Physiotherapy VS Physical Therapy Services - What Is the Difference?

Physio, also referred to as physical therapy, can be considered an ancient science, having been used even during the time of Hippocrates, the father of medicine. In modern times, it has grown from simple massaging techniques to more complicated treatments using manual therapy, modalities such as electric current, and ultraviolet light, among others, to address a musculo-skeletal injury or condition.

Early Beginnings of Physical Therapy

In 460 BC, a Greek physician named Hector practiced a technique he called hydrotherapy, which means water treatment in Greek. The UK recognized physical therapy in 1894 as a specialized branch of nursing speciality, which then was regulated by the Chartered Society. Shortly after, official physiotherapy programs were offered by countries such as New Zealand in 1913, and the U.S in 1914. In the United States, the term physical therapy is generally used, and the first recorded practice of physical therapy was noted in the Walter Reed College and Hospital in Portland, Oregon.

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) established an orthopedic division for physical therapists specializing in orthopedics and become a specialized branch in 1974. Also in 1974, the International Federation of Orthopedic Manipulative Therapy was established. This signaled the progress in the practice of physical therapy worldwide.

The development of computers and new technology gave the physiotherapy industry a boost, and newer treatment methods and techniques were discovered, which included electrical stimulators and other electronic apparatus. Walking into a physical therapy clinic today, you have access to a variety of therapy options directly related to physical therapy as well as additional services such as massage therapy, chiropractic and even naturopathic medicine. Sports therapists are known to use the widest array of tools and equipments. A visit to a sports therapy clinic will get you acquainted with the different sports rehabilitation equipments such as mobility stations, whirlpool baths, and hydrotherapy machines as well as massage creams and oils.

The practice further flourished in the United States and then Canada, with the enactment into law of the Americans with the Disabilities Act in 1990, and the establishment of the National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research. However, the practice continues to face a number of challenges, arising from a reduction in government spending, increasing governmental regulations, decreasing reimbursement issues, and the increase in the supply of personnel, which has exceeded the demand for services.

Why These Terms Are Labeled Differently

Health industry observers stress that the terms physical therapy and physiotherapy are both interchangeable. In the U.S.A, the term "physical therapy" is widely used; whereas "physiotherapy" is often employed in countries including Canada, Australia and United Kingdom. Physiotherapists are generally involved in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries, cardio-respiratory ailments as well as the treatment of head injuries and stroke.

A Physiotherapist's Job Description

Physiotherapists are medical and health science professionals who treat people with physical impairments and disabilities, which come as a result of an injury, illness, birth defect or aging. Physiotherapists also treat individuals of all ages, ranging from children to the elderly. They also treat stroke victims and people who have sport-related injuries. Some health experts also assist patients in identifying and improving their physical function and movement. They also aid in the rehabilitation effort, through restoring the patient's body systems, particularly the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Physiotherapists are also responsible for crafting and reviewing treatment programs. The treatment modalities may come in the form of manual therapy, assisted therapeutic exercises, and the application of equipments and other technological tools such as ultrasound and x-ray. Physiotherapists also offer consultation services, to teach people how to avoid serious injuries, as well as how to employ do-it-yourself stretching and other exercise modalities at home. Physical therapists also work in other types of settings. Some of these settings include health care centers, hospital, private practice clinics, nursing homes, and health clubs. They also treat a number of conditions, ranging from injuries and fractures, bone, joint and muscle disorders, intensive-care. In some settings physical therapists provide care for terminal illness patients, obstetrics and gynecology, severe neurological ailments and disorders, learning and developmental impairments, as well as mental illnesses.