Orthopedic physiotherapy is a branch of rehabilitation dedicated to restoring motor functions compromised by trauma, surgery, chronic conditions, or musculoskeletal disorders. It is a personalized treatment aimed at regaining mobility, strength, and functionality, while improving the patient’s quality of life.
Let’s take a closer look at what it involves, when it is recommended, and the benefits it can offer.
What is orthopedic physiotherapy?
It is a specialized form of rehabilitation that focuses on the musculoskeletal system: muscles, bones, tendons, joints, and ligaments. The treatment is always tailored to the individual, following a thorough evaluation by the orthopedic physiotherapist, and can take place in an outpatient clinic, a rehabilitation gym, or even at home.
When it is recommended
Orthopedic physiotherapy is beneficial in several cases, including:
- post-operative recovery (prostheses, fractures, ligament reconstructions);
- acute injuries (sports trauma, sprains, recent fractures);
- chronic conditions (tendinopathies, osteoarthritis, chronic low back pain, fasciitis);
- postural or biomechanical disorders.
Key benefits
A well-structured orthopedic treatment can:
- reduce pain and inflammation;
- restore joint mobility;
- increase muscle strength and endurance;
- improve balance and coordination;
- prevent relapses and postural compensations.
Types of rehabilitation
- Post-operative: helps regain independence, avoid stiffness, and reduce scar tissue formation.
- Post-traumatic: supports recovery from recent injuries by controlling pain and swelling.
- For chronic injuries: addresses persistent issues caused by overload or poor posture.
Which treatments are used?
Some of the most common techniques include:
- manual therapy and joint mobilizations;
- active therapeutic exercises;
- soft tissue treatment;
- electrotherapy, laser therapy, or ultrasound;
- dry needling, kinesio taping, traction, hydrotherapy.
