Physiotherapy vs. Physical Therapy

Mar 29, 2021

Physiotherapy vs. Physical TherapyRecovery and rehabilitation are key reasons why your doctor may recommend you visit a physical therapist. When it comes to understanding the difference between physiotherapy and physical therapy, the trick is: there isn’t any difference! These words are used interchangeably to define the practice of physical therapists, though the term physiotherapy is sometimes more common in European countries while physical therapy is more common in the United States. Both physical therapy and physiotherapy are a type of medical specialty that focuses on your healing and recovery from injuries, illnesses, and surgeries. Your doctor may recommend you see a physical therapist for pain management, strengthening, flexibility, and improving or restoring your range of motion.

Understanding Physical Therapists

Future physical therapists must first complete a bachelor’s degree in a related field before pursuing physical therapy school, which lasts around 3 years on average. Those who complete physical therapy school earn a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and must pass a state licensure exam in order to practice. Physical therapists are healthcare providers who utilize a conservative treatment approach a combination of minimally invasive and non-invasive treatment styles. People of all ages can undergo physiotherapy for any health concerns that require support through the healing and recovery process.

Reasons for Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can address a number of health concerns, including injuries and diseases like broken bones, muscle strains or tears, Parkinson’s disease, and traumatic brain injuries. Your doctor may recommend you visit a physical therapist after a car accident injury that has affected your mobility. Musculoskeletal injuries of the neck and back may be treated with a more conservative approach under a physical therapist before resorting to a more invasive surgical procedure.

You may also go to physical therapy to prepare for a surgery, commonly referred to as pre-operative physical therapy or physiotherapy. This type of treatment approach helps to build up your strength and stamina in preparation for an operation that may temporarily limit your mobility. Physical therapy before undergoing surgery can help shorten your recovery time and reduce complications. Your physical therapist may utilize stretches and exercises to improve your range of motion and flexibility prior to the surgery.

Physical therapy is often recommended after surgery to help with the healing and recovery process. Those who visit a physical therapist after surgery can shorten your recovery period as you work with a trained professional. Depending on the type of surgery, your physical therapist may use a combination of stretches, exercises, massage therapy, and other techniques to promote the body’s natural healing process. Sometimes surgeries require long periods of rest and recovery, which can lead to weakened muscles and loss of mobility, so a physical therapist can work with you to restore strength to weakened muscles and flexibility in your range of motion.

Benefits of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy has many benefits to help manage diseases, recovery from injury, or recover from surgery. This type of treatment approach offers a more natural, minimally invasive style and can be used to help experience lasting pain relief in order to avoid surgical interventions when possible. Physical therapists help identify ways your strength and mobility are impacted by your health concern and provide personalized care to promote healing and recovery. Physical therapy can also provide a natural approach to pain management for those who wish to avoid strong medications with uncomfortable side effects and addictive qualities. Your physical therapist can also utilize techniques to help you prevent future illness or injury.

Treatment with Physical Therapists

Physical therapists do not offer a one-size-fits-all approach to physical therapy because everyone’s experience is different and everyone’s response to injury and illness is unique. You can expect an individualized treatment plan that addresses your specific injury or illness with physiotherapy techniques that are most appropriate for your condition. Your physical therapist may utilize manual therapies like gentle joint manipulation and therapeutic massage. Stretches and exercises will help you take a more active role in your healing and recovery. These types of therapies will promote better circulation while strengthening your muscles and improving your range of motion. Some physical therapists also offer treatments like ultrasound therapy, acupuncture, and dry-needling to help with pain management and stimulate the body’s natural healing response.

If you are looking for physiotherapy in Conyers then try AICA Orthopedics. Our team of multi-specialty doctors includes orthopedists, chiropractors, neurologists, and physical therapists who all work together to provide you with comprehensive care from diagnosis through treatment and recovery.

 

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