Interesting facts about Physiotherapy

Do you know when Physiotherapy was established? Or the other uses apart from treating physical injuries? Find those answers and more in these interesting facts that you probably never knew about physiotherapy.

1. Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy

Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy are the same, it is simply named differently depending on what country you are in. The two terms are used to describe physical medicine and rehabilitation improving mobility functioning and overall quality of life.

2. Physiotherapy was established in Canada after WW1

When soldiers returned home, they needed help restoring function mobility, and injury rehabilitation. Physiotherapy became a highly common treatment option for thousands of soldiers.

3. Physiotherapy is a medical practice older than you think

It is believed that Greek Physician Hippocrates, considered the "Father of Western Medicine", created the Hippocratic Oath which incorporates similar to physiotherapy. Hippocrates used hydrotherapy (water therapy) to treat patients. This type of therapy dates as far back as 460BC and is still used in the modern day.

4. Physiotherapy is not just for physical injuries

Physiotherapy can be used for a wide range of conditions extending beyond physical sport-related or accidental injury rehabilitation. It can be used to manage chronic pain, back pain and even prepare expectant mothers for childbirth.

Physiotherapy can improve cognitive function, mood and overall emotional status of patients. It can help to treat neurological conditions like stroke, vertigo, Parkinson’s Disease and multiple sclerosis. Physiotherapy for mental health focuses on the body as a whole. It places a strong focus on body functioning, movement awareness and physical activity.

Other illnesses that can be treated through physiotherapy are:

· Cardiovascular illnesses like heart disease and heart attacks

· Respiratory illnesses such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and obstructive pulmonary disease

5. Physiotherapy can relieve severe pain

Physiotherapy endows long-term pain relief. Those suffering from chronic pain, and discomfort can impact emotional, physical, and social health. Many people then seek painkillers which only provides a short-term relief of pain.

Patients suffering severe and persistent pain that prolongs beyond three months, may result from underlying inflammation or tissue damage. In this case it is highly likely that physiotherapy is required for healing.

6. Physiotherapy and Homework

Physiotherapy requires individuals to do ‘homework’. This means that to really have the best recovery journey, patients should do the exercises and physical activities recommended, at home to accelerate recovery and reach fitness goals.

7. Physiotherapy is for everybody

You do not have to have a severe health condition or be in serious pain to seek treatment of a physiotherapist. Physiotherapists are willing to treat those who have no illness, and this is a great way to prevent any future illnesses. Those who are interested in building physical strength and endurance or become better athletes benefit greatly from working with physiotherapists.

8. Physiotherapy Advice

Physiotherapists are specially trained and are part of a multidisciplinary team in various areas of medicine and medical settings.

Apart from manual therapy, physiotherapists can give general advice about things that affect our daily lives like improvements to posture or correct lifting and carrying techniques, to prevent injuries. Advice on strengthening exercises for specific parts of the body can be recommended too.

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