In the majority of cases, physiotherapy treatment can be effective for a range of conditions when treated by a skilled and experienced physiotherapy professional. Most people may seek advice from a physio for rehabilitation or to alleviate pain from an injury that may have occurred during the gym, sport or at work, however you do not need to have any injury to visit a physiotherapist. Physiotherapy can be used as a preventative measure against injury, as well as to build strength and fitness. There are different types of physiotherapy such as sports physio, musculoskeletal physio, neurological physio, and cardiovascular physio. Under these physiotherapy types, physiotherapists can provide treatment for a broad range of conditions including chronic pain, sports injuries, arthritis, aches, and sprains. At AHP Physio, our physiotherapists specialise in musculoskeletal and sports health, and are passionate about improving performance and quality of life amongst elite athletes and members of the community. To practice as a physiotherapist in Australia, you must complete an approved tertiary qualification, such as a Bachelor of Physiotherapy.
This blog post will answer some common questions for clients that may be unsure about what to expect from a physiotherapy session.
- When should I see a physiotherapist?
- What services do physios offer?
- What conditions can physiotherapy treat?
- How are physiotherapists qualified?
- What you can expect from AHP Physio.
When should I see a physiotherapist?
Unsure if the pain you’re experiencing warrants a physiotherapy appointment? Or maybe you participate in a sport and are looking to strengthen your muscles and improve endurance. Regardless of your circumstance, physiotherapy sessions offer a holistic approach to assist your recovery and rehabilitation process.
Below are some of the top reasons that can indicate when you should see a physiotherapist:
You’re tired all the time
If you are suffering from shoulder or back pain, the overall quality of your sleep may decline. Physiotherapy services can treat and reduce your pain which can result in a better night’s sleep.
You experience regular headaches
Headaches can present as pain, aching or throbbing in different regions of the head or behind the eyes. They can be caused by poor posture or muscular tension in the jaw or neck. Physiotherapy is the most commonly used non-pharmacologic treatment for tension type headaches and migraines and can assist in symptomatic management and restoring function.
Your mobility is restricted
Maintaining a good range of motion can reduce risk of injury. Physiotherapy can increase or improve the mobility of a client through strengthening exercises, endurance training, gait retraining, balance and fall prevention, and prescribing assistive technology.
You are experiencing acute or chronic pain
Acute or chronic conditions such as lower back pain, can significantly impact your day-to-day life. Physiotherapy can provide pain relief and allow you to return to living and doing the things you love pain-free. Treatment modalities for painful conditions include manual therapy, massage, dry needling, electrotherapy, and exercise therapy.
You are looking to improve your athletic performance
In a sporting context, physiotherapy augments athletic abilities, aids in injury prevention, and increases awareness for how to effectively care for the human body. Whether you are an athlete looking to rebuild strength and movement after an injury or manage pain and prevent avoidable damage in the future, physiotherapy can elevate your performance.
What services do physios offer?
At AHP Physio clinics nation-wide, we offer a broad range of services, using various techniques and the latest equipment:
- Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
- Sports Rehabilitation
- Pre- and Post-Surgery Rehabilitation
- Pre-Employment Screening
- Work Injury Rehabilitation
- Functional Assessments
- Manual Therapy Techniques
- Dry Needling and Cupping
- Biomechanical Analysis
- Strapping and Sports Taping
- Shockwave Therapy
What conditions can physiotherapy treat?
Physiotherapy plays a significant role in the treatment and rehabilitation of a wide range of common conditions and injuries. A physiotherapist can assist in the treatment of many things including back and knee pain, sports injuries, arthritis, aches, sprains, incontinence, neurological conditions, chronic disease management, and rehabilitation following a stroke.
At AHP Physio, our qualified physiotherapists work in treating a number of physical problems, as well as health and medical conditions.
Back Pain
- Muscle Strains (from overuse or poor posture)
- Sciatica
- Muscle Injury
- Herniated Disc(s)
- Pinched or Compressed Nerves
- Osteoporosis
- Spinal Stenosis
Bursitis
- Tendon Bursitis
- Posterior Achilles Tendon Bursitis
- Hip Bursitis
- Elbow Bursitis
- Knee Bursitis
- Kneecap Bursitis
Tendinopathies
- Golfer’s Elbow
- Tennis Elbow
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Jumper’s Knee
- Swimmer’s Shoulder
- Tendonitis of the Wrist
Sprains
- Ankle Sprains
- Knee Sprains
- Wrist Sprains
Injuries
- ACL Tears
- Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Cervical Whiplash
Chronic Disease
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Heart, stroke and vascular disease
- Multiple sclerosis
How are physiotherapists qualified?
In Australia, you must have a relevant physiotherapy degree in order to practice physiotherapy (e.g., Bachelor of Physiotherapy) and register with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia. In addition to this, all physiotherapists registered in Australia must complete 20 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) annually. This includes attending lectures or conferences, reviewing journals or presenting education sessions at work.
The Australian Physiotherapy Association is the peak industry body that represents physiotherapists and their patients across the nation. Private practices are able to use the Australia Physiotherapy Association standards to self-assess the safety and quality of primary healthcare they provide to the community, as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of their practice’s operations.
AHP physiotherapists are part of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Our physiotherapists strive to deliver a consistent standard of high-quality physio.
What you can expect from AHP Physio
At AHP Physio, our physiotherapists operate under a scientific evidence-based model of care. This ensures that the treatment you receive from our clinics, is appropriate for you and its benefits are supported by a substantial body of evidence.
It is important to consult with a physiotherapist about your injury. Call one of our professionals today on 1800 571 901 or visit our booking portal to find a local AHP Physio clinic near you.
