Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy, or physical therapy, originates from ancient Greece and its benefits were identified by Hippocrates around 400BC. Evolving from simple massage techniques, physiotherapy now employs a number of methods to treat patients. One of these methods was developed during the ancient Greek era. Hippocrates, and later practised by Hector, noted the benefits that immersion in water can have on the body. This is now known as hydrotherapy, an important treatment practised by physiotherapists today. 

Modern physiotherapy developed at the end of the 19th century in the UK. Four specialised nurses began to understand the need for patients to be mobile during their hospitalisation, helping with their muscle and joint function. They formed the Society of Trained Masseuses to protect their profession as the idea of young nurses offering massage was seen as disreputable at the time.

The Society gained a Royal Charter in 1920 and in 1944 adopted the name of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy to represent the work it now carried out. Today, there are nearly 50,000 members covering chartered physiotherapists, students and assistants in the UK. 

Physiotherapy uses a number of physical and electrical techniques to treat injury or disease and aims to restore the body to a normal functioning state. The techniques a physiotherapist employs include: massage, manipulation, mobilisation, heat and hydrotherapy.

A physiotherapist will also use another technique called electrotherapy. This has various applications to help block pain and speed up the body's natural healing processes. Using electrical nerve stimulation, ultrasound and laser therapy, the physiotherapist aims to reduce swelling, improve circulation and stimulate the body's own painkilling chemicals called endorphins.

Physiotherapy aims to regain strength in the muscles and increase range of movement. The therapy also looks to educate the patient by advising on diet and appropriate exercises to help with a healthy lifestyle.

Be prepared!

In the UK, physiotherapy is regulated by the Health Professions Council (HPC) and the title of 'physiotherapist' has been protected by law since 2005. Anyone practising physiotherapy or calling themselves a physiotherapist without the necessary registration with the HPC is breaking the law. By ensuring your physiotherapist has the necessary registration you are guaranteed they have a recognised qualification, and they abide by a code of ethics and conduct.

The majority of physiotherapists are chartered and members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP). These physiotherapists will have MCSP or FCSP after their name. If they are not chartered, make sure to check their registration with the HPC. All physiotherapists working within the NHS are registered. An NHS appointment will require referral from your GP but many people choose to see a private practitioner as waiting times can be very long.

Before your appointment, spend time thinking about your condition and what you expect to achieve with physiotherapy. Make some notes before you attend about your expectations and concerns. If you have a few conditions, put them in order so the physiotherapist can address the most severe first. Secondary problems can then be addressed further down the line. It is advisable not to drink alcohol on the day of your appointment; drink plenty of water instead and have a light meal (nothing spicy or fatty) a couple of hours before you see the physiotherapist.

For your treatment, you may be expected to remove some or all of your clothing so it's advisable to wear underwear and bring sports gear. Consult with the practitioner before attending. 

At your first appointment, the physiotherapist will make an initial assessment of your condition by asking about your medical history, nature of your condition and lifestyle. After gaining a better understanding of your problem, they will proceed to a physical examination. This may involve you removing some of your clothing.

The physical examination will involve you making some simple movements as the physiotherapist assesses your mobility and range of movement. They will feel areas of your body and muscles as you perform the movements and then make a diagnosis of your problem and a suitable course of treatment. Your treatment may involve the use of different techniques such as massage, manipulation, mobilisation, heat, hydrotherapy or electrotherapy. The physiotherapist will discuss these with you and their effects.

Some movements and manipulations involve applying direct and controlled pressure to the body. It is perfectly normal to hear a crack or pop in the joints as these manipulations take place. Gas bubbles in the fluid of our joints pop with certain movement and this is perfectly normal.

People experience different sensations during and after treatment. These range from pain relief to muscle soreness. People have also felt a tiredness or relaxation from therapy with others experiencing headaches or emotional changes. These effects, however disruptive to your usual state, are a sign of the body responding to treatment. If you have any concerns discuss them with your practitioner.

Treatment times vary and your first appointment will usually take a little longer while the physiotherapist assesses your condition. Expect your first session to last about an hour. Follow-up sessions last on average about 30 minutes but this can vary depending on what techniques your therapist needs to use.

Cost, as with many private treatments, can vary so be sure to check with your local practice before making an appointment. Expect your first appointment to cost £30 - £60 with follow-ups costing an average of £30. Most medical insurance policies will cover physiotherapy but check with your insurer to see if you are covered.

The number of sessions required involves many factors including the time you've suffered with the problem, its severity and its nature. Your physiotherapist will discuss this during your first appointment and adjustments will be made to your treatment time during its progress. Expect to attend up to six appointments.

Physiotherapy is recognised throughout the world as an effective and safe therapy for symptoms of pain, weakness, stiffness and loss of movement. Successful treatment of back and neck pain, arthritic pain, migraines and repetitive strain injuries is well-known.

It has also been proven to help with neurological conditions such as strokes, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. Consult your GP if you feel your condition might benefit from the therapy.