Where to Get Help When You Are in Pain

All qulified and registered therapists have a deep knowlege of the way we move, and some specialise, e.g. back pain specialists, cancer specialists, etc. They have great knowledge of anatomy & physiology. Here is a list of your options:

Physiotherapists:

Have a good knowledge of kinesiology & biomechanics, often giving exercise programs to improve mobility, muscle balance and re-strengthen muscles. They can practice manipulation & mobilisation to reduce pain and stiffnessbut cannot prescribe or administer medicine or surgery. They cannot currently order MRI, scans or X-rays but they can tell you when one is needed & may be able to organise them for you. They may be able to administer electrotherapy (such as ultrasound), acupuncture, hydrotheraphy or sports massage. Because they focus on they reason for the injury, they can prevent reoccurence when you are healed by rebalancing any muscle strength and alignment that may have lead to the initial pain. You have to be pro-active in your recovery.

Chiropractors:

Best known for manipulations of the spine and neck joints to cure back and neck injuries. Most chiropractors treat the extremities as well. Manipulations involve pressure on the bones and joints, characterised by clicks and crunches.

Sports Therapists:

Are physiotherapists for the musculoskeletal system - ligaments, joints, bones, tendons, muscles and nerves. They don’t breathing difficulties or bed rest issues.

They may be wholistic (treat the whole body) or specialised.

Osteopaths:

Differ from chiropractors because they press on the soft tissue (muscles, ligaments and tendons).

Podiatrists:

Treat gait and posture problems as well as attending to more commonly thought of foot problems.

Sports Masseurs:

Knead and stroke muscles with their hands to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. Some masseurs are advanced enough to assess and even treat the nervous system.

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Some treatments offered by physiotherapists:

Cryotherapy:

Ice or cold treatment, used in the initial injury phase to relieve pain and swelling by reducing blood flow and nerve conduction.

Deep-Tissue Massage:

Rigorous stroking and kneading of muscles and connective tissues to remove adhesions in the collagen and fascia. Can also be used to help the nervous system.

Interferential Treatment:

AKA e-stim

nds low voltage electrical impulses to the injured area via electrodes.

Iontophoresis:

Non-invasive method of delivering healing medication (often an anti-inflammatory), using an electrode and an absorbent pad.

Ultrasound:

The use of sound-waves to produce a deep heat to warm muscle tissues. A wand attached to the ultrasound machine.