5 Signs That You Should See a Physiotherapist

Although some people believe that seeing a physiotherapist is only necessary for sports-related injuries or recovery after surgery, it’s important to note that physiotherapists can assist with various mobility and flexibility concerns and offer preventive measures for maintaining overall health.

When you visit a physiotherapist, the primary objective is to identify the root cause of your ailment and provide appropriate treatment to facilitate recovery. As every individual has a unique healing process, the physiotherapist will customise your treatment to ensure the most effective results. As no two injuries or types of pain are identical, personalised care is required to address each individual’s unique situation.

But when exactly should you see a physiotherapist? Do you wait until your pain gets worse? No, waiting or delaying treatment for issues related to muscles, ligaments, and joints is not recommended, as this can increase the risk of the condition becoming chronic or permanent. Therefore, seeking a consult or treatment as soon as possible is highly advisable to manage the issue and prevent further complications effectively.

In this article, let’s explore the key indicators that suggest it may be time to make an appointment with a physiotherapist.

1. Limited range of motion

When your joints or limbs cannot move through its full range of motion, performing daily activities or engaging in sports and recreational activities can be difficult. Various factors, including injury, surgery, arthritis, or neurological conditions, can cause this limitation.

For example, if you have a limited range of motion in your shoulder joint, it will be difficult to comb your hair or wear a t-shirt ( causing you to swap it out for button down shirt). Likewise, in the case of a knee injury, the knee joint’s range of motion may be restricted, resulting in difficulty bending or straightening the leg. 

Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment for this condition, as it involves exercises and therapies aimed at improving joint mobility, flexibility, and strength. A physiotherapist can assess your joint mobility and create a customised treatment plan to address your specific limitations and help you regain your range of motion.

2. Pain that persists

If your pain does not go away, even with rest or over-the-counter medication, you should see a physiotherapist. They can help diagnose the cause of your pain and provide treatment to alleviate it.

For example, Achilles tendon pain can sometimes subside with rest but resurface whenever you attempt to resume physical or sporting activities like running. In such cases, a rehabilitation plan from a physiotherapist can be helpful. 

3. Injuries 

If you have recently sustained an injury, such as a sprain, strain, or fracture, a physiotherapist can help you recover by prescribing exercises and therapies to help you regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion. In addition, if your injury was caused by a fall, a physiotherapist can also work with you to improve your balance and coordination to prevent future falls and minimize the risk of further injury.

For example, if you’ve recently fractured your ankle due to a fall, a physiotherapist can help design an exercise program that focuses on improving your balance, proprioception, and coordination. By incorporating exercises like standing on one leg, walking heel-to-toe, and practicing weight shifts, you can improve your balance and reduce your risk of falling again in the future. This can be especially important for older adults, as falls are a common cause of injury and can lead to decreased mobility and quality of life.

4. Sudden onset of pain

 If you wake up with severe neck pain or suddenly experience severe lower back pain that impedes your ability to function, work or sleep, it may be best to seek immediate assessment from a physiotherapist. They can diagnose your condition, suggest ways to alleviate your pain and restore your full function as quickly as possible. Additionally, they may screen you for any indications of underlying serious medical conditions that may necessitate a medical check-up. 

5. Nerve pain

Physiotherapy can be a highly effective treatment for various types of nerve pain, including sciatica, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Brachial Plexus issues, Spondylosis, Spinal stenosis, as well as peripheral nerve injuries like foot drop and wrist drop, and other conditions that may have damaged or irritated the nerves. One of the primary goals of physiotherapy is to improve the mobility, strength, and flexibility of the affected area, which can help to alleviate pressure on the nerves and reduce pain. 

For example, if you are experiencing sciatica, your physiotherapist may prescribe exercises that focus on stretching and strengthening the muscles in your lower back and hips to help take pressure off the sciatic nerve. In addition, physiotherapy can also help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area.

If you’re uncertain whether you should seek the help of a physiotherapist, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor for advice. They can provide guidance on whether physiotherapy would be beneficial for your specific condition. 

At B-Physica, we offer assessment services to determine the extent of your injury or ailment and recommend an appropriate course of action. It’s important not to delay seeking treatment if you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your body, as this could lead to further complications and hinder your recovery. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.