When people think of “physiotherapy” or “physical therapy,” they often associate it with injured athletes or stroke patients on their way to recovery. This is not wrong, although it’s also not the complete picture. Physiotherapy is not just about providing treatment for people with diseases and injuries that cause mobility problems. It’s also about fitness, wellness, and improving one’s quality of life at any age. Moreover, its benefits are not limited only to mobility-related issues. You’d be surprised at just how much a physiotherapist can help improve your overall health.
Of course, it’s still best to consult with your physician to avoid misdiagnosis. Once you get the go signal, it’s all a matter of finding a trusted physiotherapist Como clinic or a physical therapy centre wherever you’re located. However, to give you an idea just how all-encompassing it can be, we listed down a few situations when physiotherapy can be advantageous.
You’re Pregnant or Just Gave Birth
Women’s bodies are unique and therefore have unique needs. For example, there are drastic physical changes when a woman gets pregnant and after she gives birth. Physiotherapy can help with prenatal and postnatal care by preventing back pain, encouraging proper blood circulation, and promoting (or restoring) proper posture. A physiotherapist can also assist you in exercising the pelvic floor and stomach muscles to help stimulate the normal function of the muscle fibres.
You Suffer From Incontinence
There are plenty of reasons why a person may suffer from incontinence. Urinary tract infections and constipation can cause temporary cases of incontinence, and even some medications can trigger the condition. Another primary cause of incontinence for both men and women is weak pelvic floor muscles. This is where physiotherapists can help. They can teach you exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor and how to correctly use the muscles in that area. Moreover, they can also advise you regarding dietary and lifestyle changes to help manage the issue.
You Have Diabetes
People with diabetes often suffer from vascular issues, especially in the lower extremities. A physical therapist can teach foot and leg exercises to prevent complications of reduced blood flow. Physiotherapy can also be part of an exercise program designed to help control blood sugar.
You Have Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Issues
Some cases of heart attacks are mild enough to not cause problems with daily mobility and functioning. In worse cases, however, physiotherapy may be required to help strengthen the heart and restore cardiovascular health. Meanwhile, those with pulmonary problems can benefit from physical therapy through conditioning and breathing exercises. In turn, these help clear the lungs for easier respiration.
You’re Experiencing Age-Related Problems
As we age, problems related to balance, mobility, and flexibility arise. Such problems include rheumatism, arthritis, and osteoporosis. With the help of physiotherapy, these problems can be addressed in a non-invasive manner. Physiotherapy may even help restore energy due to improved blood circulation. If you need mobility aids like canes, a physical therapist can recommend the best option.
You Have Vertigo
If you have a problem with your vestibular system, then you’ve probably suffered from extreme dizziness and vertigo. A physiotherapist can prescribe specific exercises and techniques to restore vestibular function, thus decreasing the severity and frequency of vertigo symptoms. In addition, physiotherapy can also improve your balance.
You’re About to Undergo or Just Underwent Surgery
There are times when physical therapy can completely eliminate the need for surgery. This means lower healthcare costs and—more importantly—less stress on your body. However, if surgery can’t be avoided, your body can benefit from pre-surgery physiotherapy. It will strengthen your body and thus help you recover faster. Meanwhile, post-surgery physiotherapy provides stimulation for cartilages, joints, and tissues to aid in recovery. Physiotherapy also promotes better blood circulation, reducing the risk of developing blood clots.
You Have Body Aches and Pains
There are plenty of exercises that can reduce or eliminate aches and pains that we acquire through repetitive movements, minor accidents, stress, and improper posture. Your physiotherapist can customise an exercise plan for you to prevent neck, shoulder, and arm pain, as well as headaches, back pain and more. In addition, if you need items like therapy pillows, foam rollers, or athletic tape, a physiotherapist can recommend the best products that suit your needs.
As you can see, physical therapy plays a bigger role in your health. Ask your doctor if your health problem can be alleviated by physiotherapy. If you’re not injured or suffering from any health conditions, you can still benefit from physiotherapy as it can help boost your body’s physical performance. Ultimately, you’ll live a longer, healthier life.