A Chartered Physiotherapist treats injury and disease by correcting and improving the body’s own natural healing mechanisms, without the use of drugs or medication unless prescribed by a doctor.
- Spinal Problems – including prolapsed discs, degeneration, sciatica, lumbago, stiff/painful neck and referred arm and leg pains.
- Joint Problems – arthritis, injury, pain/swelling/stiffness in joints such as shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees and ankles.
- Injuries – to muscles, ligament, cartilage and tendon problems; and to work related conditions such as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI).
- After Surgery – rehabilitation after orthopaedic surgery e.g. hip and knee replacements or general physiotherapy after general surgery.
- Fractures treatment to increase the healing rate and to gain full function once the bones have healed.
- Abdominal Problems such as spastic colon, colitis and irritable bowel syndrome.
- Gynaecological Conditions – including stress incontinence, pelvic inflammation and post surgery rehabilitation.
- Obstetrics – including ante and post-natal classes/exercise/relaxation/advice and treatment for backpain after pregnancy.
- Sports Injuries – strains, sprains and bruising to soft tissue.
- Chest Conditions – both medical and surgical, including hayfever, asthma and sinusitis, pneumonia, cystic fibrosis, emphysema, bronchitis and bronchiectasis.
- Neurological Conditions – such as strokes, head injuries, nerve injuries, multiple sclerosis, shingles, cerebral palsy, and ME.
- Paediatrics – for childhood conditions including postural and walking problems.
- Circulatory Problems – such as Raynauds disease, wounds, ulcers cardiac rehabilitation.
- Miscellaneous – such as stress-related conditions including hyper-ventilation, certain skin conditions and burns.
It is always advisable to seek treatment as soon as possible. Early treatment can mean a quick recovery with less time off work.
The modern Chartered Physiotherapist uses a wide range of skills includes manipulation, mobilisation, massage and exercises, often aided by the use of sophisticated electronic and electrical apparatus – all designed to help in the relief of pain and to promote healing. Preventative measures are very important in physiotherapy. The Chartered Physiotherapist will spend time teaching the patient how to avoid a recurrence of his/her problem.
Chartered Physiotherapists undertake a thorough assessment of each problem. This will involve a thorough examination, together with an understanding of your work, rest and recreational activities.
This full assessment may identify a problem which is situated some distance from where the pain is felt. It also ensures that the diagnosis and treatment will relate to you and your whole lifestyle. After full consultation with you and, where appropriate, with your doctor, the Chartered Physiotherapist will decide on the best form of treatment.
The methods used by “alternative” therapies differ widely, but most of the theories and principles which govern them are included as standard practice in Chartered Physiotherapy, which is the “orthodox alternative”.
Physiotherapy is a medically recognised treatment with physiotherapists working closely with GPs and consultants.
Many Chartered Physiotherapists have developed additional skills in areas such as acupuncture, reflex therapy, aqua-aerobic water fitness programmes, Alexander technique, aromatherapy, cranio-sacral therapy and Shiatsu.
Only members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, (known as “Chartered Physiotherapists”) and having the designatory letters “MCSP” or “FCSP” after their name, and State Registered Physiotherapists (“SRP”), have undergone the required training and passed the necessary state recognised examinations to enable them to practice within the NHS or in Private Practice.
Yes. Anyone can receive private treatment from a Chartered Physiotherapists in private practice. Most private medical insurance schemes provide cover for physiotherapy only when it is given by a Chartered and/or State Registered Physiotherapist.
No, not necessarily. You may consult a Chartered Physiotherapist without a doctor’s referral, but contact will usually be maintained between your GP and Physiotherapist, Chartered Physiotherapists work in close co-operation with GPs in much the same way as consultants do, and this relationship is for the ultimate benefit of you, the patient.
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