5 Types of Physiotherapy Exercises

Physiotherapy exercises are an integral part of the recovery process of a patient with musculoskeletal problems. There are different types of exercises targeted at different parts of the body and is often used in conjunction with other treatment methods such as surgery and medication.

Range of motion exercises

One of the most common physiotherapy exercises is the range of motion exercise. This is performed by patients suffering from joint problems including the knee joint, shoulder joint and elbow joint. Due to injury, joints are often stiff, inflamed and swollen. As a result, the ability to achieve maximum range of motion is hindered. Imagine yourself being unable to fully straighten your leg or your elbow. It is definitely going to cause a lot of discomfort. Range of motion exercises can effectively loosen tight tissues and help to slowly improve your joint flexibility.

Strengthening exercises

Strengthening exercises can be prescribed before and after any surgery. Before surgery, the muscles must be strong as patients are often required are required to rest for a certain period of time, resulting in atrophy of the muscles. Strong muscles prior to surgery can help to reduce the level of weakness and better support the injured parts. After surgery, the muscles will need to be strengthened to help better support the recovery parts and bear the weight and grunt of the body.

Soft tissue mobilisation

Soft tissue mobilisation helps to relax tense and tight muscles which would otherwise be causing a lot of discomfort and pain to the patient. It is performed by therapists doing massage on the affected area, static stretching to relax and relieve stiffness and the usage of therapeutic tapes which supposedly helps to improve blood flow.

General conditioning

General conditioning as its name suggests helps to provide conditioning of the body through various cardiovascular exercises such as walking, swimming and jogging. It helps to increase flexibility of the joints as well as improve overall health.

Balancing exercises

Due to injuries, the body's natural ability to balance the body may be slightly off and therefore, exercises that help to restore the balance will need to be performed. Initially, the use of a parallel bar may be required to help you keep your balance but as time goes by, you can start to disregard the presence of that bar.