20 December 2024
Fatema Ebrahim, Physiotherapist
Physiotherapy is a holistic approach to healing that not only focuses on physical rehabilitation but also considers psychosocial factors that can significantly impact a patient's recovery journey. While physical exercises and techniques play a crucial role, understanding and addressing psychosocial factors are equally important for successful outcomes in physiotherapy.
The interplay of mind and body incorporate a number of important areas. Psychosocial factors encompass emotional wellbeing which includes stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which can affect pain perception and tolerance levels. We know that patients experiencing high levels of stress or anxiety may have difficulty engaging in physiotherapy exercises or sticking to their treatment plans.
A strong support system consisting of family, friends, or community support groups can positively influence a patient's motivation, their adherence to treatment and their overall wellbeing during the rehabilitation process. Conversely, a lack of social support may lead to feelings of isolation and hinder the patient’s progress.
Cognitive factors including attention span, memory and executive functioning also play a key role in learning and effectively executing physiotherapy exercises. Patients with cognitive impairments may require tailored interventions and additional support to ensure that they fully understand and adhere to their treatment plans.
In addition, the patient-therapist relationship is crucial. Building a trusting and collaborative relationship between the patient and their physiotherapist is essential for effective communication, goal setting and treatment adherence. A positive therapeutic alliance will foster open dialogue, enhance motivation, and promote patient empowerment during the rehabilitation process.
Clear and empathetic communication between the physiotherapist and the patient facilitates shared decision-making, encourages active participation and addresses any concerns or barriers to treatment. Educating the patient about their condition, their treatment options and expected outcomes gives them the power to take ownership of their health.
Environmental factors and sociocultural influences must also be considered when embarking on a physiotherapy regime. Factors such as access to healthcare services and transportation, as well as the patient’s home environment, can impact their ability to attend physiotherapy sessions regularly and perform exercises at home. Ascertaining and addressing any environmental barriers is essential for optimising treatment outcomes.
When it comes to cultural beliefs and values, studies have shown that these can significantly influence patients’ perceptions of health and illness, as well as treatment approaches. Physiotherapists must consider cultural diversity and incorporate culturally sensitive practices into their treatment plans, to ensure they are relevant and effective for each individual client.
Incorporating psychosocial considerations into physiotherapy practice enhances holistic care by addressing the interconnectedness of mind, body and social context. By recognising and addressing psychosocial factors, physiotherapists can optimise treatment outcomes, promote patient-centered care, and support individuals on their journey toward recovery and improved quality of life.
As a physiotherapist, I see different joint pain cases in elderly clients almost on a daily basis. Physical activity plays a crucial role in improving joint pain among the elderly population. As individuals age, joint pain, often stemming from conditions like osteoarthritis, becomes increasingly common. However, regular physical activity can significantly alleviate this pain and improve overall joint health. Read more
Our lives have changed dramatically over the past 50 years with advancements in technology making many physical tasks easier. However, these changes have also affected how we spend much of our time, meaning that most of our waking lives are now spent sitting. Recent studies have found Read more
Biokinetics, or kinesiology, is often assumed to be personal training, which is just not the case. Biokinetics is a proudly South African profession that is relatively new to allied health, having only started in 1980s. A biokineticist is a specialist who uses exercise as a modality for therapy. They will use exercise prescription for the treatment of chronic conditions, the rehabilitation of injuries and science-based evidence to improve sports and physical performance, while ensuring a person has the best quality of life Read more
Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem such as chronic pain, limited mobility, recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury) and repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. The purpose of deep tissue massage is to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas. It can help to alleviate chronic pain, reduce stress, and improve posture. Read more
When considering exercise, we often think of going to the gym to lift heavy weights, use machines or even playing a sport as part of a team. However, there are many other forms of exercise that are inexpensive and don’t require you to join a sports team or gym. Some of these exercises can be done from the comfort of your very own home and don’t require a lot, if any, equipment. One such form of exercise is body weight exercise. Read more
A SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) injury involves damage to the labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint. This type of injury can be particularly challenging for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, as it affects shoulder stability and range of motion. Read more
A slipped disc, also known as a herniated or prolapsed disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc protrudes through a tear in the tougher exterior. This condition can cause pain, numbness, and weakness, often in the lower back or neck, depending on the location of the herniation. Many people wonder if a slipped disc can resorb non-surgically, and the good news is that in many cases, it can. Read more
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) is a manual therapy technique used by physiotherapists and healthcare professionals to release fascia, a connective tissue that surrounds the muscles, nerves, blood vessels and organs. It involves the use of specially designed instruments to apply controlled pressure and friction to targeted areas of the body, promoting the breakdown of adhesions, scar tissue and fascial restrictions. Read more
There are several types of headaches, each characterised by distinct symptoms and causes. Osteopathy, a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, can offer relief for certain types of headaches. Osteopathy can be a valuable complementary approach in managing headaches, but it should not replace conventional medical care or other necessary treatments. Read more
