What conditions can be treated with physiotherapy? | One to One Wellness in Halifax, NS

Physiotherapy helps individuals improve their range of motion following an injury or illness. But it’s not for athletes or sports enthusiasts, alone.

Physiotherapists can guide you to manage the discomfort and pain brought about by certain conditions and minimize the onset of symptoms. Movement, exercise, and education are among the crucial components of physiotherapy.

Physiotherapy is a science-based practice and it can help treat a wide range of conditions. It takes a holistic approach to enhance health and wellness, which includes a person’s lifestyle.

Here are some conditions that can be treated with physiotherapy.

Back pain

Back pain is a common cause of physical disability at home and in the workplace. Physiotherapy can help relieve back pain. It can be used as a treatment on its own or combined with other treatment methods.

Physiotherapy for back pain stresses the importance of early movement and improving the mobility of the affected area. It targets specific muscles to enhance their strength and stability.

Your physiotherapist recommends a custom exercise program to address your condition and the diagnoses for your back pain. If your back pain is related to work, your physiotherapist may also recommend ergonomic devices or tools to promote proper posture and help cure your back pain.

Your physiotherapist also educates and guides you on correct habits to maintain good posture.

Chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome lasts for at least six months. It’s characterized by lack of energy, feeling fatigued fast, and exhaustion that sleep cannot ease. Severe cases can impact a person’s daily performance.

Physiotherapy for chronic fatigue syndrome involves the use of an individualized treatment plan. Physiotherapists help minimize discomfort and improve your ability to function.

Since CFS can cause you to feel weak or tired, you and your physiotherapist focus on movements that promote strength and endurance. They may also recommend coordinating with other specialists to manage other symptoms.

They’ll guide you so you can use and preserve your energy while performing tasks and also offer advice so you can maximize your sleep. They may also include manual or hands-on therapy in your program to reduce body pain and improve mobility.

Arthritis

According to the Arthritis Society of Canada, 6 million or 1 in 5 Canadians today have arthritis. That constitutes about 20% of the population and even children can get affected.

Arthritis has no known cure but your physiotherapist can help educate you further about your condition and how you can manage its effects. Arthritis can affect a specific part of the body or several joints and muscles.

Your physiotherapist can recommend other methods for relief, such as applying ice packs to soothe joints or heat packs to relax muscles. They can advise you on how you can increase your activities without overdoing them.

They tailor an exercise routine to stimulate the release of hormones that relieve pain. They may also provide hands-on massage or use machines when necessary.

Migraines and headaches

Migraines and headaches are common and everyone is likely to experience them at some point. They vary in severity and causes, with some cases causing immobility.

Your physiotherapist can help determine which causes are related to your migraines or headaches. They can recommend specific treatments, such as manual therapy or rehabilitation exercises, to help you manage your symptoms.

They provide tips so you can reduce triggers or episodes. This can include keeping your posture, habits, and sleeping positions in check. They also guide you so you can relax your muscles and exercise without hurting tight or weak areas of your body.

Most importantly, they work closely with your physician to ensure your overall wellness.

Cancer

Physiotherapists can also provide cancer rehabilitation programs.

Physical activity can help patients cope following cancer treatments. Your physiotherapist can develop an individualized treatment plan to help reduce fatigue, uplift mood, regain control and mobility, maintain healthy body weight, and reduce the risk of other diseases.

They help you recover faster after undergoing surgery with the help of safe physical activities. They also guide you so you can motivate yourself to exercise.

They work with your physician and entire rehabilitation team to help improve your independence and quality of life.

Physiotherapists can help you manage health conditions

Physiotherapists help enhance overall well-being. They provide safe alternatives to invasive treatments and help you return to your normal life sooner following a procedure.

They’re professionals and can work with other specialists to help you regain your independence, increase your range of motion, and reduce the risks of conditions worsening or coming back again.