Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a form of physical therapy that can improve your mobility and quality of life. The aim of physiotherapy is usually to help you gain as much movement and physical independence as possible.

Physiotherapy treatments used to improve your activities in daily living include: exercise programs, soft tissue massage and manual therapies. Your physiotherapist can also provide advice on appropriate walking aids such as frames and footwear.

Conditions commonly treated by physiotherapy include:

• Musculoskeletal conditions – such as back pain, strains, arthritis and postural problems
• Neurological conditions – such as stroke, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s Disease and Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Cardiorespiratory conditions – such as emphysema, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and chronic bronchitis, and to offer rehabilitation after cardio-pulmonary surgery, or
• Incontinence (the inability to control your bladder or bowel).

You can find physiotherapists in hospitals, private practice, community centres and aged care homes. You won’t need a doctor’s referral, but your doctor may recommend a physiotherapist as part of a rehabilitation plan. You can find out more about physiotherapy from the Australian Physiotherapy Association website or call them on 03 9534 9400.