Physiotherapy: exercise and physical therapy

Pain therapy
Intro

Physiotherapy can help with dysfunctions of the body and with pain. Physiotherapy is an important part of treatment after surgery or accidents. It is used for treatment of illnesses, but also for prevention. Exercise is a part of physiotherapy. Here, correct sequences of movements are practised, stiff joints are mobilised and exercises are demonstrated. In addition, physical therapy using heat treatments or massages can be used to support the patient’s progress.

What does a physiotherapist do?
A physiotherapist supports patients with physical complaints or pain. When the patient comes to therapy for the first time, they discuss the symptoms and the patient’s medical history together. The therapist examines the movements of the muscles and bones, looking for ways to help. Physiotherapists are used in almost all medical facilities: in clinics, rehabilitation centres, sports therapy and for outpatient treatments.

Why is exercise therapy useful?
It is important for your health to exercise well into old age. Diseases such as diabetes are influenced by exercise. If patients are in pain or injured, their movements are restricted. As a result, they can no longer perform to their full potential or may be absent from work. That’s why exercise therapy is particularly important. The patient is encouraged to take responsibility for themselves. The physiotherapist will demonstrate exercises that can be easily incorporated into everyday life.

What are physical applications?
In addition to exercise therapy, physical applications are an important part of physiotherapy. An external stimulus such as heat, cold or water is used during treatment. Electric current or ultrasound are also used. Physical therapy is used as a complement to exercise therapy. The patient does not have to actively participate, which can sometimes be an advantage. Physical applications are used to ensure the muscles are better supplied with blood and tension is released. They also have an influence on inflammation and work to combat pain.