What is Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is an allied medical profession that helps in restoring movement and function with the help of physical methods like exercise, massage, heat treatments, and electrical therapy.

Conditions Recommended for Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is recommended as the primary or complementary treatment for various conditions including:

• Chronic pain
• Sports injuries
• Arthritis
• Gait disorders
• Cardio-pulmonary conditions
• Neurological disorders
• Postural problems
• Joint stiffness
• Back and neck pain
• Nerve injuries
• Post-operative problems
• Muscle weakness
• Ligament tears
• Joint pain

Techniques and Exercises Used in Physiotherapy

1. Joint mobilization and manipulation: Manual therapies to diagnose and treat stiffness or joint pain.
2. Exercise (stretching and strengthening): Helps prevent physical problems, cure pain, and aid recovery from injuries.
3. Postural correction: Identifies and corrects bad posture to alleviate pain and prevent future problems.
4. Massage: Reduces pain and increases blood circulation.
5. Electrotherapy modalities: Used for improving range of motion, reducing stiffness, and controlling pain.
6. Ultrasonic therapy: Promotes deep healing of affected tissues and increases blood circulation.
7. Infrared Light: Reduces pain, speeds up healing, and promotes cell regeneration.
8. Short Wave Diathermy: Uses heat to alleviate pain in injured areas.
9. TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation): Releases vibrations to alleviate pain.
10. Traction: Stretches vertebrae to increase flexibility and relax muscles.
11. Laser-Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation: Minimizes nerve sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and controls pain.
12. Paraffin wax bath: Helps relax joints and manage pain.

Benefits of Physiotherapy

• Pain relief
• Better sleep cycle
• Drug-free option
• Increased confidence
• Independence in daily life
• Neurological disorder management
• Cerebral palsy assistance
• Cardiopulmonary condition management
• Avoiding surgery
• Improved mobility
• Stroke recovery
• Diabetes and vascular condition management
• Balance improvement
• Women’s health support

Why Athletes Take Physiotherapy?

Athletes benefit from physiotherapy as it helps improve blood circulation, muscle strength, and flexibility, enhancing performance.

Benefits of Physiotherapy After Surgery

Physiotherapy aids in regaining function, muscle strength, pain reduction, and swelling control post-surgery, contributing to faster recovery.

Manage Heart and Lung Disease

Physiotherapy strengthens breathing muscles and removes fluid from the lungs, improving quality of life for those with heart and lung conditions.

Improve Balance and Women’s Health

Physiotherapy can improve coordination, balance, and aid in women’s health concerns including pregnancy, postpartum care, and pelvic floor issues.

References

1. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.3928/21650799-20140804-01
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0004951407700570

Dr. Garima Singh
Physiotherapist
BPT and DPTR.