Here are some of those facts to dispel the common myths and explain what an effective form of treatment it is.

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Some people think physiotherapy is painful. But, it is not a painful method. Physiotherapists treat you to minimize your pain and discomfort. Even the condition is acute, sub-acute or chronic, they work within the range of pain threshold and help to heal and restore the movement and function.

 

Physiotherapy is only for injuries and accidents?

It is not only for injuries and accidents. Many people can be benefited from physiotherapy since it has a wide range of specialities.

 

In conditions like degenerative disc disease, rotator cuff tears, some forms of knee osteoarthritis, people think surgery as the only option that they have. But, physiotherapy is a very effective treatment for these conditions also.

 

Some people have misunderstood that physiotherapists treat only for muscle pain. Physiotherapists are qualified to treat a wide range of diseases and it is not limited to muscle pain or ligament related problems. Paralyzed patients, pregnant mothers, geriatric patients, children also seek treatment from physiotherapy.

 

Another common myth is that people think physiotherapy takes a long time to heal their conditions. The treatment period may differ according to the condition and its severity. But, in most of the conditions, the results are usually visible in a few sessions. Physiotherapists do their treatment according to a plan which is made by themselves for the benefit of the patient. It might be longer than others according to the above facts. But, the results are visible from the initial sessions itself.

 

A common myth is that physiotherapy is a modernized term for massage therapy. The community should know that physiotherapy and massage therapy are two different things. Massage is a practice for relaxation. But, physiotherapy is a practice to cure patients, reduce their pain and disabilities, rehabilitate patients after injuries and promote their functions. It is an effective method of treatment based on a full patient assessment and a treatment plan.

 

Another misconception is that physiotherapy is only for chronic conditions. But, it is also incorrect. Physiotherapists can treat whether the condition is acute or sub-acute or chronic. They have specific treatments according to the stage of the condition. In their treatment plan, they try to achieve specific goals to the stage of the condition.

 

Some people think physiotherapy treatments are expensive. Many hospitals and private centers provide physiotherapy services at affordable prices making it attainable for all. And also, people can receive their treatments in Sri Lankan government hospitals without any charges.