If an aching back, stiff neck or wonky knee is stopping you from doing the things you love a visit to a physiotherapist might help.
Physiotherapy can be used to assess and treat movement and musculoskeletal problems including:
- Joint, muscle and nerve pain
- Migraine and headaches
- Repetitive strain injury
- Whiplash
- Arthritis
- Injury from sports or accidents
- Respiratory conditions
Physiotherapy can be used to treat babies, pregnant women, athletes and the elderly.
Physiotherapists Diagnose
You don’t need a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist. At your first appointment the physiotherapist (or ‘physio’) will ask about your medical history, your work environment and lifestyle. He/She may ask you to perform some very simply movements such as bending forward, balancing on one leg or turning your head. The physio will also assess your range of movement by gently moving your legs, arms, spine or hips.
Physiotherapy Looks for the Cause
A physiotherapist will look for the cause of your condition and set out a treatment plan that they believe will relieve your symptoms and address the cause of your problem. They will discuss possible treatment options with you, which may include:
- Mobilisation
- Manipulation
- Functional exercise
- Postural assessment and correction
- Massage
- Electrotherapy such as ultrasound, TENS, interferential and laser
- Heat
- Dry needling
- Tapping
A phsiotherapist will never manipulate your head or spine unless they believe it will benefit you. They will discuss it with your beforehand.
Expect Homework From Your Physio
You can expect to get some homework from your physio. They may suggest gentle exercises and lifestyle changes that will help ease your condition and bring long-term relief.
Physiotherapy Partnership
Some people see and feel benefits after only one physiotherapy consultation but most people need four or more to begin to notice the benefits. You and your physiotherapist will work together to address your concerns. If necessary, your physio will also work closely with other health care practitioners to offer you the best possible outcome.
Physiotherapy Costs
Your first appointment may take up to one hour and cost anything from $65 to $120. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter (30-45 minutes) and cost from $55-$95. If you have private health insurance you may be eligible for a rebate.
Phyisotherapists are trained to assess, diagnose and help people with all sorts of movement problems. They work in partnership with you and other health care providers to ease your symptoms and help you maintain independence and a health body.
Find a physiotherapist in your local area.
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