About physical therapy
Here is some basic information about physical therapy .
Physical therapists, (also known as physiotherapists) are experts in developing and maintaining people’s ability to move and function throughout their lives. With an advanced understanding of how the body moves and what keeps it from moving well, they promote wellness, mobility and independence. They treat and prevent many problems caused by pain, illness, disability and disease, sport and work related injuries, ageing and long periods of inactivity.
Physical therapists work with people affected by a wide range of conditions and symptoms, for example:
- painful conditions such as arthritis, repetitive strain injury, neck and back pain
- cancer
- strokes, Parkinson’s disease and spinal cord injury
- heart problems
- cystic fibrosis and cerebral palsy
- trauma, such as road traffic accidents and landmines
- incontinence
They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, health centres, sports centres, education and research centres, hospices and nursing homes, rural and community settings.
Here are some examples of how physical therapists make a difference. They
- use their skills to treat the underlying causes of pain and limitations in movement and function
- use many treatment approaches to help individuals regain their mobility and maximise their potential
- promote healthy lifestyles and exercise
- treat each patient/client as an individual and thoroughly assess them to identify their needs
- treat sports injuries and promote safe and healthy activities
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work with children with coordination, balance and other movement problems to improve and maximise their independence.
