Physiotherapy: In a nutshell

In this series “In a nutshell- Layman’s Explanation”, we will be looking at various modalities of health practitioners such as chiropractors or physical therapists and what they do. Why? I’ve been to all of them and if you’re starting to crack like me, at some point you might find yourself wondering, ‘Who do I go to? Why can’t I just do Pilates and get a massage?’

So today, let’s look at physiotherapists.

What do physiotherapists do?

Physiotherapists focus on treating a wide variety of physical conditions that affect movement and function. Like chiropractors and osteopaths, their goal is to treat dysfunction without pain relief as a first basis.

Physiotherapists aim to improve your physical function through improved movement patterns often by recommending finite exercises. Some physios will use targeted massage or dry needling if they feel it’s called for.

Side note

When I was training in Pilates, my trainers referred to Pilates as Physiotherapists without the paperwork. The difference is there are no group physio appointments. Physio appointments are all one-on-one. Although, there are many physios now who are Pilates instructors with a background in physiotherapy. No shade to myself or other Pilates instructors out there, but if you are someone who struggles with repeat injuries and little body understanding, I would recommend one of these first for a private session. They can be expensive so if that’s out of your price range, your next port of call would be a Pilates instructor with a dance background or simply a physio (if your insurance provider covers this).

What qualifies them?

In Australia, physiotherapists complete a Bachelor of Physiotherapy. If they’ve already done a degree in a related field such as science or sports, they can qualify through a Masters of Physiotherapy. They then need to register with the Board of Physiotherapists in Australia and complete 20 hours of professional development annually.

When do I need to consider seeing a physiotherapist?

-After an injury or fall that hasn’t recovered after a week or more

-If a GP recommends you

- Muscle stiffness for more than a few weeks with or without reason to have such

- If your Pilates instructor recommends you.

How to combat any pain after?

Most physios I have seen have often used muscle relief cream on my areas of pain to help it after recommending certain exercises. So often you will feel relief after and not need pain medication. However, if you do feel pain, it is always a good idea to take your usual pain medication and remember to do the exercises recommended to you within a day or two of seeing your physio.

Is one appointment enough?

Usually, no. Physios are often seen for something specific so a series of 5 appointments over a few months might be necessary. If it’s a more severe issue, you may have 10 appointments or appointments closer together may be recommended.

What should I expect from a first appointment?

An assessment. Physiotherapists may want to order x-rays or other scans. In Australia, they have the authority to directly do this, so you won't need to then go back to your GP. They will ask you questions about your issue as well as general health. They may ask you to do a series of movements so that they can assess your issue more closely. From there they will recommend certain exercises or even soft tissue massage for you to do at home and may do some on your right then and there.

In conclusion Physiotherapists are a great for specific injuries or suspected movement issues that may be in your life. If you have a recent ongoing issue, go see one asap!