'HANDS ON PHYSIOTHERAPY' 

Physiotherapists are experts in handling soft tissue and moving joints.  This is done under the patient's control and might involve various types of massage and joint moblisation.  The techniques used will reduce swelling, reduce pain, reduce muscle and joint stiffness and facilitate better movement and performance.

 

ELECTROTHERAPY

At Milton Keynes Physiotherapy Clinic we have :

• Ultra sound which is used primarily to aid recovery of damaged or inflamed tendons and ligaments.

• Interferential which is used to reduce pain and muscle spasm.

• TENS which is a mobile unit which patients can borrow and is used as a very effective drug-free method of controlling pain.

• Bio-feedback which consists of small self adhesive electrodes and a small display unit which monitors muscle contraction and is used to retrain weak muscles.

 

ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture has been used in China for 3000 years.  Traditional Chinese Medicine uses acupuncture to treat all manor of medical illnesses and injuries believing the insertion of needles into the body in a certain pattern helps to restore a healthy energy flow and thus bring about  healing.

 

In the West acupuncture became popular in the 1970's and science has shown that insertion of needles results in stimulation of part of the brain that regulates pain perception and releases pain relieving substances called endorphines.

 

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine sterile disposable needles into the skin often using the well established Chinese patterns.  Between 4 and 20 needles for 20 minutes would be a typical treatment.  The physiotherapist will be looking to reduce pain so that movement and function can be restored.  During treatment the patient will experience a slight tingle or ache at the site of the needles but this is not unduly unpleasant.

 

TREATMENT OF SPORTS INJURIES

Treatment of sports injuries is very similar to the treatment of other everyday injuries and aches and pains (see 'Hands On Physiotherapy' ) but with the extra focus on sports specific rehabilitation.  The physiotherapist understands the movement and muscle control required for the sport and is ideally placed to create an appropriate rehabilitation programmme.

 

SPORTS MASSAGE

This is hands on manipulation and stretching of soft tissue used to prevent and treat injury pre and post competition and during training.  The techniques improve circulation, improve removal of metabolic waste in muscles, remodel scar tissue if needed, assist in mental preparation of the participant and aid relaxation.  Sports massage is not exclusively for sport and at Milton Keynes Physiotherapy Clinic many injuries and conditions benefit from massage tailored to the problem in hand.  Often the client just wants to enjoy the relaxation aspect of massage ... and why not!

 

WOMEN'S HEALTH

One of the main causes of incontinence in both men and women is weak pelvic floor muscles.  Physiotherapists with special training are able to assess pelvic floor function and provide exercises to help strengthen and rehabilitate the weak muscles.   

 

For more information on incontinence and for tips and exercises please visit the CSP website : www.csp.org.uk

 

STROKE

Following a stroke physiotherapy plays a key role in the patient's healthcare team while they are in hospital and afterwards.  The physiotherapist will put together a programme of exercises and treatments, setting goals with the patient and supporting them and their family throughout their rehabilitation in order to get them back to everyday life.

 

For more information about strokes  please visit www.stroke.org.uk/support/our-life-after-stroke-services

 

PODIATRY

Podiatry aims to assess and analyse the lower limb function  and particularly the foot to identify whether the alignment of the lower limbs and feet are the cause of the patient's musculo-skeletal problems.  These problems include bunions, knee pain, hip and back pain and even headaches. Problems can be eased and even resolved through correctly prescribed orthotics (shoe insoles).

 

ERGONOMICS

Ergonomics looks at how humans relate and function in relation to the tools and furniture they use.  Physiotherapists are well positioned to assess, analyse and make adjustments to working practices and furniture to resolve work-related problems such as headaches, back pain, neck pain and RSI.