Physiotherapy uses a variety of techniques to help muscles and joints work to their full potential. It can help repair damage by speeding up the healing process and reducing pain and stiffness. Physiotherapy also has an important role in rehabilitation, for example, helping people who have had strokes to relearn basic movements. Physiotherapy advice can help prevent problems returning or even happening in the first place.

Physiotherapy can help virtually any condition that affects muscles or nerves including:

• painful conditions such as arthritis
• back and neck pain
• problems affecting children such a cerebral palsy
• pregnancy related symptoms such as stress incontinence
• upper limb work-related problems eg repetitive strain injury
• asthma and other breathing difficulties
• sports injuries
• strokes and other neurological problems
• symptoms of stress and anxiety.

Treatments include:

• exercise programmes
• manipulation and mobilisation
• electrotherapy eg ultrasound
• acupuncture
• hydrotherapy - exercise in water
• massage

Formal training in physiotherapy currently takes 4 years. Formally qualified practitioners are entitled to call themselves chartered physiotherapists and carry the qualifications of MCSP (member of the chartered society of physiotherapists) and SRP (state registered physiotherapist).

Local Practitioners: