Physiotherapy Services
Physiotherapy Today
Understanding the Different Types of Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is surprisingly a very broad field with many different specialisations. Here are some of the most common types of physiotherapy services that you may come across:
Sports Physiotherapy
Sports physiotherapy’s focal point is the treatment and prevention of sports injuries. Physios specialising in this area work with athletes to help manage pain and promote rehabilitation. They are experts in improving flexibility, strength, and overall fitness through tailored exercise programs and strength and conditioning routines. These physiotherapists often use techniques like dry needling and shockwave therapy to treat shoulder impingement, tendon issues, and knee pain.
While athletes are the primary recipients of this type of physiotherapy, anyone who has suffered a sports injury can benefit. It’s meant to reduce pain, promote healing, and prevent future injuries by addressing underlying imbalances and weaknesses.
Neurophysiotherapy
Neurophysiotherapy is centred on treating patients with neurological conditions, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries. This type of physio aims to improve the patient's mobility, balance, and overall functional independence. In a clinical setting, physiotherapists use a multidisciplinary approach and exercise therapy to develop personalised programs that enhance freedom of movement and quality of life. Hydrotherapy and Pilates may also be integrated into treatments to target specific muscle groups and promote motor recovery.
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Musculoskeletal physiotherapy addresses muscle, joint, and bone pain and injuries. Patients suffering from conditions like knee osteoarthritis, lower limb injuries, and back pain will benefit from tailored exercise programs and manual therapy techniques. Physios in this field often provide treatments in a clinic or gym environment, using tools such as treadmills and weight training equipment to aid in rehabilitation. Effective acute and chronic pain management is a priority, ensuring patients achieve optimal pain relief and improved function.
Paediatric Physiotherapy
Paediatric physiotherapy specialises in the treatment of children and adolescents with physical impairments or disabilities. These physios often collaborate with other healthcare providers and NDIS partners in health to create comprehensive treatment plans that address various developmental and congenital conditions. Techniques such as clinical Pilates, play-based exercises, and ortho-therapy are commonly used to enhance strength, coordination, and flexibility. The focus is on enabling children to reach their full potential and achieve higher independence.
Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy
Cardiopulmonary physiotherapy targets patients with heart and lung issues, i.e., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or after cardiac surgery. This specialty involves exercise physiology and exercise medicine, utilising cardio exercises to improve cardiovascular fitness and respiratory function. Physiotherapists in this field often work in clinics or rehabilitation settings, providing interventions like breath re-training, weight management, and tailored exercise programs. The objective is better overall health and reduce the physical limitations of cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions.
Physiotherapy offers numerous specialised services to improve patients' health and functional outcomes. By formulating treatment programs to individual needs, physios play an indispensable role in pain management, injury rehabilitation, and enhancing quality of life. As someone looking for physiotherapy services, your job is to understand the different types of physiotherapy available and find a professional specialising in your specific condition.
