Manual therapy encompasses joint and soft tissue mobilisations and in certain circumstances joint manipulations. Mobilisations are low grade oscillatory movements whereas manipulations are high velocity thrust techniques. Mobilisations are used predominantly at physioONE as the treatment of choice. The aim of manual therapy is to increase joint range of movement, reduce pain, realign tissue fibres, improve tissue healing and return normal function.
Massage of muscles, tendons and ligaments helps decrease muscle tension and improve blood and lymphatic circulation. This will allow waste products to be removed from the tissues so reducing fatigue, stress, pain and injury. A variety of massage techniques may be used to achieve this.
Sports massage is a deep tissue massage often used pre and post a sporting activity. Sports massage may help individuals train harder more frequently if performed regularly.
This is the term used for modalities such as Ultrasound, TENS, Interferential and Laser. Electrotherapy can help acute conditions where pain and swelling are predominant or in chronic cases of thickened or scar tissue.
At physioONE electrotherapy may be used in conjunction with other treatments as a more hands on approach is favoured.
China has been using acupuncture to restore, promote and maintain good health for over 3000 years making it one of the oldest forms of medicine.
The philosophy behind acupuncture is that energy lines or meridians flow around the body. These meridians contain our energy or "qi" and when impaired imbalance and illness occurs.
Fine needles can be inserted at various points on the meridian and the energy can be moved or redirected to where it is needed most. In this way the body's balance can be restored and the illness resolved.
Endorphins, the bodies natural pain relief is released by acupuncture and so helps alleviate pain. This effect is cumulative and so a greater effect can be achieved through a course of acupuncture.
Acupuncture may be used as part of the Physiotherapy treatment if appropriate. Before a course of Acupuncture is started it will be discussed with you fully and consent obtained. Single use sterile needles are used in a controlled environment.
An individually tailored programme of exercises will be devised for you over the course of treatment to resolve you symptoms and enable you to return to your normal function. Exercises may include those based on movement, stretch, strength, core stability, posture and specific exercises for your activities. Exercises will be chosen to fit in with your lifestyle whether you have access to a gym or not.
At physioONE we believe that you will achieve a better outcome by understanding your condition through advice and education. A clear and concise explanation of your symptoms and treatment will be given in terms you will be able to understand. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions throughout your session.
This may include for example: