There are a range of conditions often treated by physical therapy. Whether you have a chronic condition or recently experienced an injury, physical therapy can be a helpful resource. Seeking the right kind of care as soon as possible can have a major impact on your health. This makes understanding terminology important. When looking into treatment options, you may have encountered physiotherapy as well as physical therapy. These two terms are a common source of confusion for people looking to find treatment. You may wonder what makes these terms different and whether one is better than the other.

What is the difference between physical therapy and physiotherapy? The answer is complicated. The terms are sometimes used in different contexts, which can make them seem like different kinds of treatment. However, in most cases they mean the same thing. The National Library of Medicine uses physiotherapy and physical therapy interchangeably. When discussing physical therapy or physiotherapy, the term someone uses may depend on preference and region. In the United States, physical therapy is typically preferred. Other English-speaking countries such as the United Kingdom tend to use physiotherapy. Regardless of the term you prefer, physical therapy or physiotherapy is a valuable form of treatment. Learning about the benefits of this care can reveal why it is popular around the world.

Benefits of physical therapy or physiotherapy

• Pain relief — One of physical therapy’s primary benefits is its effectiveness in managing pain. Physical therapists can use a variety of techniques to help alleviate your painful symptoms. If you experience chronic pain, physical therapy can be highly beneficial for you. One of the most innovative pain relief techniques offered by physical therapists is electrical stimulation. This modality is commonly used for patients with tissue injuries. By blocking pain signals to the brain, electrical stimulation therapy can provide immediate pain relief. The stimulation can also trigger healing processes, leading to long-term benefits.
• Enhanced range of motion — Many different health conditions can limit your mobility. Muscle tension, nerve compression and joint injuries are just some ways your movement can be hindered. Physical therapy aims to restore range of motion. Targeted stretches are one common part of PT treatment plans designed to enhance flexibility. This can help you regain independence in your daily activities.
• Injury recovery — Experiencing a major injury can be debilitating. You may experience chronic discomfort and feel unable to engage with your normal tasks. In many cases, the recovery process can seem long and tedious. This is where physical therapy comes in. With a range of short-term and long-term treatments, you can experience relief while working toward larger milestones. Had a surgical operation for your injury? Physical therapy can play a crucial role in your post-op rehabilitation. A tailored treatment plan can help you gradually return to life as normal.
• Injury prevention — While effective treatment during injury recovery is important, this care is only necessary if you get injured. Want to reduce the risk of being injured in the first place? Physical therapy can help. Your physical therapist can assess your movement patterns and point out any weaknesses or risk factors. Understanding what puts you at risk can help you avoid situations where you might be injured. Improving your flexibility and strength can also help prevent injuries.
• Chronic condition management — Many chronic conditions can benefit from physical therapy. Conditions such as arthritis may not have a known cure, but management is still essential. Physical therapy can help slow down the progress of chronic conditions and maintain your physical capabilities. This can reduce the need for medication and other more invasive treatments. With physical therapy, you can stay comfortable and in control of your chronic condition.
• Tailored treatment — Physical therapy offers a highly individualized approach. Each patient’s treatment plan is tailored to their needs, goals and condition. You can work closely with your physical therapist to ensure that you are receiving treatment that works for you. By making adjustments as needed, your physical therapist can help you reach an optimal outcome.

Lattimore Physical Therapy offers top-notch treatment

Whether you call it physical therapy or physiotherapy, Lattimore Physical Therapy can help you. Our expert team really listens to each patient and strives to provide high-quality care. We offer a range of treatment options so that each patient receives the specialized care they need. With our help, you can receive physical therapy (or physiotherapy) treatment that has a lasting positive impact on your life.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.