There is a definite benefit to finding the right physiotherapist – which is the same as a physical therapist – to address your condition and to help improve your quality of life.
The right physiotherapist to help treat you might be determined by your particular condition, your occupation, and your age. Let’s explore some of the main things to look for in a physiotherapist:
Professional Reference From Your Doctor
Some insurance companies will not allow a patient to choose a physiotherapist without first getting a referral from their personal physician. Therefore, before making an appointment to see a physical therapist, check with your doctor.
Qualifications of the Physiotherapist
Education and training of a physical therapist is vital in determining whether they have the right background to treat your particular health condition. Also, check to see whether they’re certified to treat patients, and whether they’re licensed to practice physical therapy in your state.
Each state has different requirements for licensing. Most states require a physiotherapist to have a graduate degree in the field.
Physical therapists must also pass the national physical therapy exam (NPTE). Board certification is voluntary, but a physiotherapist must first be licensed before being eligible for board certification.
Participation in Continuing Education
Physiotherapists are expected to know the latest treatments, methods, and research in the field of physical therapy. They may also receive specialized and ongoing training in certain areas of rehabilitation.
For instance, if you are an athlete with a sports-related injury, a therapist with advanced training in sports therapy will be able to create focused treatment plans and personalized rehabilitation for your exact type of injury.
Chemistry With the Therapist
Personality isn’t everything, but chemistry between the patient and physiotherapist can positively or negatively affect the patient’s progress. The patient must be willing and able to follow through on treatment and exercises prescribed by the physical therapist – and the better you “click” with your physiotherapist, the better your therapy sessions and results will be.
Specialized Areas of Physiotherapy
Find a physiotherapist who specializes in your area of need. For example, if your issue is related to your gender – such as osteoporosis, pregnancy, or pelvic pain – then it’s imperative that your physiotherapist specializes in women’s health.
Professionalism
A physiotherapist should behave in a professional manner. They should not be overly casual, overly strict, or have a negative or condescending attitude.
The therapist should also have a professional appearance. This is equally true of the facility in which the patient is treated, which should be clean and tidy and have excellent equipment.
Empathy
Choose a physiotherapist who understands your situation and your particular needs. A physiotherapist must sometimes nudge the patient to push harder in order to get the maximum benefit from therapy, and this nudge shouldn’t feel discouraging or nasty.
Physical Therapist in Ohio
Take the time to find the right physiotherapist for your needs. It will prove to be beneficial over time.
Our physiotherapy team at Suburban Physical Therapy includes specialists in a wide variety of fields, and we have the right one for you. Contact us today by calling our Brecksville location at (440) 746-1730 or our Twinsburg location at (330) 963-2920 to schedule an appointment.
If you prefer, you can also fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you and helping you get back to the active lifestyle you enjoy.
