Musculoskeletal physiotherapy involves assessing, diagnosing, and treating a range of conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. These conditions can result from injury, overuse, poor posture, or age-related degeneration. Common musculoskeletal issues treated by physiotherapists include:

• Back and neck pain

• Joint pain (e.g., hip and knee)

• Shoulder rotator cuff and shoulder bursitis 

• Tendinopathy injuries (Achilles, hamstring, rotator cuff)

• Arthritis and osteoarthritis

• Soft tissue injuries (sprains, strains, and tears)

An assessment by a musculoskeletal physiotherapist includes a thorough history taking, (including what treatments you may have had previously), evidence based physical examination and an understanding the impact your condition has on general movements, daily activities and physical activity.. This helps to develop a tailored treatment plan designed to address the root cause of pain or dysfunction.

Evidence-based practice is the cornerstone of modern physiotherapy, ensuring that the treatment you receive is grounded in the latest scientific research. Musculoskeletal physiotherapists use a variety of therapeutic techniques or interventions that have been proven to be effective in treating pain, improving function, and preventing further injury. These include:

• Manual Therapy: This includes hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage and dynamic nerve mobility. Manual therapy can help reduce pain, improve stiffness and the awareness of tension thus creating a window of opportunity to add movement and exercise.

• Exercise Therapy: Exercise is a key component of musculoskeletal physiotherapy. Therapeutic exercises are prescribed to improve strength, mobility, and endurance. These exercises are designed to target specific muscle groups, improve posture, and correct movement patterns that may contribute to pain.

• Education and Advice: Physiotherapists provide advice on healing times of injured tissues, biomechanics, and activity modifications to prevent injury and promote long-term health. Education about lifestyle changes and ergonomics plays a crucial role in managing musculoskeletal conditions effectively.

• Modalities: Physiotherapists may use various modalities like heat and cold therapy, or electrical stimulation to help manage pain, reduce swelling, reduce arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI) and speed up healing.

Pain relief: Physiotherapy helps to reduce pain through manual therapy, exercises, and other techniques. It addresses the underlying causes of pain rather than just masking symptoms.

Improved mobility and function: Physiotherapists use exercises to improve joint mobility, muscle strength, and coordination, helping you to regain full function and independence.

Prevention of future injury: A key aspect of musculoskeletal physiotherapy is injury prevention. By identifying risk factors and addressing weaknesses in your musculoskeletal system, physiotherapists can help reduce the likelihood of future injuries.

Non-Invasive Treatment: Musculoskeletal physiotherapy offers a non-invasive alternative to surgery and medications for managing many musculoskeletal conditions. It is often used in conjunction with other forms of treatment for optimal results.

At our practice, we believe in using treatments supported by the latest research to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. By staying up to date with the latest evidence and techniques, we ensure that your treatment is not only effective but also tailored to your specific needs. Our approach to musculoskeletal physiotherapy is an individualised, comprehensive approach to recovery that can make a significant difference in your ability to move freely and live pain-free.