The father of medicine, Hippocrates, was a keen advocate for techniques such as manual manipulation or massage, exercise and regular movement for alleviating many ailments. It was not until 1894 that such techniques became chartered as a profession within mainstream medicine, namely, Physiotherapy.
Most people think of physiotherapy as a rehabilitation treatment for musculo-skeletal disorders and injuries. However, physiotherapy is increasingly recommended not just for MSD but also neuromuscular, respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. It is true that musculo-skeletal disorders are one of the most common problems treated by physiotherapy, but the discipline is known to treat conditions such as asthma, incontinence and recovery from stroke. Physiotherapists can teach clients better breathing techniques, pelvic floor exercises, or recommend suitable exercise for rehabilitation after a stroke.
Clients include athletes and children, those suffering recent injury or with long-term disabilities or rehabilitating. Increasingly, evidence demonstrates that early intervention can reduce the amount of time a person is off sick from work, and as such, employers are ever more aware of the benefits of such treatments within their Occupational Health packages.
It is thought that great savings can be made in health care if <a href="http://www.bupa.co.uk/individuals/self-pay-treatments/physiotherapy-sports-medicine/what-we-treat">physiotherapy</a> is accessed sooner, and in many cases, this can happen as an outpatient instead of a hospital stay. In one study, 80% of respondents said that physiotherapy for their lower back pain significantly shortened their sickness absence by as much as six weeks, benefitting employer and employee.
The aim of physio is to restore and promote movement through manipulation and exercise. The treatment is holistic, because it takes the whole person’s lifestyle into account; the therapist looks at the client’s overall wellbeing, their mobility and activity levels, their posture, and makes recommendations accordingly. It is essential that the client be actively involved in their treatment, as they will be responsible for maintaining the repetition and regularity of the prescribed exercises.
The manual manipulation practises are types of massage, which the therapist employs to alleviate pain, drain fluids, improve circulation and increase mobility, recovering the function of the affected area. Therapists will also use hot and cold compresses, water therapy and even acupuncture in some cases.
Known to reduce risk of heart disease, cancer , diabetes and stroke, physical exercise is essential in helping to prevent physical illness. In physiotherapy, the key is to begin this reconditioning process as soon as possible after illness or injury to strengthen the body, restore mobility and relieve pain.
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