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Andy Stein

What is a physiotherapist?

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What is a physiotherapist?

Physiotherapists (‘physios’) are qualified and regulated health professionals – who treat people to restore, maintain (and make the most of) mobility, function, and well-being.

They are one of the key Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) in the NHS.

They are trained to help patients at all stages of life – from infant to old age – whose function and movement are impacted by:

  • Chronic disease (like diabetes)
  • Injury
  • Environmental factors
  • Aging
  • Weight issues.
Physiotherapists achieve this by using a variety of methods including:
  • Have the patient do certain exercises
  • Massage muscles
  • Use muscle stimulation devices
  • Manipulate joints
  • Teach certain lifestyle activities like walking, posture etc
  • Stretching muscles.

They take a holistic (whole-body) approach, addressing not only the physical aspects of well-being; but also your emotional, psychological, and social well-being. They work at all stages of healthcare, including prevention, education, intervention, rehabilitation, and treatment.

The goal of a physiotherapist is to improve your quality of life.

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