Orthopedic Physiotherapy: Treatment, Procedure, Cost and Side Effects

Orthopaedic physiotherapy refers to a way of treatment of injuries and disorders related to the skeletal system and associated muscles, joints and ligaments. The conditions that can be treatment by orthopaedic physiotherapy are- ligament strain, sprain or tear, osteoporosis, rheumatoid, spondylolysis, fracture rehabilitation, scoliosis and surgical rehabilitation of hip, shoulder, knee and foot/ ankle. If you are undergoing any of the mentioned conditions, pre-operative physiotherapy will help you strengthen physically and cardiovascularly. It helps in quick recovery after the surgery.

There are different physio treatments available for solving different orthopaedic conditions. Manual therapy is a carefully graded system wherein, the joints are moved to reduce pain. Mobilisation, manipulation and other techniques are used to restore the normal mobility of the joints. The scar tissue in muscle or ligament can be broken down by a variety of massage techniques ranging from relaxing light pressure massage to deep friction massage. During neuromuscular stimulation, electrodes are used to strengthen very weak muscles. The portable versions of this electric machine, with variable currents, are now available to rent or buy. This is extremely beneficial after a knee surgery to strengthen the knee muscles. Ultrasound therapy is another way of treating the pains. Ultrasonic wave are produced by an electric machine. They are then transmitted into the affected area using conducting gel. This reduces pain along with increasing regenerative powers of tissues and circulation. Ultrasound therapy works best for soft tissue injuries.

If you are going through ligament strain, sprain or tear, osteoporosis, rheumatoid, spondylolysis, fracture rehabilitation, scoliosis and surgical rehabilitation of hip, shoulder, knee and foot/ ankle; you may try orthopaedic surgery to relieve your pains.

In most cases, everyone can go for orthopaedic therapies but you must consult a good doctor and find out if your body is allergic to any of the substances that will be applied during the therapy.

Some substances, like ointments or gels, may be applied on your skin during the therapy. This may cause temporary redness, irritation and itching in your skin. There is nothing to worry about. It goes away soon after.

You must follow the instructions provided by your therapist. Keep practicing the exercises as suggested by him/ her to regain the mobility of your limbs.

The time period of your recovery depends on the severity of your condition and the area that is affected. The earlier your injuries are addressed, the less time it will take to recover.

The cost of one session of consultation with a physiotherapist will cost you between ₹400 - ₹800. The cost of therapy will depend on the one you choose to go for and the severity of your condition.

The results of the treatments can be permanent if you take proper care and follow the instructions provided by your therapist.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese massage therapy involving insertion of fine needles into the dysfunctional muscles. It changes the way your body feels pains and helps the body heal trigger points. It is used to reduce pain and normalise movements.