How a physio can improve your health

Traditionally, physiotherapists are known for treating aches and pains, however my personal philosophy is to treat the cause and not the symptom. The holistic treatments can include traditional physiotherapy and incorporate clinical Pilates, exercise rehabilitation, massage and specialist classes all of which cater to mums and bubs, children and teens, adults, seniors, athletes as well as for those recovering from accidents, surgeries or chronic injuries.

Many people are not aware of the breadth of a physio’s skills. Here’s six ways your physio can improve your physical health:

1. Core

One of the most fundamental attributes to lifelong physical health is building daily positive habits that encourage good posture and core stability. If posture makes up the foundation of all movement, core stability is the attribute that enables you to control the scaffolding around it. Core stability is improved by actively exercising the deep, small stabilising muscles beneath the diaphragm, pelvis and lumbar region (lower back). Every time we move – including inhaling a breath – these muscles activate.

2. Shoes and feet

Choosing the right shoes for you will save you some permanent health problems at some point in the future. Studies have shown that high heels bend the feet and toes into unnatural positions and have been linked to lower back pain and osteoarthritis of the knees. A physiotherapist can help assess your foot alignment and advise you on sensible shoe choices and possible shoe accessories such as orthotics.

3. Sleep

The importance of getting the right quantity and quality of sleep isn’t new information.. But did you know that selecting the correct mattress is just as important and can significantly improve your rest time? When you sleep, your mattress should support the natural curves of your spine while also ensuring your neck and shoulders are aligned properly. If you’re waking up in the morning with lower back pain that doesn’t resolve itself within 15-30 minutes, it might be time for a mattress upgrade.

4. Stretching

Stretching is an entirely natural and very intuitive motion to do. Rather than stretching when you feel tightness in your muscles, proactively allocate 2-3 stretch sessions a week. . Use dynamic stretching techniques (movement to progressively extend the stretch) before a workout to prevent strains and injury. Your physio can provide guidance on correct technique and specific stretches for your body’s concerns.

5. Pilates

Traditional Pilates has been used all over the world by professional athletes, dancers, actors and models. At Back In Motion we offer clinical Pilates which is guided by a physiotherapist to promote controlled and correct movement. Your physio will work with you to develop a personalised, results-focussed program suited to your body’s needs. Positive outcomes of regular clinical Pilates include improved posture and flexibility, decreased stress, enhanced concentration, and stronger core stability.

6. Massage

Research has proven that there are a vast range of therapeutic benefits that can be obtained from massage. Massage stimulates nerves, muscle fibres, and release endorphins that help the muscles to relax. Massage of all kinds including professional or a ‘shoulder rub’ from a friend or family member can be beneficial. If you are unable to find a massage partner, there are certain techniques that you can use on yourself. Always go slow and take care. You may like to visit a qualified physiotherapist who offers Soft Tissue Therapy which is a set of remedial techniques to directly impact your tight, injured or dysfunctional tissue.

Many of us only seek out the help of a health care professional when we are injured or in pain. Make a habit of arranging an appointment with your health care professional, such as a physiotherapist, every few months for a check-up. A physiotherapist can assess any physical health concerns and share with you any tips or exercises for sustaining good health.

Do you see a physio? What do they treat and does it work? Tell us below.