Physiotherapists are one of Australia's most trusted and utilised medical services. Whether you're seeing a physiotherapist in a hospital or a private clinic, they will provide a thorough assessment, treatment and essential recommendations regarding your physical health. The Australian Physiotherapy Association best summarises the profession in the quote below.
"Physiotherapists help you get the most out of life. They help you recover from injury, reduce pain and stiffness, increase mobility and prevent further injury.“ Australian Physiotherapy Association
As the leading way to find the "best physio near me", we will answer your frequently asked questions about
Physiotherapy is a branch of medicine which focuses explicitly on conservatively managing and rehabilitating your physical conditions. There are three streams of physiotherapy, including cardiorespiratory, neurological and musculoskeletal. Physiotherapists will regularly work with other health professionals, such as doctors, surgeons, and podiatrists as part of a collaborative effort.
Under most circumstances, people will see a musculoskeletal physiotherapist for their physical conditions. Examples of specific conditions which these physiotherapists look after include:
Lower back pain
Sciatica
Neck pain
Osteoarthritis
Post-surgical rehabilitation
Joint pain
Strains and sprains
Fracture management
Women's health and pregnancy
Sports injuries (e.g. ACL tear, ankle sprains)
Whiplash
Tendinopathy (e.g. tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis)
And many more.
Physiotherapists help you achieve the outcomes and goals that you desire. Whether it's being able to run or just being pain-free whilst sitting, they will find a way to help you.
During a consultation, your physiotherapist will perform a structured assessment, which involves a verbal and physical examination. Following this, a combination of physiotherapy treatment will be administered, including:
Manual therapy (e.g. soft tissue massage, mobilisations, spinal manipulations)
Exercise, stretching and rehabilitation
Clinical pilates
Hydrotherapy
Educating about assistive walking aids (e.g. crutches, camboots, walking frame)
Dry needling and acupuncture
Electrotherapy (e.g. ultrasound, interferential, TENS)
Lifestyle recommendations (e.g. monitoring your physical activity, pain relief medication, imposing restrictions)
Most physiotherapists will use multiple treatments to guide you through your recovery. For a progressive and long-lasting improvement, your physiotherapist will review over a series of consultations. Once you have accomplished your goals, you will be discharged.
Yes you can!
Another common misconception and frequently asked question is whether a doctor's referral is required. Like dentists or a GP, physiotherapists are classified as a primary health practitioner and will not require a referral.
If you need a physiotherapist, you can simply book online, or call the physiotherapy clinic directly and make a booking.
Physiotherapists vs Chiropractors is a question we hear all too often in practice. Although chiropractors and physiotherapists often see a similar demographic of patients, both professions treat their patients in both subtle and completely different ways.
For example, most physiotherapists will tend to discharge you after achieving your goals, whilst chiropractors may opt for ongoing maintenance reviews.
Now that you're ready to see a physiotherapist, you might be wondering "Who's the best physiotherapist?" Fortunately, BookPhysio.com has partnered up with a number of hand-selected clinics in your local area. All you need to do is click on the link below to find the perfect physiotherapist for you.
