If you’ve been affected by injury, illness or disability, physiotherapy provides an excellent recovery plan that keeps you involved, focused and energised. Here’s how treatment can help your body and mind feel healthier and happier. Plus, where to find a physiotherapist in Hong Kong.
When suffering from an injury, illness, disability – or just pesky muscle aches and pains, posture problems or soreness – it can be tempting to turn to your bed, egg tarts and Netflix. But stop! Step away from the duvet and enter the world of physiotherapy. Commonly associated with helping patients to regain muscle strength and mobility after surgery, or when recovering from conditions such as Parkinson’s or a stroke, a physio’s magic doesn’t end there. Read on to discover more about the practice that’s all about touch and go.
What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy (also known as physical therapy) is a science-based approach to healing pain and getting your bits back to good working order using physical touch, movement and equipment. While it’s well known for assisting with injuries and preventing further injury in the future, physiotherapy can also assist with asthma, back pain, posture issues, fractures and dislocations, pelvic floor dysfunction, heart disease and cystic fibrosis – it’s even recommended when preparing for a sporting event or childbirth. The list goes on. You can read more of the benefits here.
Importantly, at the core of physiotherapy is the patient’s involvement in their own care and participation in their treatment. Basically, you’ve got to be in it to win it!
What are some physiotherapy techniques?
Physiotherapists can offer an impressive range of medical techniques. Some common treatment methods include movement, joint mobilisation, muscle strengthening and manual manipulation. Acupuncture and hydrotherapy are also becoming popular. Click here to find out about these techniques in more detail. Physios consider the body as a whole, rather than just focusing on the individual aspects of an injury or illness. They’ll also give advice to enhance a patient’s overall wellbeing; this might include tips on diet and exercise, for example.
Physiotherapy helps to aid recovery; so shouldn’t I be resting?
Nice try! Of course, we must rest and let our bodies heal if we feel unwell. However, chilling out too much can do more harm than good. Repair tissue can become stiff, causing muscles to weaken and increasing the risk of re-injury and pain.
What should I expect from a physiotherapy session?
Arrive at your first session in comfy clothes. Also, prepare to answer questions and share information about your medical history. As physiotherapists strive to pinpoint the root cause of injuries and other ailments, they’ll first delve into your health and wellbeing before prescribing the movements and exercises to best suit you. Expect three or four physiotherapy sessions a week, at least in the initial stages of your rehabilitation. Yes, it’s a lot. But regular movement encourages blood circulation; and that in turn will speed up your down time.
Where can I have physiotherapy in Hong Kong? How much does it cost?
Physiotherapy in Hong Kong can take place in hospitals and clinics so long as it’s regulated by the Physiotherapists Board. All practicing physiotherapists in Hong Kong have to be registered with them here.
The cost varies. It can range from HK$50 per session for consultations in the public sector to between HK$1,000 and HK$1,900 for private practice. While a physiotherapist may sometimes use specialised equipment, with COVID-19 it’s helpful to know that many exercises can be safely done at home too. Speak to your physio about the options!
This article was independently written by Expat Living and is not sponsored – it’s informative only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, so should not be relied upon for specific medical advice.
Read more on men’s and women’s health in our Health & Fitness section.
