18th May 23

What is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a health profession that uses physical methods such as exercise, massage, hydrotherapy and manipulation to treat people suffering from conditions affecting their movement and causing pain.

Physiotherapists aim to help manage pain, improve mobility, restore functional ability and prevent future injury or disability. They may provide treatment in hospital, clinic or community settings. There are options for self referral and by using your medical insurance.

The Carter & George Practice is a private clinic that operates on a self referral basis.

What are the Benefits of Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy can help improve movement, reduce pain and restore normal function. It can also be used to prevent injury by helping people understand how to move safely and effectively.

Physiotherapy is often recommended following surgery or injury because it helps speed up recovery times, allowing patients to return to their daily activities as quickly as possible.

What Common Conditions can be Treated with Physiotherapy?

Common conditions that can be treated with physiotherapy include back and neck pain, sports injuries, arthritis, joint stiffness and sprains.

Physiotherapists may also provide treatment for postural problems, respiratory issues such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), neurological conditions such as stroke or multiple sclerosis (MS).

At The Carter & George Practice, we specialise in MSK Physiotherapy (muscles/joints/tendon/sports), however we have a network of experts we can refer you to if we are unable to help.

Because of the self referral process, you can usually access a physiotherapy service quickly.

Type of Physiotherapy Treatments:

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is a type of physical therapy that involves using hands-on techniques to manage and alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, promote tissue healing and improve mobility.

Manual therapy uses massage, joint mobilization, stretching and other techniques to help restore normal movement or functioning.

Exercise Therapy

Exercise therapy is a type of physical therapy that uses specific exercises and movements to treat health conditions, improve functional abilities and prevent disability or injury.

Exercise therapy can help improve range of motion, strength, balance and coordination. It may also be used to manage chronic pain. Exercise therapists use different types of exercises such as stretching, strengthening and aerobic fitness work.

Electrotherapy

Electrotherapy is a type of physical therapy that uses electrical stimulation to treat pain, promote healing and restore function. It can be used on people suffering from musculoskeletal conditions such as sports injuries, arthritis or chronic pain.

Electrotherapy works by sending electrical impulses into the affected area, which can reduce inflammation, decrease muscle spasms and improve circulation. It can also help relieve pain, restore strength and increase range of motion.

Electrotherapy may be used in combination with other treatments such as exercise or manual therapy.

How to Prepare for a Physiotherapy Session?

You are able to make a self referral to Physiotherapy. Before going to a physiotherapy session, it is important to dress appropriately. Wear loose and comfortable clothing that allows the therapist to move your limbs easily.

If possible, you should also bring any relevant documentation such as medical reports or X-rays. You can obtain these from your GP surgery.

Additionally, it is important to discuss any specific concerns or goals with your physiotherapist prior to the session. This will help them tailor a treatment plan that best meets your needs and ensure you get the most out of your session.