What Is Geriatric Physiotherapy?
Geriatric physiotherapy is a specialized form of physical therapy designed for individuals exhibiting symptoms of musculoskeletal conditions or undergoing treatment for such ailments. The primary goals of geriatric physiotherapy are to expedite the patient’s recovery through regular therapy sessions, develop coping strategies to aid in the recovery process, and prevent the occurrence of secondary issues. Focused on addressing musculoskeletal challenges, this branch of physiotherapy targets how the body’s muscles and joints interact, whether it pertains to the feet, ankles, legs, hands, arms, shoulders, back, or neck. Injuries affecting movement, causing pain, or hindering mobility can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.
How Does Geriatric Physiotherapy Work?
Individualized treatment plans are crafted based on the patient’s initial assessment. Post-treatment, exercise plans and guidance are routinely provided, with the number of sessions contingent upon the patient’s progress. Geriatric physiotherapists specialize in assessing and treating musculoskeletal issues such as tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome, armed with advanced training in methods specifically applicable to these disorders. A significant portion of their patient population experiences pain associated with muscle and joint problems, often manifesting in the back and neck.
Some Treatment Options Include:
Benefits of Geriatric Physiotherapy:
Geriatric physiotherapy contributes to patient recovery and an enhanced quality of life in several ways:
- Improves muscle strength and flexibility
- Enhances range of motion, ease, and quality of movement
- Refines coordination and control of motion
- Alleviates or eliminates pain
- Assists patients in developing coping strategies for managing pain or difficulties in performing daily activities during the recovery process
- Aids in achieving physical exercise or fitness goals
- Instructs and reinforces healthy movement patterns to reduce the risk of developing musculoskeletal problems in the future
Conditions Treated:
Musculoskeletal conditions are typically characterized by chronic pain and limitations in mobility, dexterity, and functional capacity, impacting individuals’ ability to work and participate in social roles with consequent effects on mental well-being. Common and disabling musculoskeletal conditions addressed by geriatric physiotherapy include osteoarthritis, back and neck pain, fractures related to bone fragility, injuries, and systemic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.