What is Orthopaedic Physiotherapy?
This is the branch of physiotherapy concerned with the treatment of injuries or disorders of the skeletal system and associated muscles, joints and ligaments Orthopaedic Physiotherapy also includes pre and post operative rehabilitation of hip, shoulder and knee. Orthopaedic Physiotherapy is a scientific approach to treatment following Evidence Based Guidelines. Initially the physiotherapist will carry out a clinical assessment and this is followed by appropriate treatments. It is important to get to the source of the problem and prevent a re-occurrence. The treatment goal of the orthopaedic physiotherapist is to provide pain relief, increase joint range, improve strength and flexibility and restore the patient to full function
Orthopaedic Conditions treated by us at the physio-company include:
• Ligament Strain, Sprain or tear
• Fracture Rehabilitation
• Inflammation of tendons or Bursa
• Osteo -Arthritis
• Rheumatoid - Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Anklyosing Spondylitis
• Scoliosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Spondylolysis
• Surgical Rehabilitation of Hip,Shoulder,Knee and Foot/Ankle
Pre-operative physiotherapy can help to strengthen a patient physically and cardiovasculary. In the case of a joint physiotherapy can help maintain and improve range of movement prior to surgery and educate the client on their post operative rehabilitation. This will facilitate the client to recover from surgery at a faster rate. Following orthopaedic surgery our team of physiotherapists will liaise closely with your surgeon to follow the recommended clinical protocol.
Physio treatments of orthopaedic conditions can include the following:
Manual therapy: This is a carefully graded system of moving the joints to reduce pain and restore normal mobility of the joints. It includes mobilisation, manipulation and other related techniques.
Massage-Techniques: vary from relaxing light pressure massage to deep friction massage to breakdown scar tissue in muscle or ligaments.
Ultrasound Therapy: An electrical machine which produces ultrasonic waves which are transmitted into the affected area using conducting gel. This in turn causes a micro-massage effect which promotes circulation, reduces pain and increases regenerative powers of tissues and helps muscle relaxation. It is very helpful in the treatment of soft tissue injuries.
Interferential Therapy: This is an electrical current delivered to the injured part via 2 or 4 electrodes. It sends two interfering currents into the body part which feels to the patient like pins and needles. It can be used to relieve pain. reduce swelling and optimise the healing process.
Neuromuscular Stimulation: An electrical machine with variable currents which is applied using electrodes to strengthen very weak muscles. This is very useful following knee surgery to strengthen the muscles that support the knee. Portable version are now available to rent or buy.
Dry-needling: This is a western medical technique and involves the insertion of fine needles into dysfunctional muscles. Dry needling works by changing the way your body feels pain and by helping the body heal trigger points. Myofascial trigger points are tender nodules within taut bands of muscle.There are electrical and biochemical changes associated with dry needling that assist in the healing process.
Acupuncture: This is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine. It involves the insertion of fine needles. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions. In the area of orthopaedic physiotherapy it is used to reduce pain and normalise movement. It compliments other physiotherapy treatments.
Taping for joint support/alignment. This will ease pain and facilitate normal movement.
Programme of Rehabilitation Exercises: Home Exercises are scientifically designed to help your posture, improve the mobility of your spine and joints ,stabilise and strengthen the muscles that support your bones .This will be taylor made and graded so you will reach your full potential. This is a critical part of your journey to return to full health.
The earlier injuries or disorders are addressed the quicker your recovery will be. We have a wide range of treatment methods used to alleviate pain and help recovery. If you have any issues you need treating then contact us here.