Does a physiotherapy perform physiotherapy?

A physiotherapist reviews your symptoms, medical history, movement, strength, balance, and functional goals. Treatment may include education, therapeutic exercise, hands-on techniques, movement retraining, or advice about daily activity. The plan can address pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, weakness, recovery after injury, or difficulty with tasks such as walking and reaching. The therapist adjusts the programme as your response changes, so the first appointment may focus more on assessment and explanation than on treatment.

Before the visit, write down when symptoms began, what makes them better or worse, and which activities you want to regain. Bring relevant reports and a list of medicines. Wear clothing that permits movement of the area being assessed. Be open about your activity level and any fear of movement. Between visits, complete only the exercises you were shown, using the agreed technique, and tell the therapist if symptoms change rather than silently pushing through worsening pain.

Seek urgent medical assessment for chest pain, severe shortness of breath, sudden weakness, new facial drooping, or new loss of bladder or bowel control. After an injury, urgent review is needed when a limb looks deformed, becomes cold or pale, or cannot bear weight. Tell your physiotherapist about rapidly worsening symptoms so they can pause treatment and direct you to appropriate medical care.

What is the main functional problem we are treating? What should I do at home? How will progress be checked? Which symptoms mean I should contact you or seek another medical review?