The 7 Most Common Physiotherapy Techniques

The first step in any good physical therapist's treatment process is evaluation.

Depending on the origin and nature of the pathology, the professional will choose the technique that best suits the injury for effective treatment.


Physiotherapy


We tell you what each of the 7 most common techniques in physiotherapy are for :

1. Manual therapy

Good for: Injuries of all kinds.

This practical approach separates physical therapists from other health professionals.

Therapists generally employ common tactics such as stretching, massage, and strengthening exercises to re-educate the body in proper movements and mechanisms. Manual therapy is an excellent method of removing movement restrictions and helping patients move better.

2. Cold

Good for: Injuries that involve inflammation and swelling.

Cold can be an important element in treating injuries. By constricting blood vessels after application, cold is an effective way to reduce and even prevent inflammation immediately after an injury. Cold therapy can also make the joint more mobile and enhance manual therapy. Although it is difficult to define the most effective protocol, the application of cold compresses to inflamed areas has been shown to significantly reduce swelling in soft tissue injuries.

3. Heat

Good for: Injuries involving muscle spasms and stiffness.

The application of heat has been shown to decrease pain and increase mobility after some injuries, mainly those that affect soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments. By making the tissue more flexible, the therapist can better stretch the affected area.

While heat is a tool to help the therapist be more effective, it should not be the main focus of a treatment plan.

4. Ultrasound

Good for: Connective tissue injuries.

Ultrasound therapy can help loosen tissues in preparation for manual therapy or exercise. Ultrasound has also been shown to increase the speed of ligament healing in animals, although more studies are needed to show if the same is true for humans.

5. Traction

Good for: Herniated disc.

When we stand up, our spine consistently supports our weight. This is the reason why recovery from back pain is difficult. Traction involves separating the vertebrae to allow more space for nerves and to decrease compression on the disc cartilage. Some research shows that traction may be effective in reducing pain and improving the quality of life in patients with herniated lumbar discs. And since it does not involve undergoing surgery, this can be an effective treatment option for those who cannot afford a long recovery.

6. Functional electrical stimulation

Good for: Restoring muscle strength

Electrical stimulation is a common treatment option to restore muscle function after a traumatic injury. By applying a minor but constant electrical stimulus, therapists can cause contractions of the muscles that might otherwise remain inactive. This leads to reestablishing proper movement and function rather than relying solely on exercise. While functional electrical stimulation cannot restore movement in all cases, research shows that it can speed recovery.

7. Exercise

Ideal for: Staying healthy after treating any type of injury.

Exercise is a strategy to treat and prevent pain and to help patients move better by strengthening specific muscles and addressing

Any muscle imbalance that may exist.

It must also be taken into account that many injuries can arise (or recur) from a sedentary and repetitive lifestyle.

By engaging in any kind of regular exercise, those with even the most sedentary day to day can avoid common and lingering aches and pains.

Remember that this information should not replace the advice of a professional doctor.

When in doubt, always consult a doctor or physical therapist first.

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