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Physiotherapy helps restore movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness or disability.

How do you get to see a physiotherapist? Find out about access options here.

Find a qualified physiotherapist near you with our Physio2U directory

Physiotherapists help people affected by injury, illness or disability through movement and exercise, manual therapy, education and advice.

They maintain health for people of all ages, helping patients to manage pain and prevent disease.

The profession helps to encourage development and facilitate recovery, enabling people to stay in work while helping them remain independent for as long as possible.

Physio checking knee joint flexibility

What physiotherapists do

Read the evidence

Our Physiotherapy Works briefings demonstrate the effectiveness of physiotherapy in treating a wide range of conditions

Physiotherapy is a science-based profession and takes a ‘whole person’ approach to health and wellbeing, which includes the patient’s general lifestyle.

At the core is the patient’s involvement in their own care, through education, awareness, empowerment and participation in their treatment.

You can benefit from physiotherapy at any time in your life. Physiotherapy helps with back pain or sudden injury, managing long-term medical condition such as asthma, and in preparing for childbirth or a sporting event.

Physio checking fitness level of patient on a treadmill

Why physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a degree-based healthcare profession. Physios use their knowledge and skills to improve a range of conditions associated with different systems of the body, such as:

Neurological (stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s).

Neuromusculoskeletal (back pain, whiplash associated disorder, sports injuries, arthritis).

Cardiovascular (chronic heart disease, rehabilitation after heart attack).

Respiratory (asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis).

Physiotherapists work in a variety of specialisms in health and social care. Additionally, some physiotherapists are involved in education, research and service management.

So, what should you take note when looking for a physiotherapist in Singapore?

Below are the most important things you must consider in finding the most suitable physiotherapist.

Area of Specialization.

Physiotherapists are required to complete years of study and undergo training to acquire their qualifications. But they can further their expertise in various areas of specialisations, such as mental health, sports injury, care of the aged, ergonomics and office set up, stroke rehabilitation, respiratory problems, spine and head injuries, and recovery after surgery. You should choose a physiotherapist who specialises in your needs. For instance, if you have an injury, you may need to see a physiotherapist who specialises in injury. However, physiotherapists don’t have to have a specialisation as they can have a general practice that caters to a range of conditions. It would be ideal to work with a physiotherapist that is AHPC registered.

Methods of Treatment.

Traditionally, physiotherapists train in movement and exercise, manipulation and electrotherapy, and massage. It is essential to know their methods of treatment in case you have a preference for a particular treatment type to relieve your pain. Some physiotherapists may offer alternative treatments to replace the traditional methods of relieving pain like reflexology, hydrotherapy, reiki, shiatsu, different types of massage, and others. Ask the physiotherapist if your preferred method of treatment is available in their health centre or clinic.

Some health centre or clinic may have alternative health care professionals to treat patients aside from the physiotherapist, which include a massage therapist, life coach, Pilates coach or osteopath.