Physiotherapy is very helpful in preventing injuries and increasing mobility, not just recovery and restoration.
AN AGING POPULATION
We live in a society with an aging population, and many of us should live much longer lives than our grandparents due to improvements in technology and medicine. As we age however, different parts of our body tend to stop working as they should, but this doesn’t mean we can’t still lead healthy and active lives.
AGING CONDITIONS PHYSIO CAN HELP
There are many issues related to aging that can be prevented, treated, or managed by physiotherapy as part of a comprehensive wellness regime.
Older adults may suffer from a range of conditions or issues, including-
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Heart/Lung Disease
- back pain
- joint pain
- muscle stiffness
- ligament damage
- inflammation
- lack of mobility or balance
MAIN TREATMENTS AND BENEFITS OF PHYSIO FOR THE ELDERLY
Whether in a local Physiotherapy practice, residential care facility, hospital or at home, physiotherapists can assist all stages from new retirees, to those at the end of their life.
The general aim of physiotherapy for the elderly is to support them not just to remain independent and active, but to also improve their overall health and well-being.
The assessment and intervention by a physiotherapist is also useful to prevent and treat falls, and can be effective in managing their long-term health conditions.
Physiotherapists can assist with a range of chronic conditions and are trained to address these with non-invasive assessment treatment techniques. They commonly implement a range of treatment modalities aimed at preventing deterioration or restoring function and improving activity levels, resulting in seniors staying happy and moving freely. It’s a ‘move it or lose it’ type situation!
Common Treatment Strategies include –
- Strength and conditioning training
- Falls training and Safe Step balance classes
- Massage and manual therapy
- Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
- Hydrotherapy
- Mobility aids
Common Benefits include –
- Treatment of Pain
- Safe Exercise
- Build Strength and Stability
- Social Benefits
- Non-invasive and non-pharmaceutical treatment
- Pre and Post Surgery Strength and Recovery
- Mental Health Benefits
- Independence!
FALLS PREVENTION
At least one third of people aged 65 and over have a fall each year, and this can result in serious injuries such as hip fractures and hospitalisation.
Little niggles and pains can make us more unsteady on our feet and less active. Then more inactive people tend to have poor balance and weak muscles which increases the risk of falls. It’s a vicious cycle!
Seeing a Physio can ensure –
- You get treatment for those niggles
- Potential problems can be picked up, before they become an issue
- Activities and exercises can be introduced to improve balance and strength
- You are assessed to see if you need a walking aid to increase confidence and mobility.
URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS IN SENIORS
The incidence of UTIs appears to increase with age, and those with diabetes, men with prostate problems and long-term care residents are all in the high risk category. Often classic signs are absent in the elderly, and infection can show as confusion, falls or fever, and then turn to serious complications if not treated.
Physiotherapy can help with training, education and exercises to prevent UTIs in seniors and with:
- Improving the condition of their pelvic floor
- Emptying the bladder more efficiently
- Creating better bowel habits
- Promoting full relaxation of the pelvic-floor when voiding
GET STARTED TODAY!
You are never too young or too old to improve your physical and mental well-being. If you’re considering physiotherapy in Sandgate and surrounding north Brisbane suburbs, contact the friendly and experienced Physiotherapy team at Sandgate Physical Health Clinic on 3869 1099.