Physiotherapy is not new. The practice has been around for a long time, with the first documented origins dating back to 1813––more than two centuries ago.
But, regardless of its age and popular appeal today, there are still plenty of myths surrounding the practice.
Today’s article aims to break down four of the most common physiotherapy myths.
Let’s talk about it.
Myth 1: You Need a Prescription
One common misconception is that making an appointment with a physiotherapist is a long and time-consuming process. Many people believe they first have to visit their general practitioner and make a case for themselves before getting the necessary referral.
Fortunately, that’s not the case––you can set up an appointment with a physiotherapist if you’re dealing with issues.
You can find physiotherapists in hospitals, clinics, and even sports facilities, which means they are far more accessible than most people imagine.
Getting the proper diagnosis early allows you to start treatment immediately and prevent further damage.
Myth 2: Physiotherapy is Painful
Many people don’t go to a physiotherapist for years because the interventions might cause pain. This is particularly true for folks who have had bad experiences with medical professionals in the past.
The good news is that it isn’t painful. Pain generally signals that something is wrong, and a good physiotherapist would know how to proceed without causing pain.
Plus, most people go in for physiotherapy precisely because they are suffering from pain or general discomfort and want to get rid of it.
Myth 3: Physiotherapy is Unnecessary
Many people treat spasms, sprains, and muscle injuries with painkillers, thinking that temporary pain relief is all it takes to fix everything. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case.
Just as you can’t put duct tape over the rust of your car and call it fixed, you cannot mask symptoms in hopes that the problem will go away on its own.
Physiotherapy is not necessary for everyone but is crucial for people with injuries, chronic pain, mobility loss, etc.
Untreated injuries can get better for a while, but the risk of aggravating them in the future is much bigger, and you might end up with a chronic issue on your hands. Even worse, untreated problems could cause mobility issues that plague you for many years.
Myth 4: Only Injured People Need Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is often seen as a form of rehab work to help athletes and everyday people regain mobility and strength after an injury. Because of that, there is a myth that only injured people need to work with a physiotherapist, which is certainly not the case.
While physiotherapy is necessary for rehab, it can also be fantastic for prehab and for resolving issues before they cause damage down the road.
Working with a skilled physiotherapist can help you stay healthy in the long run. Such a specialist can correct your technique, help you strengthen weak muscles, make you more efficient, and provide guidance on how to exert yourself while staying safe.
