What’s a Physiotherapist?

Written by Gracia Anggraini (Physiotherapist) 
B.Physio (Hons), APAM

what's a physiotherapist balwyn north
The Purpose of a Physiotherapist is to Assist with your Quality of Life.

Physiotherapists aid in the recovery of injuries as well as the reduction of pain and stiffness to enhance mobility, and the prevent injury. Moreover, they pay attention to your needs in order to create a treatment plan that is unique to your situation. You don’t need a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist because they are first-contact practitioners. Additionally, physios collaborate as part of a team to plan and manage treatment for your injury/condition. 

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Physios are trained to assess, diagnose and treat your condition

Physiotherapists are trained to examine your condition, diagnose the issue, and explain what’s wrong to you. In addition, your therapy will be tailored to your lifestyle, activities, and overall health.

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Common treatment methods used by Physiotherapists:
  • exercise programs to improve mobility and strengthen muscles
  • joint mobilisation to reduce pain and stiffness
  • muscle re-education to improve control
  • airway clearance techniques and breathing exercises
  • soft tissue mobilisation (massage)
  • assistance with use of aids, splints, crutches, walking sticks and wheelchairs to help you move around.
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Physios are highly trained and qualified health professionals

A bachelor’s, master’s, or professional doctorate programme recognised by the Physiotherapy Board of Australia is required to practise physiotherapy. Furthermore, Physiotherapists must fulfil professional criteria. Including recent practise, continuing professional education, criminal background checks, and operate in line with the Board’s Code of Conduct. Also, physiotherapists must be insured by professional indemnity insurance while they are practising. 

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Credit to: 

Australian Physiotherapy Association, “What is a physio?” 2021, https://choose.physio/what-is-physio.

Curious to learn more? Read the following articles: 

What’s an Osteopath? 

What’s Acupuncture? 

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