“Physiotherapists only see people in pain…. Physiotherapy requires a doctor’s note…. Physiotherapists only treat athletes…” If you’ve had these thoughts, you’re not alone. Misconceptions about physiotherapy inhibit many from seeking help even when needed! Physiotherapy is an essential part in most fields of healthcare. A physiotherapist plays a huge role in your well-being and health, but over the years, certain myths and misconceptions seem to have created confusion as to the working and benefit of physiotherapy. As a result of misinformation, innumerable people miss out on the benefits and healing of physiotherapy.

Here are a few common myths that need to be corrected:

Myth: Physiotherapy Hurts!

Fact: In the past, ‘no pain, no gain’ was the mantra of many healthcare professionals. However, with modern practices and newer technologies, we have numerous options to suit every need. While certain techniques may cause a little discomfort, no technique will make you scream in pain!

Myth 2: Physio Is Only For When I’m In Pain

Fact: While physiotherapy helps with the rehabilitation of injuries, pain-management is just a small part of the rehabilitation process. In most cases, your injury is not located at the place of soreness, but is a result of a faulty movement pattern! Fixing your movement pattern may involve improving poor joint mobility and muscle flexibility, bio-mechanical issues (how the forces move through your body) or improving your muscle control and strength. Improving these areas will not only prevent injuries from reoccurring but will also help you feel younger by allowing you to do more of whatever it is you want to do! You don’t need to be in pain, see a physio if you want to move better and feel more powerful and youthful!

Myth 3: Physiotherapy Is Only For Muscular Injuries

Fact: Physiotherapy also helps prevent injury and pain, and promotes mobility, health and wellness. Physiotherapy proves immensely useful in diverse health situations including sports injuries, post-fracture rehab, joint pains, back and neck pain, cardiac rehabilitation, stroke management, women’s health, nerve issues, balance and coordination problems, diabetic care, etc.

Myth 4: My Physio Is Going To Give Me A Whole Bunch Of Exercises

Fact: Giving you 15 exercises to do is a sure-fire way of ensuring you don’t do them! A good physiotherapist gives you a few of the easiest and the most effective exercises, which can be part of your daily life, so you don’t even have to set aside time for these! Instead of a bunch of exercises, we help you change your normal movement patterns – so you move better through the day, which means you exercise without even realising it! Plus, if proper movement patterns become habitual, they will last a lifetime.

Myth 5: I Need Scans Before I See A Physio

Fact: While scans can be useful, a physiotherapist is trained in evaluating and diagnosing injuries without the help of scans. The sooner you begin the rehabilitation process, the sooner you start healing and feeling better!

Myth 6: Physiotherapy Helps Only Post-Injury.

Fact: With the help of a detailed history and assessment, a physiotherapist can identify areas that are at risk for injury. With a tailor-made program, that area can be worked on; hence avoiding injury altogether. This is especially useful in preventing injuries in sports. Many people don’t realize they can see a physiotherapist for preventative maintenance or to optimize their current performance. Seeing a physiotherapist before you have pain allows us to correct any small issues before they turn into bigger problems. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or a weekend warrior, a physio helps you achieve your goals. If you’re scheduled for surgery, getting ‘prehabilitation’ gives you a greater range of motion and strength, allowing for an easier recovery. So don’t wait until you’re in pain to see your physiotherapist!

Myth 7: Physiotherapy Is Traditional ‘Haad-Vaid Treatment’

Fact: This myth stems from the fact that physiotherapy is an ancient form of treatment that was even used by Hippocrates in Greece. While its roots may be 2000 years old, it certainly is not a ‘haad-vaid like cracks’. Physiotherapy incorporates a range of technology-based treatments, including the modern-day laser therapy. It’s important to understand that though the roots of a treatment are dated, it has definitely evolved over time.

Myth 8: If You Exercise At The Gym, You Don’t Need Physiotherapy

Fact: This is a common myth, but it needs to be understood that exercises and gym routines help strengthen your muscles and increase stamina. Physiotherapy has medical uses – it is used for chronic pain management, treating muscular problems, improving posture, and so on. There’s a huge difference between these. Just because you exercise does not mean that you don’t need physiotherapy. In fact, many patients come to physiotherapy after suffering gym induced injuries!

Myth 9: You Can Conduct Physiotherapy Exercises Yourself

Fact: While some physical therapy routines may seem quite simple at first glance, it doesn’t mean you can do these yourself! Only a professional can spot the nuances of your body while you’re undergoing physiotherapy exercises, after which they can assess if you’re doing it right or wrong. Incorrectly self-prescribed exercise routines can worsen your injury and make the treatment pointless.

Myth 10:  A Physiotherapist Is The Same As A Chiropractor Or Massage Therapist

Fact: Physiotherapists, chiropractors and massage therapists are similar in that they use hands-on techniques to treat various conditions. However, your physiotherapist combines these hands-on techniques with a guided program to get you back to your activities faster. A physiotherapist uses a lot of research-backed evidence based treatment modalities that are constantly evolving.

Myth 11: If I Have Hip Pain Then The Injury Must Be In My Hip

Fact: Did you know that pain in one body part could in fact be representing an issue in a different body part. Your physiotherapist will often check the joints above and below the area of pain to rule out other underlying problems. Clients are often surprised to hear our initial assessments are for an hour or more. But this allows us to assess and treat all areas contributing to your pain.

Myth 12: I Need A Doctor’s Referral To Come To Physiotherapy

Fact: Physiotherapists are primary care practitioners, which means you don’t require a doctor’s note to make an appointment. You can directly approach a physiotherapist, as a proactive and preventive measure!