Most people understand the benefits of physiotherapy and how it can help, but not many know that there are many different types to address specific conditions, from sports injuries to post-surgery rehabilitation.
Learn more: 4 Benefits of Physiotherapy
Each type of physiotherapy targets specific health concerns using a combination of hands-on manual and exercise-based techniques to enhance recovery and improve overall well-being.
Keep reading to explore the most common types of physiotherapy in Singapore, how they work, and how they can help you.
1. Musculoskeletal physiotherapy
Also known as orthopaedic physiotherapy, musculoskeletal physiotherapy treats conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, which consists of the muscles, bones, joints, nerves, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and spinal discs. Common conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and joint dysfunction often fall under this category, especially among individuals with sedentary lifestyles or poor posture.
Treatment typically involves a combination of stretching, strengthening exercises, spinal manipulation, and manual therapy. This aims to address the root cause of discomfort, which may restore mobility, flexibility, and long-term pain relief, supporting patients in regaining function in their daily activities.
2. Sports physiotherapy
As its name suggests, sports physiotherapy focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing sports-related injuries. Whether you’re a beginner, an amateur athlete, or a professional, sports physiotherapy is used to support recovery from muscle strains, ligament sprains, or joint injuries while improving strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Beyond rehabilitation, sports physiotherapy is also used in injury prevention and movement training. Many athletes incorporate it into their training routine to refine movement patterns and build resilience, potentially enhancing their lifespan in their sport. It can also be part of post-surgery rehabilitation, assisting in athletes’ recovery and return to physical activity.
3. Vestibular physiotherapy
Vestibular physiotherapy may be less heard of but is designed to help individuals suffering from dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders. These symptoms can arise from inner ear dysfunction or neck-related issues, causing a spinning sensation, lightheadedness, or frequent headaches.
Learn more: Vertigo 101: Everything You Need to Know About Vertigo
This type of physiotherapy focuses on balance training and gaze stabilisation exercises to reduce dizziness and help patients regain control over their movements. By improving spatial awareness and coordination, vestibular physiotherapy aims to contribute to improved daily function and a reduced risk of falls.
4. Geriatric physiotherapy
While most forms of physiotherapy cater to people of all ages, geriatric physiotherapy is specifically designed for older adults experiencing age-related conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, joint replacements, and mobility issues.
The primary goal of geriatric physiotherapy is to restore strength, balance, and independence, which may help seniors maintain a more active and pain-free lifestyle. By focusing on fall prevention, mobility training, and functional exercises, this form of physiotherapy is designed to support elderly individuals in performing their daily activities.
5. Neurological Physiotherapy
Neurological physiotherapy primarily supports individuals with conditions affecting the nervous system, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.
Patients with these disorders often experience impaired movement, muscle weakness, coordination issues, and loss of balance. Physiotherapy aims to retrain the nervous system through guided exercises, mobility training, and neuroplasticity-based rehabilitation techniques. This can assist individuals in adapting to physical changes and improve their strength, coordination, and mobility.
6. Paediatric Physiotherapy
Paediatric physiotherapy focuses on helping infants and children with movement challenges due to conditions like cerebral palsy, developmental delays, and scoliosis. Treatment is often play-based and encourages strength, coordination, and motor skills. Early intervention can play a key role in proper development, helping children move confidently and freely as they grow.
7. Women’s Health Physiotherapy
Women’s health physiotherapy focuses on conditions related to pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Many women experience musculoskeletal pain, incontinence, and abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti) during and after pregnancy, which can impact daily activities and overall well-being.
Physiotherapy in this area includes pelvic floor exercises, postural training, and manual therapy to restore core strength, manage discomfort, and assist in the recovery process. It is used to address women-specific health concerns and assist individuals through different stages of life.
8. Oncology Physiotherapy
Cancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can lead to fatigue, weakness, and mobility issues. Oncology physiotherapy focuses on movement-based strategies to support strength, manage discomfort, and assist with functional mobility during recovery. Techniques such as gentle movement exercises and lymphatic drainage may also be used to enhance comfort, mobility, and independence for cancer survivors.
Seek physiotherapy treatments in Singapore at Calibrate Health
At Calibrate Health, we provide personalised physiotherapy treatments designed to support people of all ages and activity levels. Whether you need help recovering from an injury, improving mobility, or managing chronic pain, our experienced physiotherapists are here to guide you.
