What are the different types of physiotherapy?
As a whole, physiotherapy helps people to improve their quality of movement, enhance their strength, and reduce their discomfort. This is not a one-size-fits-all service. Different types of physiotherapy are designed for specific conditions, life stages and recovery goals.
Knowing the major types of physiotherapy will simplify the decision for anyone who has suffered an injury, has a chronic condition, or wants to remain active or independent. Below is a breakdown of the most common and effective types of physiotherapy and the additional services provided by a NDIS physiotherapist or sports physiotherapist, hydrotherapist, etc.Does the Medicare program cover physiotherapy?
What is Physiotherapy?
The definition of physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that restores movement, alleviates pain, and increases overall physical functioning. The treatment comprises of two parts; the clinical evaluation and assessment methods are used in conjunction with clinical interventions and exercise, education and support of recovery and long-term healing and well-being.
Physiotherapists work closely with each patient to build a personalised plan based on their physical characteristics, lifestyle and objectives. While improving short-term pain and disability is the goal, the objective is to build greater movement confidence over time.
Why Do Different Types of Physiotherapy Exist?
Different types of physiotherapy exist to accommodate the differences in the way that everyone's body responds to rehabilitation, their condition and the recovery path to take. For example, a person's response to an injury will vary greatly depending on that person's specific injury and the corresponding rehabilitation offered by a physiotherapist.
As a result, physiotherapists who specialise in certain areas have been trained and equipped with additional knowledge and experience, which enables them to apply more intensive treatments and ultimately produce greater and more successful outcomes for their patients seeking assistance for specific needs.
Types of Physiotherapy
Orthopedic Physiotherapy
This type of physiotherapy focuses on the structure and function of muscles, joints, ligaments and bony surfaces. The following are examples of physiotherapy for the treatment and rehabilitation of back pain, arthritis, fractures and post-surgical rehabilitation with additional benefits:
Benefits:
Less pain in the muscles and joints
Increased Mobility and Flexibility
Improved Daily Movement Function
Most physiotherapy treatment consists of manual therapy, tailored exercise programs to restore movement, and retraining of proper movement patterns.
Sports Physiotherapy (Sport Physio)
The primary focus of sports physiotherapy is to prevent injuries, rehabilitate them, and support the performance of athletes and Active Individuals of all abilities levels.
Benefits:
Faster recovery from sports injuries
Reduced risk of re-injury
Improved efficiency and performance of movement
Sport physio combines mobility work, strength training and sport-specific conditioning to help people safely return to activity.
Neurological Physiotherapy
Neurological physiotherapy works with clients with a wide variety of conditions that impact the nervous system; stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and spinal cord injuries are some examples.
Benefits:
Increased balance and coordination
Greater control of muscles and joints
More independence with daily living activities
Neurological physiotherapy focuses on retraining movement patterns and creating confidence in the performance of all daily tasks.
NDIS Physiotherapy
NDIS physiotherapy is a type of physiotherapy specifically for participants of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). NDIS physiotherapy helps improve the function and independence of participants with permanent or significant disabilities.
Benefits:
Help with daily life tasks
Increase mobility and strength
Long-term goal-oriented therapy
NDIS physiotherapy will be completely tailored to meet the individual client’s goals and often encompasses other health and support professionals working together. Maintaining Mobility, Safety, and Independence.
HCP Physiotherapy (Home Care Package Physiotherapy)
The key to maintaining independence at home lies in encouraging independence through good family support: a comprehensive approach to fulfilling a person's need for mobility, safety, and independence.
Benefits:
Decreased risk of falls and related injuries
Improved Balance, confidence, and ability to be active
Support for age-related issues such as arthritis
A positive mental outlook on life
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy, or water therapy, allows for warm water to reduce the impact and stress on joints and your body during exercise.
Benefits:
Less discomfort during movement
Increased strength and mobility
Ability to participate in hydrotherapy after surgery or injury
Hydrotherapy offers an alternative approach for people who experience discomfort or pain when exercising on land.
Manual Therapy
A form of hands-on therapy using joint mobilisation/stretching and soft tissue manipulation techniques.
Benefits:
Immediate Relief of Pain
Improved Joint Mobility
Reduced Muscle Tension
Manual therapy can be paired with exercise therapy to achieve the greatest long-term benefit.
Pediatric Physiotherapy
provides support to children with physical developmental delays, injuries, or neurological issues through a combination of referral to therapists and therapist contact via visits to the paediatric office or community sports venues.
Benefits:
Improved Coordination and fine motor skills
Support for motor skills development
Increased confidence and capability to achieve goals through movement and activity
Treatment is designed to be fun for children, using play-based activities.
Geriatric Physiotherapy
Looking to improve mobility and cater towards the needs of individuals within the elderly population. Geriatric physiotherapy aims to manage age-related issues and improve the quality of life of individuals who have chronic health problems.
Benefits:
Improved Coordination and Strength
Reduced Risk of Falls
Improved Quality of Life
Each program is tailored to meet the individual’s ability level, medical condition, and pain level.
Methods of Treatment in Common among All Types of Physiotherapy
Although techniques used across all types of physiotherapy may include exercise therapy, manual therapy, hydrotherapy, and education and advice on movement, the ultimate outcome of all physiotherapy methods is to increase mobility, provide for recovery from injuries and prevent further injuries.
Selecting the Right Type of Care with Power Physio
The specific type and methods of physiotherapy that are recommended will vary for every individual. Thus, to ensure optimal care, it is critical that a thorough evaluation of a person’s medical history and condition is made prior to initiating treatment. Testing can also help determine which type of physiotherapy to pursue, whether it be sports physio, NDIS physio, hydrotherapy, or any other specialised physiotherapy service.
By collaborating regularly with a physiotherapist, individuals are assured that their treatment is individualised, safe and effective. Reach out to Power Physio today to determine which type of physio is best suited to you, your body and your goals.