What is the difference between Physiotherapy and Remedial Massage???
Often when seeking injury attention, it is difficult to know where to go or who to see. Today we help you answer this question.
Below are a couple of key differences which should help you better understand when to visit your local Redfern Physiotherapy therapist, and who to book your consultation with.
Physiotherapist
Massage Therapist
Diagnosis – Ability to identify specific illness or injury based on an examination of symptoms.
Assessment – Provide a detailed assessment of condition with greater emphasis initially on consultation and education.
Sudden severe pain – Acute injuries requiring more frequent treatment should seek advice from a physio.
Variety of techniques – Offer a range of techniques including: dry needling, exercise prescription & manual therapy.
Investigative Scans – Ability to refer for further diagnostic testing (e.g. x-rays) or to medical specialists.
Prognosis – Ability to provide an experienced professional opinion on the likelihood of an outcome.
Less talky, more touchy – More hands- on time to really get stuck into those tight muscles.
Ongoing maintenance – After initial treatments, there will likely be longer periods between massages, and sessions are focussed on maintaining your level of mobility
No more stress! – Promotes stress relief and relaxation for the busy modern day workers lifestyle
Race day! – Sports massage before and after an event has proven beneficial for performance and limiting the dreaded DOMS! (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness)
Physio v Remedial Massage
Both Physiotherapists and Remedial Massage Therapists can prescribe their patients with rehabilitation programs which may include mobility, strength, and postural alignment exercises. These two disciplines work hand in hand and complement each other so for best results it is recommended to take a holistic approach and our therapists at RPSM work closely with each other to ensure you are given the best possible tailored treatments for a speedy recovery.
Hopefully this helps distinguish between the 2 disciplines and we look forward to seeing you all in the Redfern Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine clinic to assist with any of your health-related needs.
