A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing a Physiotherapist

People of all ages get physiotherapy treatment for a range of health conditions. From restoring mobility and reducing pain to maximizing strength and promoting well-being, physiotherapy offers many benefits with a holistic approach that allows each patient to achieve a better life without relying on medications or the need for surgery.

In this article, we’ll look at how to choose the best physiotherapist to suit your needs.

What is the goal of physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy aims to ease pain, improve function, and increase quality of life. To achieve this, a physical therapist will design a program that addresses each patient’s specific goals.

For many, physiotherapy treatment is prescribed as the first step to rehabilitation and recovery after an accident, injury, surgery, or stroke. Restoring range of motion and ease of movement after sports injuries, like muscle strains and sprains, are common goals of physiotherapy.

Those with mobility issues learning to use devices like a cane or walker or adapting to using an artificial limb can also benefit from this modality. Maybe you’re living with a chronic ailment like arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease.

For people who have pain or restriction of movement, the initial goal will be to restore body function to normal. Athletes and active people often have the goal of injury prevention to enhance physical longevity.

Whatever the condition or ultimate goal, physiotherapy offers a healthy and effective way to relieve pain, strengthen the body, and increase life quality.

Tip 1: Check their qualifications

In Canada, a university degree in physiotherapy, a period of practical training, and a license or registration with a regulatory body are required to practice. Beyond the initial training, some therapists continue their education to increase their knowledge and treatment skills. Choosing a physiotherapist with advanced education, credentials, and qualifications can be critical in providing more effective treatment and recovery.

Some therapists will specialize in a certain area. Pelvic floor, orthopedic, pediatric, sports, foot pain, and women’s health are just a sampling of the many specializations they can offer. You may need the expertise of a specialist for some conditions. For example, long-term pain problems that have been difficult to treat may require a physiotherapist with proficiency in pain management. High-level athletes with recurring issues, such as an Achilles tendon injury, should seek out the advice of a practitioner who routinely deals with this problem.

Tip 2: Assess treatment methods they offer

The best physiotherapy treatment methods allow the patient to play an active part in their care. A well-rounded approach will include manual, hands-on adjustments, take-home exercises, condition education, and lifestyle advice.

During manual therapy, the therapist may use their hands to restore mobility, loosen tight tissues, stimulate blood flow, increase flexibility and reduce pain. Take-home exercises will be customized to address your concerns.

Laser therapy is a non-invasive technique that increases the body’s natural ability to heal itself, reducing pain and swelling. Shockwave therapy uses low-energy acoustic soundwaves to achieve the same. Acupuncture uses fine needles at targeted points on the body to stimulate the central nervous system and relieve chronic pain.

Tip 3: Atmosphere & personality

While education and physiotherapy treatment methods are important, they can’t replace feeling comfortable with your physical therapist and surroundings. Visiting the website will often give you a good idea of the clinic environment.

When choosing a physiotherapist, you want someone who understands your problems and goals, who will listen to you and be honest about the treatment you need.

Contact us today!

Delta Physiotherapy & Rehab is a complete full-service movement rehabilitation center in Mississauga.

We offer a collaborative approach with patients to encourage faster recovery and reduce the chances of recurring injury.

To schedule your appointment, please call 905-270-3086 or book online.