session will focus on a thorough assessment to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Here is what you can expect:
1. Initial Assessment
The physiotherapist will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and activity levels. They will ask questions about how your pain or condition affects your daily life.
2. Physical Examination
The physical examination may include an assessment of your posture and gait, where the physiotherapist observes how you stand, walk, and move to identify any irregularities. They may also conduct range of motion tests to evaluate the flexibility of your joints, ensuring they move as they should without restriction or discomfort. Strength testing is another key component, measuring muscle function and endurance to detect any weaknesses contributing to pain or mobility issues. Additionally, balance and coordination tests may be performed to assess stability and identify any concerns that could increase the risk of falls or movement difficulties.
3. Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
Based on the assessment findings, your physiotherapist will explain your condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include hands-on therapy, guided exercises, and lifestyle modifications.
4. Hands-On Therapy and Exercises
During treatment, your physiotherapist may use a variety of techniques, including:
- Manual therapy – Hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility and relieve muscle tension.
- Therapeutic exercises – Stretching and strengthening routines to enhance mobility and prevent further injuries.
- Electrical stimulation and ultrasound therapy – Used in some cases to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Education on posture and movement – Teaching you how to move properly to avoid strain and injury.
5. Home Exercise Program
To maximize results, you will likely receive exercises to perform at home. These exercises are essential for maintaining progress between sessions. Research shows that engaging in a home exercise program alongside physiotherapy can significantly improve recovery outcomes (Dubé et al., 2024).
How Often Should I Go to Physiotherapy?
The frequency of physiotherapy sessions depends on the severity of your condition, treatment goals, and how well you respond to therapy.
- Acute injuries or post-surgical recovery – Typically, 2-3 sessions per week in the early stages.
- Chronic pain management – Often 1-2 sessions per week, with gradual spacing as symptoms improve.
- Preventative care or maintenance – May require visits once a month or as needed.
Set Up Your Appointment for Physiotherapy in Langley at FraserLife Physio
Physiotherapy is a proven, non-invasive treatment that can help you recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve overall movement. Whether you are dealing with a new injury or a chronic condition or want to prevent future issues, our experienced team at FraserLife Physio is here to help.
Book your physiotherapy in Langley today and take the first step toward improved mobility and lasting relief.
References
Canadian Physiotherapy Association. (2023). Economic Impact of Physiotherapy in Canada. Retrieved from https://physiotherapy.ca/app/uploads/2024/04/Deloitte-report_EN.pdf
Dubé, M.-O., Dillon, S., Gallagher, K., Ryan, J., & McCreesh, K. (2024). One and Done? The Effectiveness of a Single Session of Physiotherapy Compared With Multiple Sessions to Reduce Pain and Improve Function and Quality of Life in Patients With a Musculoskeletal Disorder: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analyses. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 105(6), 1171-1180. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S000399932300549X
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