Langley Physiotherapy, also called physical therapy, is an allied health profession concerned with the management, diagnosis, and treatment of disease processes. Physiotherapists provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitation services to individuals, families, and groups in the medical care community. Physical therapists are often employed in the following fields: orthopedic, pediatrics, geriatrics, neurology, cardiology, gastroenterology, infectious diseases, rheumatology, and occupational or physical therapy. Most physical therapy graduates go on to become registered physical therapists in various specialty areas. Many specialize in a specific field of medicine such as orthopedics, pediatrics, geriatrics, neurology, cardiology, gastroenterology, infectious diseases, and rheumatology. Still others work in the allied healthcare profession in other specialties, including podiatry, anesthesiology, and home health care.
In the United States, physiotherapy is widely recognized as a complimentary medical service and is used interchangeably with chiropractic and physical therapy. In fact, some health insurance companies cover the cost of physiotherapy, though coverage varies among insurance companies and is subject to State authority. As noted above, many States have statutory requirements for receiving professional services (e.g., a consumer reporting agency must verify a referral), and professional liability insurance may be required in certain industries (e.g., asbestos testing).
A physiotherapist can diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions and disorders that affect the musculoskeletal system. Some conditions treated through physiotherapy include low back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, osteoarthritis, and spinal cord injury. Physiotherapists use diagnostic imaging systems such as x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and computerized tomography to identify problems and recommend treatment. In some cases, physiotherapists also use manual methods for performing physiotherapy, such as applying pressure to the muscles of the patient or assisting patients with movements. Physiotherapy is usually used first for mild to moderate muscle pain and then progressively used for more severe conditions or complications. This process may take several months, depending on the seriousness of the condition.
Professional journals have reported that studies have shown that a physical therapist does not perform better than a nurse in treating conditions treated with physical therapy and that many health care providers offer a combination of chiropractic and physiotherapy. The National Association of Orthopedic Surgeons reported in 2021 that a survey of family physicians showed that most were not familiar with techniques for performing physiotherapy and did not routinely offer it to patients. The American Physician’s Association and the American Academy of Physical Therapy suggest that chiropractors become more knowledgeable about their techniques and offer it more often, but more research is still needed to determine its safety and effectiveness. As more information becomes available, this industry will likely undergo more changes.
There are many areas where physiotherapy is used today. It is often used after accidents or traumatic physical conditions. In some cases, it is used before surgery to reduce the amount of pain and discomfort suffered after an injury or surgery. Physical therapists can also prescribe a program of stretching, light exercise and massage therapy to improve the overall health of a patient after an accident or injury. Physiotherapy is also commonly used in the treatment of health problems related to the musculoskeletal system. Some of these problems include spinal cord injuries, degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system, disorders of the endocrine system and diseases of the kidney and gastrointestinal systems.
Although there is evidence of benefits of physiotherapy in the alleviation of pain, a patient should be aware of the limitations of this therapy. For example, it can treat certain conditions only and does not treat or prevent others. It cannot correct or reverse problems caused by the patient’s lifestyle or other factors. It cannot predict which treatments will work and which will not. If you consult a Physiotherapist, make sure to tell them about all the drugs you are taking, including herbal and vitamin supplements.
Opal Physiotherapy and Health Clinic
20226 Fraser Hwy #102, Langley, BC V3A 4E6
(604) 532-7887