physiotherapy

Shockwave therapy is a device designed to treat chronic pain and a range of musculoskeletal disorders. It is used across multiple disciplines providing quality sports medicine, podiatry, and physiotherapy. Originally used for the treatment of kidney stones in the 1980s, the key benefits of shockwave treatment are fast pain relief and mobility restoration.

Shockwave therapy is a non invasive therapy that effectively stimulates the body’s intrinsic repair mechanisms to restore normal tissue and heal injured tissue. It has been found to be an effective treatment for tendon injuries and orthopaedic conditions.

The cost of physiotherapy can vary from clinic to clinic, depending on a variety of factors. Medicare rebates, or private health insurance are accepted across many practices to reduce out-of-pocket expense for physio treatment.

Under the Medicare Benefits Schedule, Medicare benefits are available for up to five allied health appointments per calendar year for each eligible patient, of which physiotherapy is included. To receive Medicare rebates for a physiotherapy session, you must be classified as having a chronic musculoskeletal condition and obtain a referral from your GP.

It should be noted, however that Medicare does not typically cover the entire fee, and therefore you may incur any remaining costs. Private health funds accepted by a physio clinic are usually disclosed on the practice’s website; just like Medicare, Private health insurance does not cover the entire fee.

Acupuncture and dry needling are both forms of needling therapies, and involve the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific locations across the skin to trigger particular responses. The main differences between dry needling and acupuncture are the technique and theory for how and where the needles are placed.

Dry needling is focused on using strong stimulation of trigger points in order to reduce muscle tension. In contrast to this, western anatomical acupuncture is based on channel theory and does not use strong stimulation, but rather uses trigger points to heal the body and muscle naturally. A physical therapist will use dry needling to relieve pain and tension from knots and pressure points in muscle tissue, whereas practitioners of acupuncture insert needles to release endorphins and affect the central nervous system.

In addition to this, the patient process also differs between the two practices. Acupuncture needles are typically left in place for 15-30 minutes, with an acupuncturist performing the treatment. An acupuncturist is a certified health professional who applies traditional Chinese medicine in the form of acupuncture.

During dry needling, however, needles will be placed deeply or superficially depending on which area of the body is being treated. They are typically left in for no longer than 15 minutes, with the occasional manipulation or winding of the needle. Dry needling is most often performed by physical therapists or sports injury specialists, who are trained and correctly certified in the treatment for myofascial trigger points.

Physiotherapy can indeed be highly beneficial in addressing neck pain. Whether the pain is caused by poor posture, muscle strain, injury, or underlying conditions, physiotherapy offers effective treatment options. Skilled physiotherapists employ various techniques such as manual therapy, exercise prescription, stretching, and posture correction to target the root cause of neck pain. They also provide education on ergonomics and lifestyle modifications to prevent further discomfort. Through personalized treatment plans, physiotherapy aims to alleviate pain, improve range of motion, strengthen muscles, and enhance overall neck function. If you’re experiencing neck pain, consult with a qualified physiotherapist who can assess your condition and develop a tailored approach to help you find relief and restore neck health.