Physiotherapists assess, treat and prevent disorders in human movement caused by injury and disease.

Physiotherapists may perform the following tasks:

• assess the physical condition of patients to diagnose problems and plan appropriate treatment
• use a range of techniques to strengthen and stretch muscles and joints to improve patient mobility. They may use hydrotherapy, breathing and relaxation techniques
• perform spinal and peripheral joint mobilisation and manipulation
• use equipment such as traction, weights, exercise equipment, cold packs and electrical treatments to ease pain, reduce swelling and improve range of movement
• retrain patients to walk or to use devices such as walking frames, splints, crutches and wheelchairs
• educate patients, their families and the community to lead a healthy lifestyle and to prevent injury and disability
• plan and implement community fitness programs
• maintain patient records.

Physiotherapists may specialise in specific areas such as manipulative therapy, women's health, aged care, chest conditions, occupational health and safety, sports medicine, babies and young children, problems of the nervous system and spinal injuries, administration, education and research.

Physiotherapists may work as part of a health care team, independently in private practice, within the school system or as industry consultants.

The Job Guide Book

Further information can be found at:

Light Exercise
Reflexology
Hydrotherapy
Massage
Eletro Therapy - TENS
Acupuncture