Some aspects of physiotherapy

Abstract

A physiotherapist was once described as someone· "who switched the heat Iamp on and off and looked decorative." As this was said by a doctor to an audience of physiotherapists some of whom, though not necessarily decorative, were using advanced techniques, it was not considered tactful. But it is possible that in the long and comprehensive span of his medical training he had only heard one lecture on physiotherapy. Even this was probably given by a doctor and not a physiotherapist. The history of physiotherapy is one of change and adaptation. Originally massage and remedial gymnastics formed the basis of the work, but, with advances in electrical equipment, the use of heat, light, faradic and galvanic currents, diathermy variations and ultrasound were introduced. As more patients could be treated by machines than manually, and massage was thought to be too pleasant for the patient, the physiotherapist gave less massage and more exercise and electrical treatments. Now that manipulation is recognised as an important branch of the work, there is a shortage of the sensitive touch necessary, because of lack of massage training and practice.