Physiotherapy, also known as Physical therapy (PT) can be helpful for people of all ages with a wide range of health conditions including problems affecting the bones, joints and soft tissue, brain or nervous system, heart and circulation as well as lungs and breathing. On the other hand, a physiotherapist aids people who are affected by injury, illness or disability through movement and exercise, manual therapy, education and advice.
You might have encountered some widespread misconceptions about physiotherapy and those will be debunked and addressed here.
- Physiotherapy is only for athletes
One prevalent misconception in society is that only sportsmen and women who are aware of their athletic and fitness pursuits are qualified for physiotherapy. Despite the fact that physiotherapy helps athletes, anyone despite of their age, with a number of health conditions, including those without, can benefit from PT.
- Physiotherapy is painful
Although it is natural to be anxious before beginning a treatment plan, the notion that physical therapy is painful is factually incorrect because it should not hurt. It is also critical to understand that physiotherapy comes along with obstacles depending on the health condition. For instance, if you are recovering from an accident, you might experience brief discomfort while receiving treatment, but subsequently, the current issue and its accompanying pain will be cured.
However, as physiotherapists will be cooperating with your comfort levels for the most effective results, it is vital that you communicate with your therapist and let them know if you are experiencing any sort of pain.
- Physiotherapy is specific for injuries
People often believe that they cannot see a physiotherapist since they do not have a specific injury that they are aware of currently, or because they may only have minor pain or discomfort that has been accumulating over time. In reality, it is not necessary for an individual to sustain a specific injury in order to receive physiotherapy as your pain could be caused by lifestyle habits or other activity techniques.
- It is mandatory to have a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist
Physiotherapists are typically regarded as primary healthcare practitioners; therefore, a referral is not always necessary. However, a doctor’s referral is required if you are seeking government-funded physical therapy services or if your health insurance requests one.
- Physiotherapy is not covered by health benefit plans
This myth undoubtedly discourages the majority of people from considering physiotherapy, but many health insurance companies provide the entire cost or a portion of the therapy charges and the NDIS also encompasses physiotherapy services, which could be included in the NDIS plan as core support or capacity-building support. (https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/how-ndis-supports-work-menu/mainstream-and-community-supports/who-responsible-supports-you-need/health)
Don’t let irrational beliefs discourage you from receiving the treatment you require. We are here to assist you in achieving your goals with a combination of good knowledge of biomechanics, exercise principles, expert hands-on treatment and the latest exercise and therapy equipment.
