Conditions Improved and Fixed Through Physiotherapy

• Back pain: Physiotherapy techniques for back pain may include manual therapy, where the therapist uses their hands to manipulate and massage the back to relieve pain and stiffness, as well as exercises that target core strength, flexibility, and posture. Ergonomic advice may be given to prevent future back pain, such as the correct ways to lift heavy items and how to maintain good posture during daily activities.
• Arthritis: Physiotherapy for arthritis may focus on exercises that improve joint flexibility and muscle strength, which can reduce pain and help manage symptoms. Heat and cold therapies, hydrotherapy, and even acupuncture may also be used.
• Sports injuries: After an injury, a physiotherapist will guide an individual through a range of exercises designed to restore function, strength, and mobility. The goal is to return to sports safely and to prevent future injuries by teaching proper body mechanics.
• Post-operative rehabilitation: Physiotherapy can help speed recovery after surgery, improving strength, mobility, and reducing pain and swelling. This could involve exercises to regain strength and range of motion, as well as techniques to manage pain and swelling.
• Stroke: Stroke often results in loss of function in parts of the body. Physiotherapists use techniques to stimulate these parts and retrain the body to perform functions lost due to stroke. They also work on improving balance and coordination and helping stroke survivors to regain as much independence as possible.
• Parkinson’s disease: Parkinson’s disease causes issues with movement and balance. Physiotherapy can help manage these symptoms through targeted exercises and strategies that improve mobility, strength, and coordination.
• Multiple sclerosis: Physiotherapy helps manage symptoms of multiple sclerosis, such as muscle weakness and coordination problems. This includes exercises to improve strength, balance, and coordination, as well as techniques to manage fatigue and mobility difficulties.
• Cerebral palsy: Physiotherapy is key in improving motor skills, strength, and balance in individuals with cerebral palsy. This might involve exercises to improve muscle strength, flexibility, and control, and strategies to manage daily activities.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Physiotherapy for COPD involves exercises designed to improve cardiovascular fitness and strength, enhancing lung function and overall quality of life. Breathing exercises may also be taught to help manage symptoms.
• Lymphedema: Physiotherapy, particularly manual lymphatic drainage, can help manage the swelling associated with lymphedema. This involves gentle, rhythmical movements of the skin to stimulate the lymph flow and direct it towards areas of the body where the lymphatic system is functioning normally.
• Fractures: Following a fracture, a physiotherapist can guide an individual through exercises that restore movement, strength, and function to the affected area. This may include exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and balance, and techniques to manage pain and swelling.
• Tendonitis: Physiotherapy for tendonitis involves pain management techniques, such as icing and rest, along with strengthening exercises to prevent further injury.
• Sprains and strains: After a sprain or strain, physiotherapy can help restore function and strength. This might involve exercises to improve strength and flexibility, and advice on how to avoid future injuries.
• Balance disorders: Balance disorders can be managed with physiotherapy through balance training exercises, strengthening exercises, and mobility exercises. These can improve balance, coordination, and reduce the risk of falls.
• Postural problems: For postural problems, a physiotherapist can design an exercise program that strengthens the muscles that support good posture. They can also provide advice on how to improve posture in everyday activities.
• Pelvic floor dysfunction: In continuation, biofeedback can be used to improve awareness of the muscles, and advice on lifestyle changes, such as diet, that can help manage symptoms. In some cases, manual therapy might be used to relax and lengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor.
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Physiotherapy for TMJ disorders might involve exercises to strengthen and stretch the jaw muscles, manual therapy to improve jaw movement, and relaxation techniques to reduce jaw tension. Education on better posture can also help to relieve the strain on the TMJ.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome: Physiotherapy for carpal tunnel syndrome may include exercises that stretch and strengthen the wrist and hand, manual therapy to reduce pressure on the median nerve, and advice on modifying activities to reduce symptoms. Splinting and other conservative management strategies might also be part of the treatment plan.
• Frozen shoulder: Physiotherapy can help improve the mobility of a frozen shoulder through range-of-motion exercises, stretching exercises, and manual therapy. In the early stages of the condition, pain management techniques, such as applying heat or cold, might also be used.
• Plantar fasciitis: Physiotherapy for plantar fasciitis might include exercises to stretch and strengthen the foot and lower leg muscles, manual therapy, and advice on footwear and modifying activities. The therapist might also provide strategies to manage pain, such as applying ice to the area or using taping techniques. Additionally, a physiotherapist may provide advice on how to prevent a recurrence of plantar fasciitis in the future.