Physiotherapy – An introduction

Physiotherapy or Physical therapy is treatment that helps you improve how your body performs physical movements. physiotherapist provide services that develop, maintain and restore people’s maximum movement and functional ability. Some countries have their own version of the word physiotherapist, such as kinesiologist,but they are also the part of same profession.

Physiotherapy can be a part of a generalized pain management plan or a specific treatment for an injury or health condition. It’s common to need physical therapy after many types of surgeries too, you might also need physical therapy to help prevent injuries before they happen. They help people to maximise their quality of life, looking at physical, psychological, emotional and social wellbeing.

Physiotherapy has ancient roots, with early forms of therapeutic exercise, massage, and hydrotherapy used in civilizations like China, Greece, and Rome. The modern foundation was laid in the 19th century, particularly with Per Henrik Ling’s development of medical gymnastics in Sweden. During World War I and II, physiotherapy became essential for rehabilitating injured soldiers, leading to the formalization of training programs and professional associations. By the mid-20th century, physiotherapy had expanded globally, and today, it is a recognized, evidence-based healthcare profession focused on movement, function, and well-being.

They work in health spheres of promition, preventing, treatment / interventions and rehabilitation.Physiotherapists are qualified and professionally required to :

• Evaluate the findings from the examination / assessment to make clinical judgement regarding patients / clients.
• Undertake a comprehensive Examination / assessment to make clinical judgements regarding patients / clients.
• Formulate a diagnosis, prognosis & plan.
• Provide consultation within their exerpertise and determine when patients / clients needs to be referred to another healthcare professional.
• Implement a physiotherapist intervention / treatment programme.
• Determine the outcome of any interventions / treatment programmes.
• Make recommendations for self management.

Role of the Physiotherapist

• Perform detailed assessments and clinical evaluations.
• Design individualized treatment protocols.
• Educate patients and caregivers on condition management.
• Work in interdisciplinary teams with doctors, occupational therapists, speech therapists, etc.
• Conduct and apply research to clinical practice.
• Promote wellness and preventive strategies.

Clinical Settings and Delivery Models

• Inpatient Rehabilitation Units
• Outpatient Clinics
• Community Health Centers
• Home-Based Physiotherapy
• Telehealth and Remote Care
• Sports Organizations
• Schools and Special Education Centers
• Corporate or Occupational Health Settings

Evidence-Based Practice in Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy emphasizes:

• Integration of best research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values.
• Use of standardized outcome measures (e.g., Berg Balance Scale, Oswestry Disability Index).
• Ongoing professional development and critical appraisal skills.

---

Importance in Modern Healthcare

Physiotherapy contributes significantly to:

• Reducing healthcare costs (via conservative management of conditions).
• Enhancing recovery post-surgery and reducing hospital stays.
• Improving patient independence and reducing caregiver burden.
• Managing chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, obesity, arthritis) through lifestyle-based interventions.