Physiotherapy is a clinical health profession that aims to rehabilitate people following injury and to improve movement disorders. Physiotherapy uses evidence based, natural methods; such as manual therapies, exercise and education.
Physiotherapists are movement specialists whose training involves University degree level study, covering medical science subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and psychology. Physiotherapists also study a wide variety of treatment techniques, with continuous professional development an essential component of their career.
In the UK, all Physiotherapists must be registered with the Health Professions Council. Physiotherapy is a protected title, meaning only people who are HCPC registered are legally able to call themselves a physiotherapist. Membership of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy also guarantees that a Physiotherapist is fully insured and is governed by a stringent professional code of conduct.
The types of conditions which physiotherapy can help with are:
- Sports and non-sports related Injuries
- All joint sprains and pains
- Cartilage and ligament injuries
- Muscle strains
- Neck pain, Back pain and Sciatica
- Shoulder and Rotator cuff injuries
- Tendonitis and tendinopathies
- Tennis Elbow and Golfers Elbow
- Post-op Rehabilitation, following surgery such as ACL reconstruction or shoulder stabilisation
- Exercise prescription, including gym-based programs specific to your needs
- Bicycle assessment and set up advice
- Biomechanical assessments
- Sports specific screening
- Gait analysis and footwear advice
- Headaches
- Advice on prevention
Treatment techniques can include:
- Mobilisation and manipulation
- Massage and trigger point techniques
- Exercise prescription
- Acupuncture
- Education and advice on prevention
- Footwear and orthotics advice
- Video analysis and biomechanical feedback