While it may seem like your injury or pain has dragged on longer than a reality television show, healing can take time even with the right help. Which probably leaves you wondering, how long does physiotherapy take to work?
It’s almost like asking the age old question of how long is a piece of string? In reality, the time for physiotherapy to work depends on a variety of factors.
To find out more about the types of treatment and how long physiotherapy can take to work, continue reading below or give the team at North West Physiotherapy a call on (07) 3353 4111.
Common Complaints and Treatment Times
The number of physiotherapy appointments required will vary depending on factors involving the client (e.g. work or sport commitments) and the condition (e.g. severity, time of onset). Some of the most common complaints and expected treatment times are;
- Lower Back Pain – 3-8 sessions pending on severity
- Wry Neck (waking up with a sore, restricted neck) – 2-4 sessions
- Tennis Elbow – 3-6 sessions
- Ankle Sprain – 3-8 sessions
What can delay results?
There are several factors that need to be considered when measuring the effect of physiotherapy:
- Client’s age and general health status.
- Injury/disease commencement (how long ago?) and progression.
- Injury/disease severity.
- Other current and past health conditions/issues.
- Occupation/hobbies etc.
- Current/previous sport and exercise.
- Compliance with physiotherapy-recommended modifications and home exercise program.
When you should stop seeing a physio
If you are not seeing progress with physiotherapy, discuss other options with your therapist such as seeing your GP or undergoing an investigation (e.g. x-ray, MRI).
It is important to continue seeing your physiotherapist until they are happy to discharge you from their care. This ensures your injury/condition is completely rehabilitated, while also giving you the best possible chance that your symptoms will not re-occur in the future.
What you can expect from North West Physio
The team at North West Physiotherapy will make you aware from your first appointment how long you might expect treatment to take.
From your first physiotherapy session, you can expect a thorough assessment to determine your diagnosis. Your physiotherapist will perform varying, well-researched assessment techniques to identify the problematic sources of your symptoms.
Once your diagnosis is confirmed, your physiotherapist will discuss the prognosis and expected rehabilitation pathway as well as answer any questions you may have regarding this.
Following completion of this, treatment techniques e.g. massage, joint mobilizations can be implemented to assist with relieving your symptoms. Commonly, physiotherapists will also provide you a Home Exercise Program at your initial session to ‘kick-start’ your rehabilitation.
How long does physiotherapy take to work?
Don’t delay treatment any longer for that injury or pain. Come and see us at North West Physiotherapy today, we’re happy to discuss all your options with you. Call us on (07) 3353 4111.
North West Physiotherapy is your one-stop pain relief and healthy living practice in Brisbane. With six clinics across North Brisbane; Everton Park, Keperra, Eatons Hill, Nundah, Lutchwyche and Newmarket, our aim is to provide holistic healthcare solution to suit your specific lifestyle.
Our services include Physiotherapy, Sports Physio, Hydrotherapy, Pilates, Podiatry, Dry Needling, Massage, Womens Health, and Seniors Strength and Balance Classes. Please note that services vary across our clinics.
Contact your local clinic to book an appointment.
