Physiotherapists help people affected by injury, illness or disability through movement and exercise, manual therapy, electrotherapeutic modalities, education and advice.
A physiotherapist will assess you using detailed history-taking as well as specific physical tests and measures, such as flexibility or range of motion. He or she will then analyze the assessment findings and use clinical reasoning to establish a diagnosis. Together, you will explore your current abilities and functional needs so the physiotherapist can plan treatments that are consistent with your goals and general health status, and which incorporate approaches and techniques supported by the best evidence available.
Physiotherapy treatment may include but is not limited to:
- Soft tissue massage or release
- Active Release Techniques
- Joint mobilization to reduce pain and stiffness
- Electrotherapeutic and thermal modalities including ultrasound, interferential current and Transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation (TENS) to relieve pain, reduce swelling, facilitate the healing process, improve movement and function
- Personalized exercise programs designed to improve your strength, range of motion, and function
- Functional activity testing and training
- Work and occupational re-training and return to work planning