What do treatments involve?
The aim of a physiotherapy treatment is to help overcome symptoms of the problem and to prevent recurrence. At the initial assessment a full history of the problem is taken along with other details such as previous medical history and injury, exercise regimes and work and hobby demands. A physical examination of the affected area and possible related areas is then carried out. From this information, a tailored treatment programme is formulated for each individual including outcome goals for treatment and a possible time span for treatment. The treatment programme is reviewed and updated at each appointment in order to accommodate individual responses to the programme.
For example, a treatment programme may aim to:
- relieve pain
- restore normal movement and function
- build strength and return the patient to normal sports and activities following an injury or operation
- retrain specific muscles following injury, disuse, or poor movement habits
- provide a home programme of exercises to correct or improve a particular condition
- advise on work ergonomics, posture habits, exercise programmes etc.
Treatment can include the following:
- Mobilisation and manipulation of the joints and tissues
- Exercise therapy to mobilise and strengthen weakened or inactive muscles
- Electrical treatments (electrotherapy) including ultrasound and interferential therapy
- Trigger point acupuncture for pain conditions
- Advice on return to exercise and resumption of sporting activities
- Advice on pacing activities and ergonomic strategies for upper limb disorders
Measures to prevent recurrence often include reviewing or revising training programmes in the case of sports injuries and musicians and looking at ergonomic factors such as the patient’s posture and general work area.
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