PhysiotherapyWhat is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapists work with patients to enhance mobility and quality of life by suing suitable treatments for an injury or condition. Physiotherapists help people to gain as much movement and physical independence as possible so they can resume their normal job or lifestyle. Physiotherapists assess, diagnose and treat people with movement problems. They also deliver patient education and help people avoid injuries and maintain a fit, health body.
How does is work?
Physiotherapy integrates clinical expertise with evidence-based research. Physiotherapists are trained to assess the underlying causes of joint, muscle and nerve disorder, educate patients about managing their condition and advise ways to prevent pain and injury. Often, a personal exercise program is prescribed.
Physiotherapists use a wide range of techniques to relieve pain, restore function and movement, and prevent further problems, including:
- Joint mobilisation and manipulation
- Muscle strengthening, stretching and balance exercises
- Walking and functional retraining
- Electrophysical agents (such as hot packs, ice and ultrasound)
- Soft tissue massage
- Breathing exercises and techniques
As a profession, physiotherapists work within a framework of empowering the individual, carer or the community through education and the promotion of self-management of health and well being.
Conditions commonly treated
Physiotherapists are involved in helping people of all ages, from young infants to the elderly, and commonly treat people suffering back or neck pain, other muscular pain and sports injuries.
Physiotherapy is also applied in the management of a wide variety of other conditions, including: neurological illness such as stroke and Parkinson's disease, movement disorders in children, rehabilitation after major trauma, incontinence, and recovery following orthopaedic and abdominal surgery and child birth.
Physiotherapy also plays a central role in the management and prevention of chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, arthritis and cardiovascular disease.
Physiotherapists service the wards at NHW every day, including weekends and public holidays. The Thomas Hogan Centre (inpatient rehabilitation ward) and Sub Acute Ambulatory Care Service (outpatient facility) are serviced Monday to Friday. Physiotherapists work closely with other health professionals such as Dietitians, Occupational Therapists, Social Workers, Speech Pathologists and medical staff.
Prior to discharge, Physiotherapists will ensure all patients are walking safely with or without an appropriate aid, which can be purchased or loaned if required.
Prior to discharge physiotherapists will ensure all patients are walking safely with or without an appropriate aid, which can be purchased or loaned if required.