Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List
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What is it used for? of Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy can help to treat and improve a wide range of conditions. It’s non-invasive (doesn’t go into the body), and doesn’t involve the use of drugs. This means it’s suitable for most people, from children to elderly people.
Many physiotherapists work within hospitals. Treatment is carried out in most departments, including orthopaedics, paediatrics, outpatients (day patients), women’s health and mental health. Physiotherapy is also used in intensive care settings, where chest physiotherapy is sometimes needed to keep people breathing if they are unconscious.
Many physiotherapists work in the local community too, so if you need treatment, you may receive it through your school, sports centre or workplace.
Physiotherapy is not just for people with an existing condition - you may also be recommended treatment in any situation where you could be at risk of injury from your occupation or activity – for example back strain or repetitive strain injury (RSI). Physiotherapy teaches you how to use your body safely, for example the correct way to lift and handle heavy objects and the right way to sit or stand. This is important in preventing injuries occurring in the first place, and preventing existing injuries getting worse (such as in repetitive strain injury).









