Physiotherapy is a form of health care that uses physical approaches (ie. stretching, strengthening, hands-on techniques, taping, etc.), education, and modalities (i.e. Acupuncture, heat, ultrasound, etc.) to promote, maintain and restore physical, psychological and social well-being, taking account all variations in health status.
Physiotherapists use many tools both in the assessment and treatment of injured individuals. The skill of a physiotherapist lies in his/her ability to assess or examine an individual's physical limitations, plan a suitable course of action to return this individual to his/her highest level of function, and to implement that plan using a variety of techniques that he/she has been specifically trained to provide.
This could involve a combination of activities including: hands-on treatment, specific exercise instruction to address muscle imbalances and joint problems, and a wide variety of other techniques. Additionally, education to the client is always provided in order to assist the individual in understanding their condition and preventing it from re-occurring.
Physiotherapists encourage on-going preventative self-help techniques and provide patients with helpful information, tips and techniques to use in their home and work environment in order to decrease the likelihood of returning to the physiotherapy clinic.
The physiotherapist begins an assessment with a series of questions pertaining to the reason you made the visit. This could include questions regarding the onset and severity of symptoms and the possible causes of the condition. Additionally, a thorough screening of medical history relevant to this condition is conducted before the physical examination takes place.
During the physical assessment, observation of posture, movement and any abnormalities is made along with palpation (feeling of) of possible structures involved. Often, reflexes, sensation and strength are also tested as well as balance occasionally.
The related joints, muscles, ligaments and nerves are tested and an overall assessment (conclusion) of the problem is made. Based on this, a plan of treatment is created and the patient is educated regarding his/her condition. Frequency of treatment will be discussed and advice regarding activities will be provided. Throughout a patient's treatment, an on-going re-assessment of symptoms and movement will be made; this will enable the physiotherapist to engage in discharge planning appropriately.
Physiotherapist supervised exercise programs help patients to increase range of motion, strength, balance, and help to manage diabetes, overweight, and high blood pressure.
(NOTE: Please note that there are many other conditions not necessarily listed which can benefit from our care. Please contact the clinic if you require any further information.)
