Physiotherapy is a branch of health care that focuses on maximizing human function and potential through physical approaches. The field combines exercises and manual therapy to treat a wide range of conditions and enhance quality of life. In the United States, it is commonly referred to as physical therapy. Evidence-based practice is essential to physiotherapy. It is a science-based practice that uses clinical judgment to make the best treatment choices for patients.
Physiotherapists are skilled at using various techniques to improve patient health and function. Massage, for example, is one of the most popular forms of physiotherapy. The soft tissues of the body are massaged to help with circulation, relieve pain, and promote recovery. Other physiotherapy techniques are called soft tissue techniques and joint mobilization. These two practices are similar to massage and aim to increase joint mobility and relieve pain. Minimal energy techniques are a form of manual therapy that uses the energy of the muscles to make changes.
Physiotherapy is helpful to patients of all ages. It can prevent injury and restore function, and it can even help prevent or manage chronic conditions. It can help people remain active and in work, and it can help them recover from sports injuries. It treats the whole person, from brain to heart. Many physiotherapists also offer home visits and some of them can even work on patients’ physical abilities through the use of acupuncture.