Physiotherapy is one of the most variable practices in medicine and as such, the daily routine of the therapist is changed dependent on the patient’s condition. To better understand the typical routine it is important to understand the role of a physiotherapist which can be defined as follows –
To administer treatments to patients suffering from a range of physical ailments and disorders that impairs the ease of everyday life. Physiotherapy can be used to combat the effects of many conditions including –
· Cystic Fibrosis
· Multiple sclerosis
· Back problems including Sciatica and scoliosis
· Arthritic conditions
· Muscular tears and injuries
The treatments enacted help the patient move better and feel less pain from their inflictions and is often vital as part of a process of rehabilitation. Physical therapy has also become very popular as a tool in maintaining the fitness level and muscular condition of athletes.
Typical Tasks
As mentioned previously this discipline is varied depending on the patient and condition; however there are key processes that are involved with the role including –
Assessment – Upon receiving a patient the therapist will be required to assess their abilities and limitations. Once these are highlighted the therapist will plan out a course of treatments and exercises to rectify the condition.
Administering treatments– A physical therapists main role is to use a number of techniques to improve the muscles that are affected by the patient’s condition. The key to these treatments is the manipulation of the muscles through massages, stretches, movement exercises and breathing techniques.
Rehabilitation -Those suffering from severe injuries or recovering from serious operations will often need to undergo a course of rehabilitation to aid their recovery. A therapist is vital in rehabilitation and carries out tasks such as teaching people to walk again.
Equipment allocation– Due to recent technological advancements in the field professionals have begun to use many aids to help hasten their patients recovery. Therapists now make use of Hydrotherapy, treadmills, temperature controlled devices and electrotherapy to help improve patients movement.
Education– A large proportion of the role now involves liaising with the patient and their family/support group and explaining the techniques that they can carry out on their own to improve the condition. It is also common for physiotherapists to hold community classes espousing the benefits of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise.
Administration– A vital part of any therapist’s job is to maintain succinct records on their patient’s progression. They will also be required to meet with other significant professionals of the patient’s treatment team to ascertain the best course for further treatments.
