Unraveling the Truth About Physiotherapy
Integrative Physio was created to fulfil a dream of complete patient management with an understanding that our systems are connected. In order to optimise performance, as an athlete, a professional or merely as a human, these systems need to be working in harmony. Whether it’s recovery, maintenance, or simply enhancing your physical wellbeing, IP is all about understanding and meeting your unique wellness needs.
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This article is penned by our friends at IP which aims to debunk misconceptions and shed light on the true nature and benefits of physiotherapy.
Misconception #1: Physiotherapy Is Only For Treating Sports Injuries
A common misconception that stops people from seeing a physiotherapist – while it’s true that physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in sports medicine, its scope is far more expansive, catering to a diverse range of individuals and conditions.
Physiotherapy serves as a lifeline for many – from young professionals grappling with repetitive strain injuries due to long hours at the computer, to older individuals managing age-related conditions such as osteoarthritis, physiotherapy provides tailored solutions to enhance mobility, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life (1).
Moreover, physiotherapy is also about prevention. By identifying and addressing potential risk factors, physiotherapists can help individuals avoid injuries and chronic conditions, promoting overall health and wellness. Using an integrative approach, which emphasises a holistic view of health, considering not just the physical, but the psychological and social aspects of well-being as well. This ensures that each individual receives comprehensive care that addresses their unique needs and goals.
Misconception #2: Physiotherapy Is Just Exercise
Another common misunderstanding is equating physiotherapy with mere exercise.
While exercise is a fundamental component of physiotherapy, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Physiotherapy encompasses a wide range of techniques and modalities, all designed to improve mobility, function, and overall well-being (2).
Physiotherapists employ manual therapy, electrotherapy, hydrotherapy, and even psychological strategies, alongside exercise, to provide holistic care. They also play a pivotal role in educating patients about their conditions, empowering them to actively participate in their recovery process. This shared decision-making approach ensures that the treatment plan aligns with the patient’s goals and lifestyle, fostering better outcomes.
Misconception #3: "If Surgery Can Fix My Condition, I Don’t Need Physiotherapy."
The last misconception to be addressed is the belief that surgery is a one-stop solution for all physical ailments. While surgical interventions can be crucial in treating certain conditions, they are often just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in the recovery process following surgery (3). It aids in restoring function, enhancing mobility, and minimising the risk of post-surgical complications by combining various therapeutic techniques, including manual therapy, exercise prescription, and patient education, to ensure a well-rounded recovery.
Embracing Physiotherapy
By debunking the prevalent misconceptions surrounding physiotherapy, we uncover a profession that is not confined to post-injury recovery but is a beacon of preventive care, wellness, and holistic health. Physiotherapy offers personalised treatments tailored to the unique needs and goals of each patient, ranging from managing chronic conditions to enhancing athletic performance. As we shed light on the true nature and benefits of physiotherapy, it becomes clear that this discipline is integral to achieving and maintaining optimal health. Let us embrace physiotherapy with an informed perspective and recognise its vital role in fostering a healthier, more active society.
References:
1. Svraka E, Pecar M, Jaganjac A, Hadziomerovic AM, Kaljic E, Kovacevic A. Physical Therapy in Elderly Suffering from Degenerative Diseases. Mater Sociomed. 2017 Dec;29(4):272-275. doi: 10.5455/msm.2017.29.272-275. PMID: 29284998; PMCID: PMC5723174.
2. Jette DU, Hunter SJ, Burkett L, Langham B, Logerstedt DS, Piuzzi NS, Poirier NM, Radach LJL, Ritter JE, Scalzitti DA, Stevens-Lapsley JE, Tompkins J, Zeni J Jr; American Physical Therapy Association. Physical Therapist Management of Total Knee Arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020 Aug 31;100(9):1603-1631. doi: 10.1093/ptj/pzaa099. PMID: 32542403; PMCID: PMC7462050.
3. Bastemeijer CM, van Ewijk JP, Hazelzet JA, Voogt LP. Patient values in physiotherapy practice, a qualitative study. Physiother Res Int. 2021 Jan;26(1):e1877. doi: 10.1002/pri.1877. Epub 2020 Sep 11. PMID: 32918372; PMCID: PMC7900966.