Difference between Physiotherapy and Massage

Physiotherapy or Physical therapy is a therapeutic health care profession primarily concerned with the treatment of impairments, pain such as back pain, knee pain, neck pain etc. and disabilities which helps in the promotion of mobility, functional ability, quality of life and movement potential. The therapy is done after thorough physical examination, evaluation, diagnosis and physical intervention.

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Physical therapy (PT) specialties include sports, neurology, cardiopulmonary, geriatrics, orthopedics, hand rehabilitation and pediatrics.  PTs practice in many settings such as outpatient clinics or offices, private home care visit, health and wellness clinics, rehabilitation hospital facilities, skilled nursing facilities, education and research centers, schools, hospices, industrial and this workplaces or other occupational environments, fitness centers and sports training facilities.

Physical Therapists use an individual’s history and Physical examination to arrive at a diagnosis and establish a management plan and, when necessary, incorporate the results of laboratory and imaging studies. Physiotherapists are qualified and trained to use electro-therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound, TENS, Traction, Mobilization and Manipulation of vertebral and peripheral joints are also utilized.

PT management commonly includes ailment specific exercises, manipulation and other interventions. In addition, PTs work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility restoring maximum movement and functional ability.

A physical therapist has also the knowledge to refer a client to appropriate health care practitioners (Orthopedic surgeon, Gynecologist, Oncologist, etc.) if the PT has reasonable cause to believe symptoms or conditions present require services beyond the scope of practice and if PT is contraindicated.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is a generic, hands on technique commonly employed for fatigue, work life balance, Relaxation, Stress management and for a “feel good” factor.  It is occasionally used for soft tissue restoring function, relieving pain, decreasing muscle tension and/or spasm to improve physical or athletic performance and promote healing. Remedial massage therapy stimulates circulation and local blood flow. It is non-specific and the masseur is usually not a medically qualified person, typically someone who has had experience doing it by observation and innovation.

Massage therapy is a touch therapy involving techniques for palpating soft tissues of the body. The massage system may include such techniques as stroking, kneading, gliding, percussion, friction, vibration, compression and passive or active stretching within the normal anatomical range of movement.

Almost all people who prefer massage therapy are usually people who do not have serious medical ailments and want to undergo the same as a stress buster or for feeling good.

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