Physiotherapy, occupational therapy
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy restores physical function through exercise, massage and other techniques, thus promoting maintenance of the quality of life.
The aims of physiotherapy are:
- To maintain mobility
- To restore function
- To decrease pain
- To promote self-management of joint and postural problems
- To encourage maximum level of independence.
A physiotherapist assesses areas such as walking, movement restrictions, postural problems, disabilities (e.g. post-surgical, stroke-related, mobility and breathing problems), pain management (e.g. back pain and arthritis). A client’s physiotherapy needs are determined via an evaluation of functional activities (walking, transferring) through the assessment of muscle strength, joint movement and the nervous system.
Treatment includes exercise, stretching and massage, developing rehabilitation and exercise programs and management of joint and postural problems.
A physiotherapist should also educate clients and care-givers about injury and prevention, coping with disability and maintaining good health.
Occupational therapy
An occupational therapist assesses how a person manages their activities of daily living in order to enhance a person’s independence in all aspects of their life.
Types of assessment provided include:
- Home assessment.
- Home modification assessment.
- Activities of daily living assessments including showering, dressing, feeding.
- Wheelchair and scooter assessments.
- Assessment for domiciliary care services including home help, respite.
- Rehabilitation programs focusing on the person's return to managing their everyday activities.
- Equipment assessments.
- Upper limb assessments following disabilities, e.g. a stroke.