What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy or physical therapy is a therapeutichandling that addresses the prevention, treatment, and management of movementdisorders brought by physical conditions and diseases. It promotes best healthand functions of the human body by restoring physical function and performance.Physiotherapy is greatly advisable for people who suffer from degenerativedisorders, the physically challenged, athletes, and those who suffer fromarthritis, rheumatism, and neurological disorders, etc.

Practitioners of Physiotherapy

People who exercise physiotherapy are otherwise knownbeing labeled as either physical therapist (PT) or a physical therapistassistant (PTA) who acts under the direction of the PT. They are well-versed inthe rehabilitative procedures of physical therapy. At times, non-PT healthprofessionals apply the use of physiotherapy in certain medical and healthprocedures.

PTs assess and treat people with conditions thatdecrease their movements or ability to accomplish regular activities. Theysupport patients reestablish their physical function and handle pain andsurgical rehabilitation. They have a thorough knowledge of the human anatomyand the motion of bones, muscles, and nerves. Several PTs handle physicaldisabilities, while others specialize in areas such as pediatrics, orthopedics,geriatrics, sports medicine and physical therapy, neurology, etc.

In many instances, PTs oftentimes consult and workalongside with different professionals. As a health practitioner, a PT canpractice with physicians, dentists, doctors, nurses, and pathologists. A PT canalso work with teachers, social workers, occupational therapists, speechlanguage pathologists and audiologists.

The Demand for Physiotherapy and PTs

There is a high demand for PTs today. Numerous peopleare turning to this rehabilitative treatment as it has been proven to be saferand more effective. The demand should continue to increase as more and moregroup are complaining of disabilities or specific function.

An occupation in physiotherapy would be of great helpif you are a health professional or physical education instructor. Taking up aphysiotherapy degree can add to your credentials in your health profession. Itis a increase of the health sciences and the medical profession, playing anintegral part in the treatment of patients.

Taking Up a Physiotherapy Course

Students currently studying health courses areperfect candidates to study physiotherapy. Even health professionals suchlikedoctors, nurses, and caregivers can acquire and practise physical therapy toadd to their acquisition and expertise. To be employed in hospitals or clinics,you should hold a degree or diploma in physiotherapy in accredited educationalinstitutions or training centers.

Students taking up physical therapy degree studyanatomy, physiology, psychology, pathology, and other subjects related tohealth. They get involved in health care settings to get the experience theyrequire. After graduation, they should take and pass the licensure to becomeregistered PTs.

Finding Physiotherapy Jobs

PTs have numerous career options. You can decide tobecome full-time, self-employed, or a hired therapist. They can find careeropportunities in many public and private institutions. Many full-time PTs areemployed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, offices and clinics ofphysicians and nursing homes. Many others also teach and conduct researchacademic institutions. Part-time PTs can work for professional sports teams,sports facilities, and fitness centers. Self-employed therapists can offerservices to several patients. PTs can establish their solo practice in somepoint of time.

PTs may apply by contacting the human resourcedepartment heads. For occupation guidance or job openings, it is advisable tocontact your public employment service officer.

Physiotherapy Demands in Other Countries

Countries like the United States, Canada,United Kingdom, Australia, and Japan are in need of varied healthprofessionals, PTs included. Countries with a rapidly aging population seem tohave more need for PTs, where the number of cases involving chronic and acuteconditions requires physiotherapy and other therapeutic services.

Thecurrent health condition in Australiaseems to create an increasing demand for physiotherapy in Sydney. It is experiencing a shortage ofexperienced PTs. The demands for physiotherapy in Sydney stress the profession’s growing rolein patient assistant, rehabilitation, and sport medicine. With a generationsuffering early from heart attacks and strokes and the rising number of peopleadmitted to hospitals for varying degrees of physical movement dysfunction, PTsare called to administer health care.