How does it work? of Physiotherapy

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The aim of physiotherapy is to help the body to work better and heal itself, rather than stopping a particular disease or symptom. In this way, it is similar to some complementary therapies, and is often used alongside acupuncture or pilates, for example.

Physiotherapy is a manual that teaches you how to improve strength and mobility by using your body more effectively. Physiotherapists use a range of techniques, but the most common and traditional practices are:

Massage and manipulation

Massage is suitable for most people receiving physiotherapy treatment. It is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body. Different types of massage are used for different conditions, for example: to improve circulation (the flow of blood around the body); to help fluid to drain from parts of the body more efficiently; to make it easier to move parts of the body; or to relieve pain and help relaxation. Conditions that may be treated with massage include neck problems, headaches and stress.

Exercise and movement

Physiotherapy often includes lots of different types of exercises to help with particular problems. This may include general, gentle exercise such as walking or swimming, or specific exercises to target certain areas of the body. Exercises are designed to strengthen the body and improve your range of movement â€“ they normally need to be repeated daily for a number of weeks. Your physiotherapist will advise you about which exercises to do for your condition and show you how to do them safely.

Electrotherapy

Electrotherapy uses electrical impulses (tiny electrical â€˜shocksâ€™) to stimulate the nervous system. This causes certain muscles to contract (squeeze together) and overrides pain messages to the brain.

There are two types of electrotherapy - transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES). Both reduce pain and help the muscles to repair themselves. Electrotherapy doesnâ€™t hurt â€“ it causes a tingling feeling just under the surface of the skin that helps to mask pain.

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is a form of physiotherapy carried out in water, usually in a warm, shallow swimming pool, or special hydrotherapy bath. The resistance (weight) of the water pushes against your body as you do special exercises while youâ€™re floating. This improves circulation (the flow of blood around your body), relieves pain, and relaxes tension in the muscles.

Alternating hot and cold showers, jet sprays, whirlpool baths and jet massage may also be used. They help to stimulate the nerves and stop pain messages travelling to the brain, as well as making the muscles work more effectively.