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7 Myths About Physiotherapy Debunked

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Every where around the globe, Physiotherapy has been helping people recover, rehabilitate and transform their lives.

Sometimes you find yourself in the middle of discussion groups and people often talk about Physiotherapy and things that aren't true to begin with, leading to you wondering if you should go for physiotherapy or not.

In this blog post, we clear some of the myths in he Physiotherapy and healthcare industry:

7 Myths Debunked

Myth: Surgery is my only option.

Fact: In many cases, physiotherapy has been shown to be as effective as surgery in treating a wide range of conditions – from rotator cuff tears and degenerative disk disease to meniscal tears and some forms of knee osteoarthritis. The study found that people who recently have seen a physiotherapist know this to be true, with 79% believing that physiotherapy can be a viable alternative to surgery.

Myth: Physiotherapy is only for injuries and accidents.

Fact: Physiotherapists do a lot more than just stretch or strengthen weak muscles after an injury or surgery. As experts in the way the body moves, they are skilled at evaluating and diagnosing potential problems before they lead to more serious injuries or disabling conditions. Physiotherapists help people of all ages and abilities reduce pain, improve or restore mobility, and stay active and fit throughout life.

Myth: Physiotherapists only assess and provide stretches, I’ll need to get my “strength” exercises from another professional.

Fact: An assessment provides physiotherapists with a blue print of your injury. It helps physios identify if something is moving too much or too little. If a muscle is weak, strong, tight or just right. From that they are able to design an exercise program for you which may include range of motion (movement exercises), stretching AND strengthening. Physios have a great understanding of the anatomy and movement required for different activities and may need to add, remove, or tweak exercises from your existing program.

Myth: I need an X-Ray/MRI/ultrasound before my physio can treat me.

Fact: Imaging won’t pick up a stiff joint, tight muscles, or weak muscles. Physiotherapists are extremely thorough when screening their patients. At your first visit they take a very detailed medical history and perform specific assessments (based on symptoms). Additional treatments help them determine if you’re on the path to healing or if you require a referral to your doctor for further medical evaluation.

Myth: Physiotherapy is Supposed to Hurt

Fact: Physio can be uncomfortable. There are certain occasions where physio may be extremely uncomfortable (frozen shoulders, fractured elbows) when physiotherapists are trying to gain back very restricted movement. They don’t enjoy “torturing” you. Quite often physio is tolerable and downright comfortable.

Myth: You need a physician's referral

Fact: Not always. Often, people refer themselves for physiotherapy sessions. You don't need a physician's referral for physiotherapy, but if your insurance company requires a physician's consent, then it is advisable to get one. You can always contact Body in Motion.

Myth: Acupuncture does not work

Fact: There is scientific evidence that acupuncture can help with pain, swelling, muscle tone, movement, and inflammation. The phenomenon can be explained with two different views, Eastern vs. Western medicine. Eastern medicine believes disease and illness occurs when energy (Qi), is blocked between acupuncture points. Inserting needles at specific points helps to restore the flow of energy. Western medicine explains the effect of acupuncture through the release of endorphins to settle pain and inflammation. Consult your physio to try acupuncture at your next appointment.