While physio sessions remain popular worldwide for their therapeutic, drug-free pain management of movement disorders and injury, there are still misconceptions about the specialisation. Here, Australian physiotherapist ENG SOO ONG of City Osteopathy & Physiotherapy sets the record straight! He talks about the different elements of physio such as dry needling, ultrasound and shockwave therapy.
Physio – not just for injuries
Physiotherapy is an incredibly versatile medical field that goes well beyond traditional rehabilitation for existing injuries, explains Eng Soo, who has 11 years of experience as a physiotherapist.
While he does treat everything from neck and back pain, joint aches and dislocations to sprains, strains and tears, he says you don’t have to suffer from a sports injury to come in for physio. It can be beneficial in boosting overall health, and improving flexibility and mobility, thus helping with future injury prevention. It can even be a powerful tool in managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis and heart disease.
Physio can also play a major role in restoring pelvic health for both women and men, whether it be urinary incontinence after childbirth, pregnancy pains or erectile dysfunction. What’s more, City Osteopathy & Physiotherapy’s physiotherapists are also specialised in providing paediatric care. They use gentle techniques and exercises to effectively help children without the need for medication.
Physio – more than just exercise
It’s a common misconception that physiotherapists only teach patients exercises to do at home, explains Eng Soo. While corrective exercise is certainly an important component of physiotherapy, it’s not the only physical modalities used.
Here are some of the other treatment methods he and his colleagues might use.
#1 Ultrasound therapy
This treatment uses high-frequency sound waves to promote healing, and reduce pain and inflammation.
#2 Dry needling
Dry needling uses small, thin needles to stimulate trigger points, or areas of muscle tension, to relieve pain and improve mobility. The needles are inserted into the skin and muscle tissue and may be manipulated to release tension and improve blood flow.
#3 Shockwave therapy
This all-natural technique uses sound waves to help break up pain and inflammation, and promote the healing process. Shockwave therapy also stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.
#4 Hands-on manual therapy
This form of treatment involves massage-like manipulations and joint mobilisation to speed up recovery, improve circulation, reduce inflammation and relieve pain, tension and stress.
Of course, the treatments used will depend on the individual’s symptoms, says Eng Soo. First, you’ll need an assessment to best determine the right treatment plan for your needs.
What to expect from a physio session
Your initial physio session begins with a holistic full body assessment that looks at how you move, your posture, your endurance, and any compensatory strategies that may be leading to an injury or preventing recovery, explains Eng Soo. “This helps us diagnose the root cause of your symptoms, and guides our treatment plan to help you move better.”
He says new patients can prepare for the first session by wearing loose clothing or activewear, with the injured area easily accessible.
“Once the issues have been identified, the physiotherapist will tailor a treatment plan accordingly, utilising a range of exercises, and manual therapy techniques like joint mobilisation and dry needling, to enhance your body’s ability to return to healthy movement.”
City Osteopathy & Physiotherapy
Novena: #10-15 Novena Medical Center, 10 Sinaran Drive | 6339 9936
CBD: 80 Robinson Road, #17-03 | 6222 2451
Bukit Timah: #03-02 Guthrie House, 1 Fifth Avenue | 6314 4440
Woodleigh: #02-30 The Woodleigh Mall, 11 Bidadari Park Drive | 6817 0080
cityosteophysio.com
This article first appeared in the June 2023 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
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