What is physical therapy?
Physical therapy is not just about doing exercises. It begins with an assessment of your symptoms, daily activities and goals. Your physiotherapist considers factors that may affect your movement and day-to-day function, then uses the findings to choose an appropriate approach.
Depending on your needs, your treatment plan may include therapeutic exercises, advice on movement and physical activity, ergonomic guidance and hands-on techniques.
The aim is to support your ability to move and help you return safely to daily activities, work or sport.
When should you see a physiotherapist?
You may benefit from an assessment if:
- you have neck, back, muscle or joint pain;
- your movement has become restricted or certain activities cause discomfort;
- you are recovering from an injury;
- you are preparing for surgery or recovering afterwards;
- you experience recurring symptoms or overuse problems during sport;
- you need a personalised exercise programme, help with exercise technique or ergonomic advice.
You can also see a physiotherapist before problems arise, for example to have your movement assessed or get advice on suitable physical activity.
What happens during a physical therapy appointment?
Your appointment begins with a conversation about your symptoms, health history, daily activities and goals.
Depending on your needs, your physiotherapist then assesses joint mobility, muscle function and movement patterns. Additional orthopaedic or neurological tests may be used where appropriate.
The findings form the basis of your personalised treatment plan. Your physiotherapist explains what to focus on during recovery, teaches you suitable exercises and helps you choose a manageable level of activity.
Where appropriate, your programme may include additional methods, such as manual therapy or kinesiology taping. These are selected based on your individual assessment.
A personalised exercise programme
The aim is not to give you as many exercises as possible, but to select those that match your needs and goals.
Your physiotherapist teaches you the correct technique, helps you choose an appropriate level of difficulty and adjusts the programme as your recovery progresses. This gives you the guidance you need to continue exercising independently between appointments.
When further assessment is needed
The content of your physiotherapy programme and the methods used depend on your health and the assessment findings.
If your physiotherapist identifies a need for an initial or additional assessment by another healthcare professional, they will advise you on the next steps.
Frequently asked questions
Is physical therapy just about exercises?
No. Exercise is one part of physiotherapy. An appointment may include movement and functional assessment, therapeutic exercises, advice on physical activity, ergonomic guidance and, where appropriate, hands-on techniques.
Can physical therapy help with persistent pain?
Physical therapy may form part of an approach to managing persistent pain. Your physiotherapist assesses your movement, daily physical demands and activities, then helps you find suitable ways to exercise and stay active.
Can I see a physiotherapist after an injury or surgery?
Yes. Physiotherapy is used in rehabilitation after injuries and surgery. Suitable exercises and activity levels depend on the nature of the injury, your stage of recovery and any relevant instructions from your treating doctor.
How many appointments will I need?
The number of appointments depends on your symptoms, goals and progress. After the initial assessment, your physiotherapist will recommend a plan and adjust it as needed based on your response.
Does Profysio work with Tervisekassa?
Profysio does not currently work with Tervisekassa. Physical therapy appointments are privately paid for according to our current price list.