A physiotherapists role is to improve movement, reduce pain and stiffness, speed up your recovery and increase your quality of life. Physiotherapists are experts at dealing with muscle and joint problems. They also treat conditions that you may not have associated with physiotherapy before. This blog will outline the more unfamiliar conditions that physiotherapists can treat.
Necks and backs are not just for chiropractors. Our approach is often slightly different, but physiotherapists are experts in assessing and treating backs and we have a great understanding of the latest research into getting the best outcome for each unique back pain presentation.
Cervicogenic headaches- if your headache is associated with neck movements or postures eg. If you get your headache when using the computer. This is very common and easily treated by physiotherapy.
Dizziness/vertigo Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo caused by a problem in the inner ear or cervicogenic dizziness is caused by abnormal signals from your neck. If you have dizziness that is associated with neck movements or postures or if you’re not sure you can see a physiotherapist as we are trained in the assessment and screening of dizziness. If your symptoms are related to the conditions above, they can be treated with great success, if not we can refer on to your doctor or a specialist.
Neurological conditions – Physiotherapists have extensive training in the treatment of many neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease and Stroke. Treatment can address gait retraining, coordination, strength, fitness and upper limb function.
Post hospital fitness or rehab post-op. After discharge from hospital whether it be for illness, medical issues or an operation, patients have often lost strength and condition from being unwell and bedridden. Physiotherapy can be very beneficial for regaining strength and fitness.
Prehab- before surgery or even before seeing the specialist, research has shown with many conditions that require operative repair, physiotherapy before the surgery will lead to better outcomes and quicker recovery. In some cases symptoms can improve enough that surgery is no longer required.
Balance/ falls prevention- we have been trained in screening for falls risk and providing treatment around preventing falls with increasing balance, strength and mobility.
Feet and orthotics Foot problems and pain aren’t just for the podiatrist and we can prescribe orthotics. Although the podiatrist specialises in feet, physiotherapists have a great understanding of the anatomy and biomechanics of the foot. We are very good at treating conditions such as plantar fasciitis and often our understanding of the rest of the leg can have a significant effect on your foot pain.
Jaw pain- we also have training and knowledge regarding temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. This joint is where your jaw joins your skull just in front of your ears.
Acute immobilisation with braces, splints, crutches. We have expertise in immobilisation techniques and have access to braces, splints and crutches. We often fit things like moon boots and knee braces. Any brace, splint or piece of equipment to help you move or position yourself better can be ordered and delivered within days.
Chest - cardiopulmonary treatment. All physiotherapists in Australia have training in the treatment of lung and breathing issues such as COPD. This cardiopulmonary physiotherapy is most often utilised in a hospital setting, however, can be performed by your private practice physiotherapist.
Degenerative joint disease. Often people with a degenerative joint disease such as osteoarthritis and are unaware that treatment via manual therapy (hands on treatment like massage) and exercise can make a huge difference on their symptoms. This can reduce the need for joint replacement surgery and decrease recovery time post surgery.
Incontinence- All physiotherapists have basic training in assessing and treating incontinence. It is very common among all ages and genders, and tends to be ignored, though is often easily treated. We have physios trained in all thing’s women’s health for all life stages. We also treat men, such as pre and post prostate surgery.
Injury prevention/maintenance- Physiotherapists also see patients to prevent injuries. Pre-season is a great time see a physio to get yourself fit for sport once the season starts. If you have any niggles or a history of injury, we can provide you with a program to prevent re-injury or worsening of your condition.
Any pain that isn’t inside your abdomen or chest we can likely treat. So, give us a ring at any time to book an appointment.
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