There is a common misconception that physiotherapy is only required when you experience an injury or undergo surgery. It is agreed that when we are living with damage to our bodies that restrict the movement of muscles and ligaments, physiotherapy aims to restore our mobility. However, the amount of time you may need physiotherapy is not predetermined — it may take a few months or maybe required indefinitely. 

When talking about long-term physiotherapy, there are two situations in which it may be needed: because of a chronic condition and maintenance physiotherapy.

Chronic Condition and Physiotherapy 

Physiotherapy can be a long-term solution for chronic conditions such as diabetes and arthritis. Many people don’t consider physiotherapy when thinking about these types of conditions, but it can be very effective if patients are not responding to other treatments. Physiotherapy can help manage diabetes through weight management and cholesterol. For patients with arthritis, physiotherapy can help with the movement of muscles and joints. 

Maintenance Physiotherapy 

Maintenance physiotherapy is for injuries, such as ankle sprains, that have not fully healed. Many times, it can make a considerable difference with historical injuries, which may have appeared to be healed, but have gotten worse over time. 

Alternatively, maintenance therapy can also be helpful for severe injuries that may require an adjustment from time to time. Patients that have been involved in car crashes with injuries such as whiplash and amputation can benefit from maintenance therapy. 

Am I a Candidate for Long-Term Physiotherapy?

To find out whether you are a candidate for physiotherapy, your physiotherapist will conduct an assessment. At your first visit, you should have appropriate clothing, exposing the painful/injured area of your body. Make sure to have all of your health history regarding your injuries with you (i.e. test results, referrals). 

Your physiotherapist will then assess your injury based on your answers to a series of questions and your health history to diagnose your condition and work with you to devise a treatment plan. 

Treatment may include, but is not limited to: 

• Active and Passive Stretching 
• Massaging 
• Heat and Cold Therapy 
• Acupuncture 
• Balance Training 

Related: Ways that Physiotherapy can help with concussion Recovery

During your sessions, your physiotherapist will not only treat your condition/injury, but they will also educate you on preventative measures, measure your progress regularly, and advance your program as you improve. 

While physiotherapy can be a great short-term solution, that is not the case for everyone. Sometimes, it is required for a longer period with no definitive end date. It is important for you to talk with your healthcare provider in order to understand your condition/injuries, so you can decide together what your road to recovery will look like. 

Whether you are looking for a short-term or a long-term physiotherapy solution, Pro Fusion Rehab, and the experience and expertise to work with you through any process. Contact us to begin your journey to recovery.