10 Popular Myths About Physiotherapy – Debunked!

Physiotherapy has now become a well-known treatment for those who need recovery or rehabilitation to transform their lives by improving their mobility, physical fitness, and overall quality of life. Physiotherapy is a growing occupation in Canada, and the demand for physiotherapists surpasses the number of physiotherapists available. People around the globe have been going to physiotherapists after experiencing chronic pain all their life or suffering a painful injury. As the demand for physiotherapy continues to rise, many patients are experiencing immensely transformative results with this treatment. However, some misconceptions are bound to persist. We are here to debunk some of these myths and misconceptions so everyone can access physiotherapy and take charge of their health.

Myth 1: Physiotherapy is Only for Pain

This is absolutely false. Physiotherapy is not just pain relief. You don’t just have to visit a physiotherapist after undergoing surgery or suffering from an injury. This is because physiotherapy is much more than injury recovery. This treatment is all about increasing mobility in a person’s body and enhancing the body’s performance in everyday living. The physiotherapists get the best of people’s bodies so they can participate in life and do more of what they enjoy and love. Physiotherapists spend time with you to evaluate your weaknesses and diagnose any potential problems in the body before they become concerning issues like disability or serious injuries. Physiotherapy can reduce pain, help a person stay active, and improve and restore mobility.  

Myth 2: Physiotherapists Stop People from Doing Things They Love

The last thing physiotherapists want is to stop a person from participating in life and stop them from engaging in their favourite activities. The whole purpose of physiotherapy is to allow a person to become more active. However, it is necessary for those undergoing physiotherapy to take a rest and come up with alternatives that can prove to be more useful while taking a break from their favourite activities. It’s important to remember that all of this short-term sacrifice is for a better future and pain-free years in the future, filled with fun.

Myth 3: Physiotherapy is Painful

The whole purpose of physiotherapy is to minimize pain and seek improved mobility by eliminating discomfort. Whether it’s a chronic pain or acute pain, physiotherapists will help you heal and restore movement in your body that will allow you to function without pain.

Myth 4: Physiotherapy is Only for Athletes

Many people think that just because they’re not athletics or they don’t play sports, physiotherapists can not help them, and it would just be a waste of time. You don’t have to be an athlete with a serious injury or someone with excruciating pain to seek help from a physiotherapist. Physiotherapists do treat people with sporting conditions and injuries, but if you experience pain like back pain, headaches, knee pain, or any other type of pain or symptoms that are not related to any sports, you can consult a physiotherapist.

Myth 5: GP Referral is Needed to See a Physiotherapist

You don’t need a doctor or any other general physician to refer you to a physiotherapist. You can book a physiotherapist appointment in Edmonton, AB, if you have been experiencing pain or discomfort. Don’t wait and immediately consult your nearest physiotherapist.

Myth 6: Private Health Insurance Doesn’t Cover Physiotherapy

This isn’t true, as many private health insurance providers do cover physiotherapy. You can always check your health insurance provider’s policies and guidelines to check if they cover physiotherapy. Most insurance plans cover the whole visit or at least a portion of the physiotherapy visit. Many healthcare providers may also cover some physiotherapy services after a fracture or surgery.  

Myth 7: You Need an Ultrasound/MRI/X-ray Before Seeing a Physiotherapist

If there are any problems or issues in your joints or muscles, a simple scan will not pick that up. Such problems can cause serious injuries if not properly checked out by a physiotherapist. Skilled and trained physiotherapists will assess a patient thoroughly, and within your first session, they will talk about everything—from your medical history to your current lifestyle. They will also go over your symptoms and get hands-on treatment going to help alleviate the pain you might be experiencing. It depends on them if they want you to get any scans done or if the diagnosis they have for your recovery will work in the meantime.

Myth 8: Physiotherapy Exercises are Home Exercises

Physiotherapists don’t want to send a patient home and give them a list of exercises the patients will forget by the time they reach home. Instead, physio exercises are adjusted according to your ability. Your physiotherapists will work with you and walk you through your exercises. If they want you to do any exercises at home, they will provide you with video demonstrations.  

Myth 9: Physiotherapists Provide Massages and Hook You Up to Machines

Physiotherapists use techniques like manual therapy only to help you in your injury, pain, or illness. They also have skills like soft tissue release and other targeted therapeutic exercises that are helpful in your recovery process. Some physiotherapists also perform adjustments and use acupuncture or dry needling. It all depends on the problem we’re dealing with.

Myth 10: You Have to Go to Physio Appointments Forever

Everyone’s recovery is different. After proper recovery, you only need a few more visits, and you will be fit soon. We only want you to get the best out of your body and for your body to function efficiently.

Book a Physiotherapy Session Online

You can visit our Edmonton clinic. Our trained physiotherapists are available for any treatment, including manual therapy, vestibular therapy, shockwave therapy, acupuncture, and more. You can also book a physiotherapist appointment to know more about your condition and explore treatment options before selecting your mode of recovery. Schedule a meeting with a physical therapist in Edmonton today.