Physiotherapists
Physiotherapists
Physiotherapists (pronunciation: fiz-ee-oh-ther-a-pists), also known as Physical Therapists, are healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to the very oldest, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions, illnesses, or injuries that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities as well as they would like in their daily lives.
Etymology
The term Physiotherapist is derived from the Greek words 'Physis' meaning 'Nature' and 'Therapeia' meaning 'Treatment'. Thus, the term essentially means 'Treatment by Nature'.
Role of Physiotherapists
Physiotherapists use an individual's history and physical examination to arrive at a diagnosis and establish a management plan and, when necessary, incorporate the results of laboratory and imaging studies like X-rays, CT-scan, or MRI findings. Electrodiagnostic testing (e.g., electromyograms and nerve conduction velocity testing) may also be used.
Physiotherapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings, and nursing homes.
Related Terms
- Physical Therapy: The treatment or management of physical disability, malfunction, or pain by exercise, massage, hydrotherapy, etc., without the use of medicines, surgery, or radiation.
- Rehabilitation: The process of helping an individual achieve the highest level of function, independence, and quality of life possible after illness, injury, or onset of disease.
- Occupational Therapy: A form of therapy for those recuperating from physical or mental illness that encourages rehabilitation through the performance of activities required in daily life.
- Orthopedic Physical Therapy: This involves the treatment or management of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system and the rehabilitation of patients after orthopedic operations.
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