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What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a profession allied to medicine. It is a scientific and hands on approach to treating physical problems caused by illness, injury or ageing.
Physiotherapists use a range of techniques that aim to optimise tissue healing, improve range of movement and so reduce pain. They help people recover from injury and get them back functioning as quick as possible.
They combine a hands-on approach and rehabilitation exercise programme in order to speed up recovery and reduce re-occurrence.
In particular, they concentrate on conditions that effect muscle bones, ligaments and nerves. Physiotherapy can help improve parts of the body that have been affected by injury.
What is a ‘chartered’ physiotherapist?
In Ireland, the title ‘physio’ is not protected and there are many people who call themselves physios who do not have any formal university training.
However, a chartered physiotherapist has completed a University Degree in Physiotherapy and they have all been trained in hospitals.
They are members of the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP: www.iscp.ie ). As members, they are committed to continuing professional development and must adhere to high standards of treatment.
They are science based and they use treatments that are evidence based and proven by scientific research to be effective.
What can I expect?
First your physiotherapist will take a detailed history of your condition followed by a comprehensive evaluation. It may be necessary to have the area exposed in order to examine it thoroughly so it would be a good idea to wear shorts or a string top depending on where your injury is.
You will then be given a diagnosis and different treatment techniques will be used to treat your condition, as well as the underlying causes.
Your physio should be able to tell you how many sessions you will need.
Only chartered physiotherapists are approved by healthcare insurers in Ireland. You may be entitled to claim from your insurer for physio expenses.
What do physiotherapists treat?
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Sports injuries. - Back pain.
- Neck pain.
- Joint sprains.
- Osteoarthritis.
- Posture.
- Poor muscle function.
- Poor biomechanics.
- Flat feet.
- Strained muscles or tendonitis.
