30 Jan 2021
Physiotherapy 101
Special thanks to our partner, Heartland Rehab for co-creating this article with us.
What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is the treatment of injuries and diseases through movement, exercise, hands-on treatment, and modification of bio-psychosocial factors. Physiotherapists use a variety of treatment to restore function and movement, such as manual therapy, electro-physical modalities, targeted exercise, and education. These help to alleviate pain, regain normal range of movement and strengthen muscles. With a thorough assessment, diagnosis and treatment, the main goal of physiotherapy is to get the client back to doing what they love without pain or restriction.
Is Physiotherapy safe?
Yes! Physiotherapy is 100% safe and evidenced-based. Physiotherapy is also recognised as a government healthcare provider under Allied Health sector in MOH. All practising physiotherapists must be registered and licensed under the Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC).
As qualified healthcare professionals, physiotherapists are well-equipped to triage patients to determine if they are safe to proceed with physiotherapy treatment, or if they require referral to other medical professionals such as general practitioners, surgeons, occupational therapists and so on. Physiotherapists are also qualified to understand and interpret investigation results for x-ray, ultrasound and MRI.
Does Physiotherapy Hurt?
Physiotherapy sessions should not be painful. Most physiotherapy treatments are aimed at providing long-term relief from pain. Sometimes, manual therapy such as massage and joint mobilizations may cause some discomfort when in session. However, this is done with the goal of permanently reducing pain at the end of the whole treatment.
You may also experience some low levels of discomfort when you are exercising, but rest assured that the exercises prescribed are manageable and safe for your rehabilitative needs.
Who Should See a Physiotherapist?
Whether you’re suffering from a disease, medical condition or sporting injury, you should see a physiotherapist if you are experiencing any pain or injury of a musculoskeletal origin (relating to muscles, bones, tendons or ligaments). We also deal with post-operative cases such as ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff surgery and spine surgery.
A physiotherapist can treat many conditions such as
- Joint injuries and sprains
- Muscle strains
- Ligament sprains
- Bone fractures
- Joint and muscle pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Slipped disc
- Nerve injuries
- Scoliosis
- Frozen shoulder
- Parkinson’s disease
- Stroke
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Sports injuries
- Cervicogenic headaches
How Much Does Physiotherapy Cost?
An average outpatient physiotherapy session in Singapore ranges between $120-$250. Each session usually lasts for 45 to 60mins. An average home physiotherapy session in Singapore ranges between $180-$300. Each session usually lasts for 60 mins.
What Can I Expect During a Physiotherapy Session?
During your first session, your physiotherapist will interview you to have a better understanding of your injury and rehabilitation goals. This will be followed by a physical assessment. A detailed explanation and diagnosis will be explained to you before proceeding onto treatment.
The subsequent sessions will follow the same format, with the physiotherapist periodically re-assessing and marking your improvements, so as to progress and advance your exercises accordingly.
How can Calibrate help?
With our verified Physiotherapists, Calibrate seeks to help you better understand your treatment options. You may schedule a 1-1 consultation with us here to be directed to suitable experts for your unique conditions. Or, find a physiotherapist near you.
Alternatively, speak to our Care Team using our website's live chat or contact us directly.
