Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy (MSP) is a modality which helps to treat the muscles and joints of the body. It includes diagnosis, treatment and prevention of injuries to the musculoskeletal system and joint that may lead to pain, stiffness or limitation of movement.
What all is involved in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
It involves rehabilitation after injuries and the physiotherapist helps to restore full mobility to the affected area by undertaking a wide range of therapeutic interventions. The physiotherapist’s role is very important as it involves the management and implementation of a wide range of therapeutic techniques to prevent or reduce pain and disability in patients with various injuries.
Physiotherapy is an important therapeutic modality that can help to improve fitness, strength, endurance, coordination and flexibility of the musculoskeletal system and promote healthy movement and posture. A balance between preventive measures and acute therapy is usually applied when treating athletes with various sports injuries.
A well-structured program of exercises and other therapies can be useful in providing immediate pain relief and preventing long term complications. Physiotherapy can provide immediate pain relief and prevent the onset of limitations and pain in various areas of the musculoskeletal system. Physiotherapy can help to manage and improve muscle strength and conditioning, strength and power, and range of motion.
Physiotherapy can help to reduce pain, inflammation and swelling of the muscles and joints. The physiotherapist will determine the best physiotherapy treatment for the patient according to the nature and cause of the pain, injury and restriction of movement. Common treatment modalities include ultrasound, laser, heat and ice packs, manual compression and manual rewarming.
These techniques are applied to reduce stress and pressure on the injured area. Heat therapy can be particularly effective in improving blood flow to the muscles and joints, while cold packs and ice pack to reduce inflammation and pain by constricting the muscles and soft tissues.
Physiotherapy is important, but it must be coupled with an effective stretching and strengthening program. A good physiotherapy program should include activities that increase the strength of the muscles, range of motion, endurance and flexibility. This can be achieved through a combination of exercise and stretching exercises, and regular, progressive workouts.
It is important that you seek the guidance of a professional trainer or physiotherapist to design an effective exercise program that is tailored to your particular needs. It is also important that you correctly stretch and warm up before and during any exercise.
Often people who have undergone an injury at work will return to their previous level of activity without treatment. Musculoskeletal problems tend to respond better to treatments which are conducted early in the course of the problem, as opposed to treatments which are implemented later into the joint’s life.
For example, injured knee cap muscles may improve with icing, but an injury to the patella tendon will not improve with icing. It is best to seek advice from a professional trainer or physiotherapist to determine the best treatment protocol for your specific condition.
Musculoskeletal problems can affect the whole body, including the spine. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor for a diagnosis before deciding on the treatment plan. However, the treatments that you will receive with musculoskeletal physiotherapy will address the issues which are causing the problem. Therefore, treatment for the spine will include massage therapy, resistance training, and stretching exercises to return your back and neck to normal health.