Physiotherapy is a medical intervention that treats injury and disease through physical methods such as massage, heat therapy, acupuncture and magnetic therapy. The primary function of physiotherapy is to manage pain and restore the functionality of ailing body parts. The extract below discusses how you can get the most of out of your physio treatments:
Engage a Qualified Physiotherapist
Find a licenced and experienced physiotherapist to help you through physiotherapy. Preferably, engage a therapist skilled in treating your specific injury or illness. For instance, some therapists will specialise in sports injuries, while others deal with lung conditions such as COPD. Inquire about the therapist's reputation; your GP should be a good source of such information. Besides, you could conduct internet research on social media and medical blogs to determine reputable physiotherapists in your locality.
Set Your Goals
During your first visit to the physiotherapist, he or she will guide you on how to set your physio goals. The professional will examine the severity of your injuries or illness to determine which approaches will be used and how long the program will last. Typically, you will begin with slow exercises and proceed to more intense exercises over time. Your goals must be realistic. For example, if you have a knee injury, you should focus on moving the knee before you can start walking.
Seek the Support of Family and Friends
Physio exercises can be excruciating at first. As a result, some patients lack the drive to attend clinics or practice the exercises at home. Having a strong support structure consisting of close friends and family can go a long way in ensuring you abide by the program. For instance, they could take you to the clinic or help you perform the exercises at home.
Evaluating Your Goals
Every few weeks, your therapist will determine whether or not you have met your goals. Do not be disappointed if you do not achieve your goals -- physiotherapy takes time and effort. If your doctor thinks that the current treatment is no longer working, he or she will try alternative exercises. If they do not work, he or she may recommend other medical procedures such as surgery.
Pain Management
Some patients complain of intense pains once they begin the physio program. Your physiotherapist could prescribe painkillers or ask you to use ice or heat packs to manage the pain. In severe cases, the therapist may use electrotherapy to block pain signals as you perform the physio exercises.
The secret to a successful physio program is patient motivation and engaging an experienced physiotherapist. Seek the support of close friends and family and set realistic goals to improve the outcome of physiotherapy sessions.
