What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a health care profession concerned with human function and movement and maximising potential:

• It uses physical approaches to promote, maintain and restore physical, psychological and social well-being, taking account of variations in health status.
• Iit is science-based, committed to extending, applying, evaluating and reviewing the evidence  that underpins and informs its practice and delivery.
• Tthe exercise of clinical judgement and informed interpretation is at its core.

Chartered Society of Physiotherapy Curriculum Framework (2002)

 What do Physiotherapists do?

Physiotherapists combine their specific knowledge, skills and approach to improve a broad range of physical problems associated with different 'systems' of the body, in particular the neuromusculor (brain and nervous system), musculoskeletal (soft tissues, joints and bones), cardiovascular and respiratory systems (heart and lungs and associated physiology).

Physiotherapists' work covers health promotion, preventative healthcare, treatment and rehabilitation, with people of all ages and with their families/carers whenever appropriate. 

The core skills of chartered physiotherapists include manual therapy, therapeutic exercise and the application of electrophysical modalities and the physiotherapist's approach is underpinned by an appreciation of the psychological, cultural and social factors that influence their patient or client's active participation in helping themselves to maximise independence and function.

For further information click this link to go to the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy website.

Physiotherapy services in Devon

Physiotherapy Services are mainly based within community hospitals. In some areas physiotherapy sessions are also held within GP practices.

Physiotherapists are also part of the Locality Reablement Teams and may visit people in their own homes if it is appropriate.

Please contact your nearest hospital for details.

Most have their own arrangements for booking appointments.

In the main hospitals there are appointments most weekdays often starting quite early in the morning.

Please note…..

For many physiotherapy assessments you will be required to undress, so if you feel more comfortable bring a pair of shorts and a sleeveless top with you.

Further information

Chartered Society of Physiotherapy – Healthy Lives for All leaflet.