When it comes to physiotherapy, many people are confused as to what it actually entails.
There is also a lot of confusion regarding the difference between physiotherapists and general physicians, which can make it difficult to decide which one to visit when the need arises. While both work in the medical sphere, physiotherapy is a specialized field that utilizes physical exercises and therapies to help patients recover from injuries.
And there are several situations where visiting a physiotherapist might be a better decision than a doctor, some of which are mentioned here.
Five Reasons To Visit A Physiotherapist Instead Of A General Physician
1. When Injuries Affecting Movement Require Diagnosis
While both general physicians and physiotherapists work in the same field, both have different approaches to diagnosis. General physicians specialize in diagnosing medical issues, whereas physiotherapists focus on problems related to movement.
This means that in case of injuries, it is better to visit a physiotherapist who can identify the problem more effectively. If you’re dealing with such a situation, make an appointment with the best physiotherapist in Oakville right now.
2. For Treatment Of Musculoskeletal Injuries
Both general physicians and physiotherapists have the skills required for treating injuries, though they utilize different treatment methods. Physiotherapists are better equipped to handle situations involving musculoskeletal injuries than doctors.
This is because their treatment relies less on medications and more on manual therapy. Also, physiotherapists can educate patients about the causes, prevention, and solutions to such health issues.
3. When The Aim Is To Improve Mobility
In certain situations, your range of motion can become highly restricted, making everyday life difficult. A general physician may not be able to help in such a situation, as medications can only provide pain relief.
On the other hand, physiotherapists specialize in this field and can help patients overcome such problems through regular exercise.
4. If Taking Pills Is Not An Option
Many patients wish to avoid taking pills since certain medications can have unpleasant side effects. Also, the prescribed medications may not be suitable for everyone. In such cases, visiting a physiotherapist might be helpful since they generally focus on forms of treatment rather than prescribing pills.
Thus, by regularly performing the exercises prescribed by the physiotherapist, patients can regain their health in a safer manner.
5. When An Exercise Plan Is Required
Recovering from injuries or severe ailments often requires regular exercise, in which case a physiotherapist might be the best person to visit. They can help develop a personalized exercise plan that is suited to your requirements and can accelerate the recovery process.
A general physician may recommend regular exercise but, in most cases, will not be able to help create a customized plan for the same.
Conclusion
While physiotherapists and physicians specialize in different fields, in most cases, both are complementary to each other. In case patients are suffering from problems requiring medication, a physiotherapist may refer them to a doctor. On the other hand, in case of a problem requiring physical therapy, the physician may refer you to a physiotherapist.
And if that is the case, starting the therapy process as soon as possible is vital, so contact a reliable physiotherapist today.