Physiotherapy involves the treatment of injury, and other disorders through physical methods such as exercise, massage, and manipulation. A physiotherapist treats patients of all ages. Physiotherapists treat people suffering from physical problems arising from injury, disease, illness, and aging. A physiotherapist uses a variety of treatments to alleviate pain and restore function. In the case of permanent injury or disease, they aim to reduce the effects of any dysfunction. They can work in a variety of environments including hospitals, health centers, sports clubs, rehabilitation centers, schools, and fitness centers.
The Role of the Physiotherapist
The role of a physiotherapist is immensely varied. They treat children with cerebral palsy, premature babies, pregnant women, the elderly, and patients recuperating from heart disease, strokes, or major surgery. They also treat athletes and organize rehabilitation programs. They often have to diagnose problems and implement treatment plans. They may also re-train patients to walk, or help others to use crutches, walking frames, or wheelchairs. They may also plan and implement community fitness programs. Physiotherapists also spend time educating patients, their families, and the community to prevent injuries and help people adopt healthier lifestyles. All of these services are provided at centers around the world including the Private Physio and Sport Injury Clinic, Bangkok.
Duties of a Physiotherapist
Physiotherapists use a range of techniques to treat patients affected by injuries resulting from illness, disability, or aging. During their work, physiotherapists will collect and analyze data and use this to diagnose and treat various physical problems and develop treatment programs. They can conduct therapeutic physical exercise sessions. They use specialist techniques to treat a range of injuries and ailments. They often liaise with other health professionals and keep up to date with the latest industry developments. They also try to educate and train patients and carers about exercise and movement. And finally, they have to write reports and case notes.
Types of Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment for many conditions and help lessen the recovery time after surgery. Physiotherapists can specialize in different areas, including sports medicine, or pediatrics, and utilize different methods of treatment. Orthopedic physiotherapy is used to treat sprains, back pain, arthritis, posture problems, sports injuries, and reduced mobility. It is also used to aid rehabilitation after surgery. Neurological physiotherapy is used to treat strokes, spinal cord injuries, acquired brain injuries, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. Cardiothoracic physiotherapy is used to treat asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other cardio-respiratory disorders.
Types of Physiotherapeutic Treatment
A physiotherapist will tailor treatment to suit the specific requirements of individual patients. They can choose from a range of therapies. For example, they may use manual therapies such as joint manipulation and mobilization, manual resistance training, and stretching. They also use exercise programs including muscle strengthening, posture re-training, cardiovascular stretching, and training. They can even use electrotherapy techniques like laser therapy, diathermy, and ultrasound. There are often underlying factors that lead to injury. So, a physiotherapist will treat the injury but also address the underlying factors to reduce the risk of repeated injuries.
