Welcome to the Conditions and Treatments section, where we explain common issues patients face and how physiotherapy can help. Understanding your condition is the first step toward recovery, and we’ve provided simple explanations and treatment options for seven of the most common conditions treated by physiotherapists.
How Physiotherapy Helps
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in recovery by:
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Assessing your condition and creating personalized treatment plans.
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Teaching safe exercises to restore mobility and strength.
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Using hands-on techniques to relieve pain and improve movement.
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Providing education to prevent future injuries.
If you have any of these conditions or questions about your treatment, consult your physiotherapist for guidance tailored to your needs.
Tendonitis
What is it?
Tendonitis occurs when a tendon (the tissue connecting muscle to bone) becomes inflamed due to overuse or injury. It often affects areas like the shoulders, elbows, wrists, or knees.
Treatment Options:
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Resting and avoiding repetitive movements.
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Ice therapy to reduce swelling.
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Strengthening exercises prescribed by your physiotherapist.
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Gradual return to activity under guidance.
Sciatica
What is it?
Sciatica is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, leading to pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg.
Treatment Options:
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Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to relieve nerve pressure.
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Improving posture and core stability.
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Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension.
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Education on proper lifting techniques to prevent recurrence.
Frozen Shoulder
What is it?
Also called adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, often developing gradually and limiting movement.
Treatment Options:
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Gentle range-of-motion exercises to improve flexibility.
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Heat therapy to loosen stiff tissues.
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Manual therapy techniques like joint mobilization.
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Gradual strengthening exercises once movement improves.
Plantar Fasciitis
What is it?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) at the bottom of your foot, often causing heel pain.
Treatment Options:
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Stretching exercises for the calf and foot.
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Using orthotic insoles to support your arches.
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Massage and manual therapy to release tension.
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Gradual strengthening of foot muscles.
Knee Osteoarthritis
What is it?
Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition where the cartilage in the knee joint wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Treatment Options:
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Low-impact exercises like cycling or swimming to maintain mobility.
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Strengthening muscles around the knee for better joint support.
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Heat or cold therapy for pain management.
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Physiotherapy techniques to improve balance and stability.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
What is it?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling in the hand and fingers.
Treatment Options:
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Wrist splinting, especially at night, to reduce pressure on the nerve.
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Nerve gliding exercises to improve mobility.
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Stretching and strengthening the wrist and forearm muscles.
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Advice on workplace ergonomics to prevent further strain.
Whiplash
What is it?
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by sudden movement, often in car accidents, resulting in stiffness, pain, and reduced neck movement.
Treatment Options:
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Gentle neck stretches and mobility exercises.
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Strengthening exercises for the neck and upper back.
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Heat or ice therapy for pain relief.
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Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension and restore movement.