Physiotherapy offers an incredibly valuable resource for people of all ages and walks of life around the world. From short-term injuries to long-term conditions, the practice is able to guide the patient toward regaining mobility, flexibility, and strength, and working to mitigate any pain or discomfort they are feeling.
Despite the popularity of physiotherapy, some people still hesitate due to some misconceptions. Here are among the most common things people get wrong about the process, and the truth behind them.
After reading them, you can give a try.
Physiotherapy is Just a Massage
Although massage can be part of the treatment session, it’s not the only component. Physiotherapists diagnose the problem first by determining the cause of pain. There will be an appropriate plan of action based on the diagnosis, and this may or may not include massage. If it does, it is typically used as a supplement to a more focussed treatment plan.
Physiotherapists Teach Everyone the Same Exercises
Everyone’s bodies are different, and addressing the innumerable injuries, conditions and illnesses that can lead patients to see a physiotherapist requires with a uniform list of exercises would only help a small sample, and could risk further injury and discomfort.
The truth is that these exercises came from the analysis of your condition. For instance, if you had a recent injury, your physiotherapist would examine you carefully and ascertain the best movements and exercises to help you ease pain, and promote a fast and full recovery.
Physiotherapists have intensive training related to the rehabilitation and recovery of patients, and they continue to monitor these conditions to ensure a full recovery.
Physiotherapists are Only Available After You See a Doctor
It’s not true that physiotherapists can only see you after a doctor’s referral. While doctors often recommend physiotherapy to patients, the wait-time can be very long and prevent you from getting the help your body needs.
There are plenty of practices offering physiotherapy in Oxford, Bristol, Birmingham and further afield who can offer you an appointment without any referral from your GP.
Physiotherapists Can’t Treat Spine Problems
You might think of physiotherapy as effective only for minor pains, and that spinal issues are beyond its scope. However, physiotherapists possess a full and comprehensive of the human body, and many conditions from which we commonly suffer are related to the spine itself.
Dealing with spine issues using physiotherapy is safe, and won’t lead to unwanted side effects if done correctly.
Physiotherapy could cause extreme pain
The goal of physiotherapy is the reduction of pain and to make patients feel comfortable. Pain might be necessary to recover, but it’s not as bad as you might think. You might feel a bit sore after each session, but it won’t last long. Within 48-72 hours, you can expect the pain to go away.
Now that you understand what physiotherapy entails, you will feel more confident to do it. If you’re still uncertain, you can contact a physiotherapist. You might also wish to talk to your physician. You will then realise that physiotherapy is crucial to your recovery.
Many people have already felt better after a few sessions with a physiotherapist. Whether you have sustained a sports injury, or feel that your mobility has begun to suffer with age, physiotherapy offers an invaluable tool in promoting long-term healing and comfort.