A Melbourne physiotherapist explains: what exactly do physios do?

A common question that many physiotherapists get asked is, “What exactly does a physio do?”

For many, physiotherapy is a mystery. We don’t blame you – if you don’t have persistent pain or have not suffered a debilitating injury, it’s likely you’ve hardly given the physio a second thought.

But with around 31% of Australians suffering from mobility-affecting musculoskeletal issues, and up to an astonishing 90% of ALL Australians suffering back pain at some point in their lives, it’s very likely that you will indeed be making a visit to a physiotherapist at some stage in the future.

With that in mind, it’s important to understand what a physiotherapist does so you know when to seek their help… and more importantly, understand how they can get you out of pain!

What is physiotherapy?

Where do you go for immediate treatment when you suffer an injury or pain?

Physiotherapist are primary health practitioners which means you can make an appointment immediately.

While many people visit physios after being referred by their GP, a referral is not necessary.
Physiotherapists are clinically trained in being able to diagnose your issue and can refer you for medical imaging such as MRI and x-ray, if necessary.

Physiotherapy is all about helping you recover from injury, and get you out of pain. That means helping with your recovery, restoring function, and in the case of injury or disease, lessening the effects of any dysfunction.

We do this through a whole range of techniques. Here are just a handful of them:

• Physical therapy
• Strength and muscle conditioning
• Education
• Exercise prescription
• Acupuncture and massage
• Ergonomic shoes, wraps and other equipment

What does your local physio treat?

As a physio, no two days are the same. Every person is different, and so are the problems or pain they are experiencing. Here are just some examples of what your physio treats daily.

Musculoskeletal issues

When you talk to your physiotherapist, you’ll probably hear this word being thrown around a lot. But what exactly does it mean?

Like the name suggests, musculoskeletal issues involve your body’s muscles and bones. This can include underlying issues such as arthritis and osteoporosis.

However, musculoskeletal issues are much broader than just that – a lot of individual parts enable us to perform even the simplest functions:

• Tendons
• Ligaments
• Nerves
• Joints
• Discs
• Blood vessels

An injury or underlying problem in just one part of your musculoskeletal system can severely impact your mobility and can cause you pain.

That’s where your local physio comes in. If you suffer from sudden or recurring pain and mobility issues, a physiotherapist can help you by firstly identifying the root cause of your problems.

From there, we prescribe a range of exercises, therapies and tools you can use to restore a full range of movement whether it’s your core muscles all the way down to your fingers.

At Physio AUS, we call this program the Physio AUS System. This unique system – the only one of its kind in Australia – follows a strict three-step process that will uncover:

• The cause of your pain
• The right treatment required
• The frequency and length of your treatment
• How frequently you should see us

Sports-related injuries

Australia is a sport-mad country. We’re certainly not complaining – sport promotes good health and relieves stress, and best of all – it’s fun!

Sometimes however, injuries happen through sport. Exercise without proper warm up or using poor technique can result in a whole range of issues, including:

• Muscle damage
• Joint injuries
• Sprains and strains
• Overuse

Unlike scrapes or bruises, these issues can take a lot longer to resolve. And in some cases, they can significantly hinder your ability to engage in the sports you love.

Fortunately, these are the types of cases that can be solved with the help of a physiotherapist.

Additionally, for the serious athletes reading this, your physio can also prevent any of these potential issues from ever arising through:

• Muscle conditioning
• Prescribing effective special gear and exercises

With the goal to minimise your risk of developing major musculoskeletal issues.

Workplace injuries

Work-related injuries are especially prevalent in fields that involve a lot of physical activity.

You might strain a muscle moving something too heavy for you, or injure yourself on a piece of equipment… you could even straight-up fall!

That said, workplace injuries aren’t exclusive to tradies and manufacturing workers – office workers, too, are susceptible to pain, but for the exact opposite reason…

Pain and injury can arise from repetitive muscle movements such as typing and writing, not to mention the issues caused by poor posture and sitting at a desk (or behind the wheel) for hours on end.

Physiotherapists can help with all kinds of workplace injuries and ailments. From dull neck pains caused by hunching over a computer or aching hips caused by a mostly sedentary lifestyle, your physio can help you get back to feeling (and performing) your best at work!

Searching for a physio in Melbourne?

Talk to Physio AUS today!

No one likes living with muscle and bone problems. Not being able to work as effectively as you should be or enjoy the sports you love can be crushing. Seeing a physiotherapist can help you regain your mobility and get you back to living (and enjoying!) your best lifestyle.

With both online and physical consultations offered, Physio AUS is here to help you out – no matter the distance. Our unique diagnosis process and pioneering physios work with you to reclaim control of your body… and your life!

If you want to get back to living your life, don’t delay; book an appointment now!

• I want to book an online consultation
• I want to book a physical consultation