Physiotherapy, also called physical therapy, is a branch of allied health care, which, together with evidence-based rehabilitation, health information, kinesiology, electric stimulation, rehabilitation, motor control, movement therapy and physical education, can improve a patient’s quality of life. It is important to note that there is no single diagnosis or procedure for physiotherapy.
The aim of physiotherapy is to restore the functions of the musculoskeletal system through the application of manipulation or exercise. It involves the use of various methods to promote and facilitate normal activity in the musculoskeletal system. It may focus on the musculoskeletal system of the lower limb or upper extremities. It may include rehabilitation of patients with a spinal cord injury, muscular dystrophy, neurological impairments and congenital anomalies.
The term ‘physiotherapy’ came into being during the 1950s in the United States. It was developed by Arthur Agatston, and is generally considered to have been a part of health care. It is a specialized practice that offer treatment to patients that are unable to perform tasks of daily living on their own, as well as patients that need specialized help with their disabilities or conditions. Physiotherapy has become more widely available, particularly in hospitals and nursing homes. However, it has been under-recognized in the United States since its beginning.
Physiotherapy can help patients with various conditions. Its main objectives are to help patients who are unable to perform activities of daily living, improve mobility, rehabilitate injured muscles and improve the quality of their lives.
In the United States, more than three-quarters of people in nursing homes who receive physical therapy are elderly people. There is a trend for caregivers to encourage patients in physical therapy rather than performing it themselves. However, many patients do not want to participate in physical therapy to begin with.
Rehabilitation is essential when an injured patient wants to be able to live independently. Physical therapy can help patients regain their independence and function as independently as possible. It is not always clear which patients require rehabilitation and which ones may need care-giving. It is a collaborative process that includes a variety of therapies and supports to address a person’s needs.
Rehabilitation may also involve educating patients on how to perform tasks such as bathing, dressing, using the toilet, and walking. This can take several forms. A physiotherapist will provide instructions that can make it easier for an elderly patient to learn new activities that can lead to greater freedom. Physical therapists may also work with patients to build up strength and mobility in their bodies to make sure they can do everything without assistance.
Physiotherapy may include a combination of treatments to deal with a patient’s problems. For example, the treatment may include rehabilitation and exercise in order to increase muscle strength, or to reduce mobility in the musculoskeletal system, and to reduce stiffness. Physical therapists may also use massage, electrotherapy, electrical stimulation, massage therapy, and traction to improve balance and co-ordination.
Most patients do not receive rehabilitation on their first visit. The goal is to help the patient return to the position they were in before the injury or illness, but it may take several months for them to achieve good results. Physiotherapy is important in these cases. Physical therapists also provide the guidance and expertise to help patients with daily activities.