Choosing a physiotherapist is not a task to be taken lightly, you’re trusting this professional with your body and your future wellbeing, after all! To find the right treatment for you, it takes a little more than heading to your suburb’s local physio.
Instead, you need to dedicate a little time and some research resources to find a physiotherapist who’s going to work with you in a way that is beneficial to you. Here are a few top tips to help you find a physiotherapist that is completely right for you…
Look at specifications and specialist care
The nature of your injury or your need for physiotherapy can be the key to selecting the right physiotherapist. Maybe you’ve got an impact or sustained injury from playing sports or from rigorous physical exercise?
If so, you might be better off visiting a specialized sports physio instead of receiving general treatment. If you’re suffering from a particularly painful lower back, a musculoskeletal-focused professional will work better for you.
By selecting treatment regarding your own body and day-to-day life, you won’t only be getting care from the right physiotherapist, but you just might see faster results too.
Think about location
Although you shouldn’t choose your physio solely based on how near they are to you, you should consider the realities of how far you’re willing to travel for care. A physiotherapist is not a one-time thing, your sessions will be regular in some format, whether it’s short or long-term.
Consider your travel time when looking at options, something that’s too far away will deter you from undergoing regular sessions, which you might require.
You should also check up on the long-term availability of the professional that you’re interested in, it’s no good connecting with a physio only to find out that they have no room in their schedule.
Check their qualifications
You’ll need to be sure that your chosen physiotherapist is sufficiently qualified! Check that they are part of the Australian Physiotherapy Association, this will ensure that they comply with best practices and nationwide healthcare standards.
This can be a funny one, but you should never feel awkward about checking up on the qualifications of a physio, call and ask reception before you book your appointment.
Inquire about their methods
Physiotherapy uses a holistic approach to nurse you back to full physical health, so it’s worthwhile checking on the specific methods that the physios that you are interested in seeing use.
For example, if you have a strong aversion to acupuncture, you might want to see if the professional you’re going to visit use it or not!
Most physios use a combination of massage, exercises, stretching, acupuncture, and education, but it’s always good to have a chat about particular treatments that you want to receive.
This will ensure that you don’t waste your or your physio’s time when you’re in a session as well.
Ask around!
As with most decisions, it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion.
Chances are, you know someone who’s had to have physiotherapy at some point in their lives, and your social circle can inform you on where is and isn’t ideal to turn to when you need treatment. The power of word of mouth is very much real!
By following these easy tips, you can be sure that you’ll nail down a physiotherapist that is perfect for you. You’ll receive just the right care in the right way, and location, for you! Research a physio in Sydney to start your process now.