Physiotherapists utilise a variety of treatment methods to provide long-lasting and effective treatment for numerous conditions. Here are 5 common musculoskeletal issues that physiotherapists in Singapore help to treat.
Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is one of the most common conditions affecting Singaporeans of all ages, and is a result of acute or chronic injury to muscles, ligaments, and joints in the region. Symptoms include a constant dull ache, stinging pain that radiates downwards into your feet, numbness, as well as difficulty with movement. While lower back pain may go away on its own, do visit a physiotherapist in Singapore if symptoms persist and result in constant pain and discomfort.
Physiotherapists utilise their skill set to promote recovery and assist in pain management, without the need for relying on painkillers. In addition, they teach patients how to do daily strengthening and mobility exercises at home, reducing the likelihood of recurring injuries. They may also provide advice on how to avoid repeated strain, such as making changes to your work setup, adjusting your sleeping position or modifying your daily activities.
Strains & Sprains
Strains and sprains are highly common injuries incurred during sports. Strains occur due to overstretched or torn muscles or tendons as a result of being forced past their usual range of motion, often as a result of overloading the specific area.. Sprains occur due to overstretched or torn ligaments due to severe stress and trauma, and can also occur to individuals who are in poor physical condition. Strains and sprains share numerous overlapping symptoms, such as pain, swelling, limited flexibility, as well as reduced range of motion. If you experience debilitating pain, inability to move, or numbness and tingling, do seek immediate treatment at a physiotherapy clinic in Singapore.
Depending on the severity of injury, surgery may be required to repair the damaged ligaments or tendons. Following an operation a physiotherapists in Singapore will be a big part of your rehab journey performing techniques such as joint mobilisation and soft tissue work to improve flexibility and healing, as well as rehabilitative exercises to restore function to the affected area. This is particularly important for athletes who need to rebuild their muscle strength and return to their previous training intensity as well as non athlete wanting to return to the daily activities they enjoy.
Arthritis
Arthritis refers to age-related changes of the joint which present with swelling and tenderness of the joint, as well as symptoms including pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion. It frequently occurs as a result of joint cartilage wearing out, or the joint lining experiencing immune system attack. Risk factors for arthritis include family history, age, previous injury, obesity, and sex. While medication provides temporary relief, chronic arthritis can severely impact your quality of life through constant pain and reduced mobility.
Physiotherapists alleviate arthritis in patients in Singapore through joint mobilisation techniques that improve range of motion and reduce swelling and inflammation. They also incorporate stretching and strengthening exercises, which are particularly important for individuals in helping them maintain their ability to handle daily tasks.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition where bone mineral density and mass decrease, usually as a result of reduced bone growth. This weakens bones’ structure and increases the risks of fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine. It is common in older patients and women following menopause, as well as for individuals with a family history of osteoporosis and of a smaller body frame size.
Physiotherapists help patients in Singapore strengthen both their bones and muscles through tailored weight-bearing and strengthening exercises, reducing bone loss and conserving remaining bone tissue as well as improving overall fitness and balance. They also suggest lifestyle tips to help patients, ranging from consuming a balanced diet to engaging in a more active lifestyle in a gradual and safe manner.
Fractures
Fractures are breaks or cracks in a bone due to sudden and excessive pressure, usually at the wrist, hand, ankle, and foot. They frequently occur as a result of falls or engaging in sports involving close contact. Symptoms for fractures include visibly misshapen limbs or joints, swelling, intense pain, along with reduced mobility.
Depending on the severity of the fracture, surgery may first be required to stabilise and realign the broken bone. From there, physiotherapists in Singapore utilise soft tissue massages, stretching exercises, as well as joint mobilisation to facilitate recovery, weight bearing, improving range of motion, as well as reducing pain and swelling.
With physiotherapy clinics in Singapore located at Orchard and Cecil Street, Edge Healthcare provides accessible and quality care to all our patients. Visit our website to find out more about our rates and services.