Therapist Types
Physiotherapist
A Physiotherapist (also known as a Physio) is a type of healthcare practitioner that helps individuals affected by injury illness or disability. They are trained as practitioners in either musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiorespiratory. A physiotherapist works with all ages and are skilled in assessing, diagnosing and treating problems. Often, a Physiotherapist will prescribe clients a treatment plan which commonly involves, exercise manual therapy and education. With the relevant skill and training a Physiotherapist will apply hands on manual techniques such as massage therapy, assisted stretching, manipulation, taping and more. Physiotherapists however are not limited to manual techniques and may use specialised equipment such as ultrasound or shockwave therapy to facilitate and accelerate recovery with clients.
A Physio is trained and skilled to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions from back pain, neck pain, muscle strains, to chronic musculoskeletal conditions to name only a few. A Physiotherapist differs to a Massage Therapist in that service from a Massage Therapist will emphasise hands on treatment approach in the view of relaxation and relief to muscle tensions whereas a Physio will provide greater attention on providing an assessment, diagnosis, treatment and a rehabilitation plan which can often include the hands on techniques that a Massage Therapist may apply. A Physiotherapist differs to a Sports Therapist in that Physios treat a broad range of conditions with the general population whilst a Sports Therapist primarily focuses and treats injuries and dysfunctions arising from sports primarily with sports performers. A Physiotherapist often specialises in one of three common areas:
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy:
This type of Physio is centred on maintaining the health and function of the musculoskeletal system. It emphasises restoring movement, function and strength through treatments and exercise and is focused largely on muscles, bones and joints.
Neurological Physiotherapy:
A type of Physiotherapy that focuses upon rehabilitation for conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord, and/or nerves. This type of Physiotherapy is designed for conditions such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy and others and emphasises recovering movement through the lens of neurologically re-wiring brain to body connections.
Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy:
Another type of Physio which aims to improve heart and lung function through breathing exercises, and manual techniques such as chest percussions or vibrations. More specifically, Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy can help aid exercise tolerance and clear airways and is often used for conditions such as asthma.
As with any approach, if you are not sure on what is the best fit for you, you should discuss your requirements with your Therapist prior to an appointment.
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