Signs That It's Time for Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy, or physical therapy as it's sometimes called, is very different than simple exercise and massages you get at a spa. A physiotherapist will be trained to work on damaged or worn joints and will know how to alleviate symptoms of arthritis and other such issues. While your doctor may tell you when it's time to get physiotherapy for a certain condition, note when you may want to initiate the conversation with him or her, and ask if these therapy sessions would be a good choice for you.
Disturbed sleep
If your joint pain, back pain, or any other such discomfort keeps you from falling asleep, wakes you up during the night, or makes it difficult to enjoy a deep and restful sleep, it's time to address those aches and pains. Sleep is very important for your overall health, and daytime fatigue can lead to accidents and injuries. The right physiotherapy sessions, along with prescribed exercises your therapist may recommend for you at home, before bedtime, can mean peaceful and deep, restful sleep every night.
Mobility and balance
If you find that you often need to grab a wall or piece of furniture while you walk, or if you struggle to make it up the stairs without pain or some type of assistance, it's good to consider physiotherapy. Mobility and balance issues can increase your risk of falling in the shower, falling down stairs, or tripping over small obstacles that you might otherwise easily manage. Any of these types of falls can be very dangerous; even slipping out of place can mean pulling muscles, damaging your back and the like. Physiotherapy meant to address mobility and balance can then keep you safer when walking, bathing, etc.
Increasing pain
If you have a very mild case of arthritis or other such issue, you may be able to manage the pain over the years. However, many conditions related to damaged muscles and joints often cause increasing pain as time goes on. This can interfere with your quality of life, and you may even be tempted to rely on harsh and dangerous pain medications.
Having physiotherapy before the pain gets unmanageable can mean avoiding those risks so that your pain stays manageable over the years. Also, note that increasing pain often indicates that your physical condition is getting worse, so it's good to schedule an appointment with your doctor and then with a physiotherapist as soon as possible to monitor your condition and ensure you're caring for your overall health.
