What is a physiotherapist? With a post-graduate university degree in Physical Therapy, physiotherapists (PTs) are experts in the assessment of physical function and the treatment of pain. There is strong research evidence that physiotherapy treatment can: • Reduce Pain • Improve Strength • Decrease Fatigue • Restore Function • Reduce Waiting Times for Surgery • Improve Outcome after Surgery • Quicker Return to Work The research also shows that physiotherapy is particularly effective for: • Arthritis [ more ] [cott 2005, mackay 2005, roddy 2005] • Shoulder pain • Low back pain [fricke 2005] • Peripheral Neuropathy • Hip and Knee Replacements [soever & Mackay, 2005] • Osteoporosis [fricke 2005] What do treatments consist of? • Correction of joint mechanics with hands on techniques including mobilizations, traction and massage. • Application of neuromuscular electrical stimulation, ultrasound, heat/cold therapy • Education regarding posture, ergonomics, the use of mobility aids, orthotics and protective bracing. • Instruction in a personalized home exercise program designed to restore range of motion, muscular control, strength and balance.