5 Signs You Need to See a Physiotherapist
Seeking physiotherapy can be a game-changer for managing pain, improving mobility, and preventing long-term health issues. However, many people are unsure of when to take that step. If you’ve been experiencing discomfort or limitations in your daily activities, it might be time to consider physiotherapy. Here are five signs that indicate you could benefit from seeing a physiotherapist.
1. Ongoing Pain or Discomfort
Pain that lingers longer than expected or keeps coming back isn’t something to ignore. Whether it’s nagging back pain, aching joints, or tension in your neck and shoulders, chronic pain can interfere with your daily life. A physiotherapist can assess the root cause and develop a personalized treatment plan to reduce pain and restore function.
2. Difficulty Moving or Stiffness
If you’re noticing stiffness or difficulty moving a joint through its full range of motion, it could be due to muscle imbalances, joint restrictions, or a sedentary lifestyle. Reduced flexibility can make everyday movements, like bending, reaching, or turning, feel challenging. Physiotherapy can help improve mobility through guided exercises, stretching techniques, and hands-on therapy.
3. Recovering from Injury or Surgery
Recovering from surgery—whether it’s a knee replacement, rotator cuff repair, or another procedure—often requires guided rehabilitation. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in regaining strength, mobility, and function while preventing complications like stiffness or muscle atrophy. Similarly, if you’ve experienced an injury, physiotherapy can help speed up healing and reduce the risk of re-injury.
4. Struggling with Everyday Activities
If simple activities like getting up from a chair, climbing stairs, or carrying groceries feel harder than they used to, it may be a sign that your strength, endurance, or coordination needs improvement. Physiotherapists can help build functional strength and provide strategies to make daily tasks easier and more comfortable.
5. Concerns About Pelvic Health
Pelvic floor issues, including incontinence, pelvic pain, or discomfort during daily activities, are common but often overlooked. These concerns can affect both men and women, particularly after childbirth or surgery. Physiotherapists with expertise in pelvic health can help strengthen and retrain the pelvic floor muscles, improving function and reducing discomfort.
Taking the Next Step
If any of these signs sound familiar, it may be time to consult a physiotherapist. Addressing these issues early can prevent them from worsening and improve your overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with pain, mobility limitations, recovering from an injury, or struggling with daily activities, physiotherapy can provide the tools and support needed to help you move and feel better.
If you're in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and looking for physiotherapy services, book an appointment with Higher State Health and Wellness Club today to start your journey toward feeling your best.
Written by: Erin McKinnon, Physiotherapy Resident
