Treatment Physiotherapy & Active Rehab

Physiotherapy is a form of healthcare that aims to improve movement and function, reduce pain and discomfort, and prevent or manage acute or chronic conditions. It can help improve mobility, strength, flexibility, and overall physical function. Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who are trained to evaluate and treat a wide range of conditions that affect the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.

Who can benefit from physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy can benefit people of all ages and physical abilities. It can be helpful for individuals who are experiencing pain, reduced mobility, or difficulty with daily activities due to a variety of conditions, including:

  • Musculoskeletal conditions (such as back pain, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia)
  • Neurological conditions (such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease)
  • Cardiovascular and respiratory conditions (such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD))
  • Sports injuries
  • Work-related injuries
  • Overuse injuries such as carpel tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation
  • Pregnancy-related musculoskeletal conditions

Physiotherapy can also be beneficial for people who want to maintain or improve their overall physical function, flexibility, and strength, as well as those who want to prevent injuries or manage chronic conditions.

What are the groups that physiotherapists treat?

Physiotherapists work with people of all ages, including:

  • Infants and children: Physical therapists can help children with developmental delays, cerebral palsy, and other conditions that affect their movement and development. They can also help children who have suffered injuries or who have chronic pain conditions.
  • Adolescents and young adults: Physical therapists can help adolescents and young adults who have suffered sports injuries or other injuries, as well as those who have chronic pain conditions. They can also help people in this age group who are dealing with the physical changes and challenges of growing up.
  • Adults: Physical therapists can help adults who have suffered injuries, such as sprains and strains, as well as those who have chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. They can also help people who are recovering from surgeries or who are dealing with the effects of aging.
  • Seniors: Physical therapists can help seniors who have mobility issues, chronic pain conditions, or other age-related health problems. They can also help seniors who are recovering from surgeries or who are at risk of falling.

Overall, physical therapists are skilled at working with people of all ages and can help them improve their mobility, reduce pain, and live more active and healthy lives.

What are common physiotherapy treatments?

Here are some common techniques that physical therapists use in treatment:

  • Exercise: Physical therapists use a variety of exercises, including stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises, to help people improve their range of motion, strength, and stability.
  • Hands-on therapy: Physical therapists may use techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and spinal manipulation to help reduce pain and improve mobility.
  • Assistive devices: Physical therapists may recommend the use of assistive devices such as crutches, canes, and braces to help people move more easily and safely.
  • Education: Physical therapists often provide education and guidance on how to properly care for injuries, manage chronic conditions, and prevent future problems.
  • Dry Needling (IMS/Acupuncture): Physical therapists use dry needling to stimulate the body’s natural healing process and to release tension in the muscles. It may also help to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.

Overall, the specific techniques and treatments used in physical therapy will depend on the individual's specific needs and goals. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain, neurological conditions, and more.

What is dry needling (IMS) and how can it help?

Intramuscular stimulation (IMS) is a type of treatment used by physiotherapists to help reduce pain and improve function in patients with muscle and nerve related pain conditions. It can help with musculoskeletal injuries and other conditions that affect movement and cause pain. It involves the insertion of very thin needles into specific muscles to stimulate the muscles and improve blood flow. The needle is inserted into areas of the body known as trigger points, which are areas of tightness or knots in the muscle that can cause pain and other symptoms. IMS is based on the principles of western acupuncture and is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including neck and back pain, headaches, sciatica, and carpal tunnel syndrome. It is thought to work by stimulating the muscles and nerves to improve blood flow and reduce muscle spasms, which can help to reduce pain and improve function.

IMS is typically used in conjunction with other physiotherapy treatment techniques, such as exercise and manual therapy, to help improve overall function and reduce pain. It is generally considered safe and effective when administered by a trained physiotherapist. If you are experiencing pain and are interested in using IMS as a treatment option, it is important to speak with our physiotherapist who is trained in this technique to determine if it is appropriate for you.

Can someone perform physiotherapy treatments at home?

There are several ways to perform physiotherapy treatments at home, depending on the specific condition being treated and the recommendations of a physiotherapist. Some examples of at-home physiotherapy treatments include:

  • Stretching exercises: These can help improve flexibility and range of motion.
  • Strengthening exercises: These can help improve muscle strength and function.
  • Balance and coordination exercises: These can help improve balance and coordination.
  • Cardiovascular exercises: These can help improve cardiovascular fitness and endurance.
  • Massage: Self-massage or using a massage tool can help reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow.
  • Posture correction: Paying attention to posture during daily activities and using good body mechanics can help reduce strain on the body.

It is important to consult with a physiotherapist or healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or treatment program, as certain exercises or treatments may not be appropriate for certain conditions. It is also important to follow any specific instructions and guidelines provided by a physiotherapist to ensure that treatments are performed effectively and tailored to your specific condition.