What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is the branch of medicine dealing with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of movement disorders and body functions. It is used to restore, improve and maintain maximum physical fitness in patients, regardless of age. Physiotherapists work with people suffering from a variety of conditions, such as sports injuries, neurological diseases, orthopaedic problems, cardiovascular conditions, as well as patients after surgical operations.
Types of physiotherapy
- Physiotherapy encompasses a wide variety of therapeutic methods and techniques that are tailored to the individual needs of patients. The main types of physiotherapy include:
- Kinesitherapy: Movement therapy that involves specific physical exercises to improve muscle strength, flexibility, coordination and endurance.
- Physical therapy: The use of physical agents such as electric currents, magnetic fields, ultrasound, laser light or heat and cold therapy to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and accelerate the healing process.
- Therapeutic massage: Various massage techniques that help to relax muscles, improve blood circulation, reduce stress and pain and speed up the recovery process.
- Hydrotherapy: water therapy that uses the properties of water to aid rehabilitation, especially for patients with orthopaedic, rheumatological and neurological problems.
- Manual therapy: techniques used by physiotherapists to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal disorders through manipulation and mobilisation of joints and soft tissues.
- Ergotherapy: focuses on restoring patients' ability to perform everyday activities such as dressing, eating or working, through functional training and environmental adaptation.
When is physiotherapy needed?
Physiotherapy is essential in many health situations. Here are some examples of when it may be necessary:
- After injury and surgery: Helps to return to full fitness after fractures, sprains, orthopaedic operations or surgery.
- In chronic diseases: Supports patients with diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, diabetes, asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- For back and joint pain: Treats back pain, arthritis, arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions.
- In cardiac disorders: Cardiac rehabilitation helps patients after a heart attack, cardiac surgery and with heart disease to improve their physical condition and quality of life.
- In neurological problems: Helps patients with stroke, spinal cord injuries, neuropathies and other neurological conditions to restore motor function and improve independence.
Effectiveness of physiotherapy
The effectiveness of physiotherapy depends on many factors, such as the type of condition, the individual characteristics of the patient, regularity and commitment to therapy, and the experience and skills of the physiotherapist. Research confirms that physiotherapy can significantly improve patients' function, reduce pain, increase mobility and quality of life.
Physiotherapy costs
The cost of physiotherapy can vary depending on a number of factors, such as where you live, the type of therapy, the length of the session and the qualifications of the physiotherapist. In Poland, a visit to a physiotherapist in a private practice can cost between PLN 50 and PLN 200 per session, depending on the city and the reputation of the specialist. However, it is worth remembering that in many cases physiotherapy can be reimbursed by the National Health Fund (NHF), which significantly reduces the cost for the patient. In order to benefit from reimbursement, the patient must have a referral from a doctor and go to a medical facility that has a contract with the NHF.
Humanising physiotherapy: An individual approach to the patient
Humanising physiotherapy is about an approach that puts the patient at the centre. An individualised approach to the patient includes understanding their unique needs, concerns and expectations. Physiotherapists not only work on the physical aspects of health, but also take into account the emotional and psychological needs of the patient. As a result, patients feel more involved in the treatment process and are more cooperative.
Emotional and psychological support in physiotherapy
Emotional and psychological support is a key element in the humanisation of physiotherapy. Physiotherapists often act not only as therapists, but also as counsellors and mentors, helping patients cope with the difficulties of rehabilitation. Through empathy, patience and understanding, physiotherapists can significantly improve patient comfort and motivation, resulting in better therapeutic outcomes.
Physiotherapy is a key part of modern medicine, helping patients to recover and maintain their fitness. Through a variety of methods and techniques, physiotherapists can effectively treat a wide range of conditions, improving patients' quality of life. It is worth remembering to visit a physiotherapist regularly and to follow their recommendations in order to achieve the best therapeutic results.