Busting the Myths: Unweaving Fact from Fiction in Physiotherapy

 When you say to someone that you’re considering taking physiotherapy sessions for your senior, no doubt you’d be dumped with several opinions. But let’s take a moment to decode myths and facts from all that you hear.

Physiotherapy is a crucial component of geriatric rehabilitation. It is provided by a qualified therapist for different conditions such as joint pain, arthritis, lower back pain, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, balance disorders, gait disorders, stroke, and recovery from surgery and falls in seniors. There are sparkling benefits physiotherapy provides for seniors such as

-          Improved balance, flexibility, muscle strength, and posture

-          Promoted independence

-          Helps manage pain and symptoms of disease condition

-          Enhanced recovery from surgery, injury, and illness

-          Prevention of falls, cognitive decline, re-hospitalisation 

The space below is going to fill you with knowledge and break the facts from myths. 

Myth #1: Physiotherapy is the modern days' massage therapy

Physiotherapy and massage are two completely distinct things. Massage is a technique for relaxation whereas in physiotherapy physical impairments and pain are treated. Physiotherapy employs a comprehensive assessment, physical examination, diagnosis, and treatment plan. Unlike in massage, a physiotherapist analyzes the root cause of the pain or discomfort and suggests practical ways to manage health and prevent recurrence. 

Myth #2: Physiotherapy is only useful for pain management

Physiotherapy is a rehabilitation therapy that can treat many conditions such as arthritis, joint stiffness, neurological problems, muscle pain, flexibility and mobility issues, gait problems, and falls in seniors. Physiotherapists are qualified experts who treat a diverse range of health conditions and their expertise is not restricted to pain. 

Myth #3: Physiotherapy means exercising

Exercises are only one of the components of the physiotherapy intervention plan. There are several other treatments a physiotherapist may render such as manual therapy (deep tissue massage, joint mobilization, stretching, trigger point release), taping, electrotherapy (shockwave therapy, ultrasound therapy), and many more. 

Myth #4: Physiotherapy is a branch of Orthopaedics

Physiotherapy is used to treat different health conditions like neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases, and to improve the overall health of individuals. It is also used for surgical recovery. Orthopedics, on the other hand, is a medical specialty that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, ligaments, joints, tendons, muscles, and nerves. 

Myth #5: Physiotherapy can be done on our own

Physiotherapists are specialists in providing therapy to treat different conditions of health. They have in-depth knowledge of the body’s anatomy and different systems of the body. A physiotherapist will study several treatment procedures and curate a research-backed plan. They also assist the seniors with how exercises should be performed. Certain treatment plans of physiotherapy like manual therapy or electrotherapy require professional assistance. Carrying out physiotherapy exercises on your own without consulting a therapist can pave the path to injuries or worsen the condition. 

Myth #6: Physiotherapy causes pain

Physiotherapy is a treatment option that many individuals consider to mitigate pain and discomfort, both short-term and long-term. With physiotherapy, the bones and muscles become stronger and more flexible thereby reducing pain. Hence, it never causes pain but only treats the pain. 

Myth #7: Physiotherapy is an outdated treatment method

This myth springs from the fact that physiotherapy has been used since ancient times. Its roots may date back to as far as 2000 years but it sure is still relevant. Several technology-based interventions have been introduced and used in treating several conditions. Due to the multitude of benefits, it portrays to health, it holds prominent roles in the treatment plan. 

Myth #8: Physiotherapy sessions are never-ending sessions

The number of sessions one may require depends on different factors like medical history, current diagnosis, lifestyle, and psychological factors. The treatment plan that the physiotherapist designs includes identification (clinical reasoning and diagnosis), method of treatment (electrotherapy manual therapy, or exercise therapy), restoration of lifestyle (with home-based exercise program and techniques for self-management), and avoiding recurrences. Hence, based on different factors the physiotherapy sessions could last for a few days or a few months. 

Myth #9: Pain remises after physiotherapy

Adherence is an important factor in physiotherapy. Most individuals become non-compliant with the therapists’ advice after sessions. It is crucial to have regular follow-ups and follow the regimen advised by the physiotherapist to prevent the recurrence of pain. Apart from exercises, lifestyle modifications advised by the therapist should also be regularly practiced. 

Myth #10: Physiotherapy treatment cannot be administered at home

Athulya Home Care proudly breaks this myth by providing physiotherapy at home. Experts provide services such as gait training, balance training, joint mobilization, pain management, stroke care, fitting of orthosis, taping, mobility exercises, hot and cold therapy, and exercises for joint pain. 

Physiotherapists hold a blend of knowledge of biomechanics, anatomy, exercise principles, the latest equipment for treatment, therapy methods, and hands-on training. The myths around physiotherapy are many and it is critically important to break through and understand the facts behind them while considering physiotherapy for senior citizens. Athulya Home Healthcare’s team of physiotherapists strives to fuel the hike up of seniors’ health and recovery by providing a comprehensive, evidence-based approach in the comfort of their homes.