Physical therapy, commonly known as physiotherapy, is a type of therapeutic treatment in which trained and certified medical professionals treat abnormal physical functioning with specially developed equipment and exercise programs. Physiotherapists (PTs) examine and treat the patient's condition, such as an accident, disease, or physical disability. Physical therapy is an effective treatment for a wide range of medical disorders because it helps restore and preserve physical function and mobility. Physical therapists collaborate with other medical teams at rehab facilities, hospitals, sports and fitness centres, schools, and offices.

The following are the most common medical conditions that physical therapists treat:

1. Lymphedema

Excess fluids collect in the lymphatic system and subsequently circulate in the bloodstream, causing swelling. Complete decongestive therapy (CDT) is used by physical therapists to relieve swelling and prevent future fluid buildup. Lymphedema is a progressive condition that can be helped by physiotherapists to regain function and movement. There is currently no cure for lymphedema, however, there are effective treatments with physiotherapy. Many patients with lymphedema benefit from physiotherapy since it is an exercise-based therapy that can reduce swelling and other unpleasant side effects of the condition.

2. Sports Injuries

Sports and Exercise Physiotherapists are involved in the prevention and management of injuries caused by sports and exercise engagement in people of all ages and abilities. The major goal of physiotherapy in injury rehabilitation is to treat and fully rehabilitate an athlete post-injury or post-operation in order to prevent additional injury and facilitate the athlete to get back to sports as soon as feasible. The function of physiotherapy in sports has grown over time. Sports physiotherapists offer a variety of treatments to help people achieve their health goals. They recommend exercise programmes that use strength and cardiovascular training in addition to managing a wide range of ailments and health conditions.

3. Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular dystrophies are a class of muscular illnesses caused by gene mutations. Muscle weakening reduces mobility over time, making daily tasks difficult. Physical therapy aims to increase strength in big muscular groups while also preventing scoliosis and contractures. In people with muscular dystrophy, physical therapy can aid to prevent deformities, promote mobility, and keep muscles strong and flexible. A physical therapist may also deal with patients to modify their posture by guiding them through specific exercises and positions. This therapy is performed to counteract muscle weakening, contractures, and spinal abnormalities.

4. Back and Neck Pain

Neck and back pain are two of the most common complaints that physiotherapists receive. We've all had it, whether it's from work stress, long hours at a desk, or simply having to wake up with it. Physical therapy helps to reduce pain and increase mobility. A physiotherapist may use some of the following physiotherapy techniques:

• specific spinal mobilisations
• release tight muscles
• A bespoke exercise program may include mobilizing exercises for the back and nerves, as well as pilates and strengthening any weak muscles.
• Acupuncture
• Taping

5. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a chronic illness that causes bone mass and density loss, increasing the risk of fractures. Physiotherapy can aid in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Over the course of weeks and months, a physical therapist will design a personalised exercise programme to strengthen bones and muscles. This improves balance and reduces the chances of falling. Physical therapy can also help in recovering from an osteoporosis-related accident and improve the quality of life.

6. Ankle Sprain

Acute ankle injury is one of the most common lower limb injuries, affecting mostly physically active people. Ankle sprains are most common in women, youngsters, and athletes who participate in both indoor and outdoor activities. Depending on the degree of the ankle sprain, the physiotherapist creates a treatment plan to aid in the healing process and advises on when it is safe to resume activities and sports. Stretching and strengthening activities must be done on a regular basis. Exercises will restore movement while also maintaining proper ankle strength and stability.

The Bottom Line

Physiotherapists are required in all aspects of treatment to aid the healing process of patients. When someone is injured, ill, or disabled, physiotherapy can help restore movement and function. It can also assist to lower the risk of future injury or disease.

Owing to the benefits and importance of physiotherapy in the healthcare industry, the demand for trained physiotherapists have grown in leaps and bounds in the past decade or so. Catering to that very need, PEWS College of Physiotherapy & Medical Sciences offers comprehensive courses in physiotherapy in Northeast India, based out of Guwahati, Assam. It is affiliated with the Government of Assam's Srimanta Sankaradeva University of Health Sciences.

Learn more about the courses and admissions offered by PEWS by visiting https://cpmsc.com.