Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy relates to treatment to the musculoskeletal system. This involves muscles, tendons, bones, joints, nerves, ligaments and cartilage. MSK physiotherapists provide an assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for patients with MSK pain and dysfunction.
Your physiotherapist will use physical approaches (eg. stretching, strengthening, hands on techniques, taping etc), education, and additional treatment modalities such as acupuncture & heat to promote, maintain and restore physical, psychological and social well being, taking into account all variations in your health status.
At The Wilson Bleasdale Clinic a wide spectrum of MSK ailments are treated including:
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Shoulder and elbow problems
- Foot and ankle injuries
- Knee problems
- Post orthopaedic rehabilitation
- Hip problems
- Post fracture rehabilitation
- TMJ (jaw pain)
- Migraines
- Headaches
In addition, an in-depth display-screen assessment for those that suffer from aches and pains at work due to poor desk ergonomics can be undertaken.
Common treatment modalities that are used include exercise therapy, mobilisation and manipulation techniques, postural re-education, manual therapy, muscle energy techniques, individual exercise programmes, acupuncture, myofascial release, taping, sports massage, pain management, proprioceptive and balance exercises, and biomechanical assessments.
Thr approach is always evidence-based, professional and supported by the latest research. The aim is to not only to settle your problem and return you to activity, but also to identify the underlying cause of your discomfort. Often a weakness or a biomechanical fault needs to be addressed in order to prevent recurrence.
If your condition requires further investigation, you will be referred on to the appropriate department, including a consultant’s opinion if needed.
What to expect from your first appointment
On your first visit you will be asked a series of questions about your problem, and your general health. This helps your therapist understand and diagnose your condition.
Your therapist will also perform a series of tests and carry out a physical examination, feeling around your joints and muscles affected by your condition.
You will be informed of the findings your physio has made, and a treatment plan will be made to set you on the road to recovery.
When attending your first appointment, please bring a list of current medication(s), and some suitable clothing as your therapist will need to examine the area of your symptoms.
Under 16’s need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian to their first appointment.
Your first appointment is very important as this is the opportunity for your physio to truly assess your condition and look at all aspects of your symptoms. Half an hour is rarely long enough to assess accurately and treat effectively and maintain a high standard of care.
Therefore all new patient appointments are up to 60 minutes, and follow-up appointments up to 45 minutes.