About Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy involves the treatment of the body by using different physical modalities. This could be direct pressure using the hands, movement & exercise, electrical stimulus, heat and cold or a variety of other techniques.

The basis of modern physiotherapy stems from the Royal Charter granted in 1920 which set out the ‘4 Pillars of Practice’.

To celebrate the Centenary in 2020 the original, somewhat archaic, wording of these were updated to reflect a more modern approach. The 4 Pillars are now

Manual Therapy & Therapeutic Handling – This includes joint mobilisation and manipulation, soft tissue massage, trigger point release, myofascial release and passive stretching for example.

Therapeutic & Diagnostic Technologies – For us this means employing electrotherapy modalities such as Therapeutic Ultrasound, Interferential & TENS, Pulsed Electromagnetic Energy and Laser Therapy.

Exercise, Movement & Rehabilitation – The human body is designed to move. Appropriately prescribed exercises can improve or maintain function, as well as increasing range of movement and strength. It also promotes blood flow, which is good for the healing process, as well as relaxation.

Allied Approaches – This allows for the profession to change and grow by adopting new ideas, techniques, and technologies over a period of time.’

Whichever treatment modalities are chosen the underlying reasons for their use are to,

• Decrease Pain
• Increase Joint Mobility
• Improve Muscle function
• Promote Healing

By achieving these four factors the overall function of the body is improved.

Here at Saltergate Physiotherapy Clinic we strongly believe in standing firmly on all 4 Pillars of Practice.

Choose a Chartered Physiotherapist – By choosing a Chartered Physiotherapist you ensure yourself of a high standard of safe practice.

Chartered physiotherapists hold internationally recognised qualifications. Their initial training consists of a three year course to degree level.

Once qualified they continue to build on their knowledge and experience. They have a strong commitment to continuing professional development ensuring that they stay up to date with current treatments and techniques.

A Chartered Physiotherapist will have the letters MCSP after their name.

The title 'Physiotherapist' is legally protected and only members of the Health and Care Professions Council are allowed to use it.

The HCPC is a national regulatory body set up to protect the public from bogus practitioners. They hold a publicly available list of qualified practitioners so that you can check on their credentials should you wish.

Here at Saltergate Physiotherapy Clinic all of our physiotherapists are Chartered as well as HCPC registered.

They are also members of Physiofirst, a professional body specifically for physiotherapists who practice in the field of private healthcare.

Is your therapist registered? Go to www.hpc-uk.org to find out.