Types of physiotherapy treatments
Physiotherapy employs a variety of methods and approaches to improve the physical well-being of people who are suffering from a movement disorder, injury, or disease. After assessing your condition, the physiotherapist can create a treatment plan that includes one or more of the following therapies.
Massage & manipulation:
This involves manipulating the soft tissues of the body using your hands. It is one of the most efficient forms of physiotherapy, and it is suitable for all ages. It can be used to:
- Improving blood flow around the body
- Effective drainage of fluids from body parts
- Enhancing movement of different parts
- Helping the body relax and relieve pain
This method is very effective in treating pain, aches, and movement disorders in the neck and shoulder areas; as well as headaches and stress-related problems.
Movement & exercises:
A comprehensive exercise program is an important part of physiotherapy. It is often recommended that patients follow it while they are recovering from injuries or trying to improve their movement speed and balance. To help you heal safely, the treatment plan will include specific exercises based on your diagnosis.
These exercises are designed to strengthen your muscles and joints, improve control, increase range of motion, and prevent future or recurring injuries. A combination of gentle activities such as swimming and walking may be beneficial to someone recovering from an injury that could have impaired their mobility. Exercises that target the affected area are also recommended for anyone who has had a stroke, an attack or is facing paralysis.
Energy-based therapy:
It is also known as electrotherapy. This uses various energies, such as currents and impulses, to stimulate the nervous system. The body can heal itself by reducing stress and pain through the use of electric impulses.
These energy-based therapies are painless and may cause a tingling sensation. They come in the following types:
Ultrasound :
High-frequency sound waves are used to treat deep tissue injuries. They stimulate blood circulation and increase cell activity. It is believed to reduce muscle spasms, pain, and speed up healing.
Laser Therapy :
This therapy reduces pain and muscle spasms. Although it is believed to be the most effective for tendon conditions, studies have shown it to not be as efficient as other energy-based therapies.
Shortwave Diathermy :
The electromagnetic field creates heat in your body’s tissues. This can be used to reduce inflammation, strengthen tissues, and reduce pain.
Hydrotherapy:
This is a type of therapy that takes place in water. To help relax muscles and ease pain, the water temperature is typically kept between warm and hot. Hydrotherapy baths are designed to push against the body’s weight while you are floating, or doing the exercises. It stimulates blood flow and helps to reduce pain.
Pediatric physiotherapy
This is a branch of physiotherapy Sunshine Coast that helps children and young adults with developmental and physical issues. One of the many conditions that can cause movement difficulties in children is:
- Cerebral Palsy
- Development Delay
- Developmental Coordination Disorder
- Neuromuscular Conditions
- Acquired Brain Injury
- Down’s syndrome
After determining the cause of the problem and an assessment of its long-term effects, a customized plan is created and implemented into daily life. The program encourages parents to be involved and help their child maximize their growth, reach their full potential, and transition smoothly into adulthood.
Neurological Physical Therapy:
Physical exercises can be very beneficial for those with spinal cord conditions, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s’, or other brain injuries. You can make a significant difference in your life by performing regular therapeutic exercises.
Cardiovascular physical Therapy:
Cardiopulmonary physical therapy is a treatment that can be used to treat problems in the heart and circulation. It also helps build strength and endurance.
How fast does physiotherapy work?
Each patient heals at their own pace and each condition is unique. The goal is to continue attending physiotherapy sessions until they reach their goals or until the physiotherapist determines that it is time to stop and reevaluate the progress. It should usually take between 6-8 weeks for tissues and muscles to heal. Therefore, physiotherapy must be sustained for that amount of time. Sometimes your condition will improve quickly.
You may notice an improvement in pain management, range of motion, and strength after just a few sessions. You may need to continue attending 2-3 sessions before being discharged. Or, you might be asked to do the exercises at home. Your physiotherapist may ask you to continue the therapy until you reach satisfactory progress, depending on the severity of your condition.
