Physiotherapy helps more than just injury recovery, it’s also effective for treating migraines, vertigo, TMJ disorders, pelvic floor dysfunction and chronic fatigue syndrome. From vestibular rehab and manual therapy to graded exercise and pelvic floor retraining, physiotherapists use evidence based techniques to improve symptoms and restore daily function. These lesser known uses of physio demonstrate its versatility as a holistic healthcare solution.
When most people think of physiotherapy, they usually picture someone recovering from a sports injury or surgery. While it’s true that physiotherapy plays a big role in those areas, it can also help with many other, less obvious health conditions. In fact, some of the conditions that respond well to physiotherapy may surprise you.
In this blog, we’ll look at five unexpected health issues that can benefit from physiotherapy and how this form of treatment can improve daily life in ways you might not have considered.
1. Chronic Headaches and Migraines:
Headaches and migraines are often linked to tension in the neck, jaw, or upper back. Poor posture, muscle tightness, or joint stiffness in these areas can trigger or worsen head pain. Physiotherapists can assess these issues and use manual therapy, exercises, and posture correction to reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
In one study, patients who received physiotherapy showed significant improvements in headache symptoms compared to those who didn’t [1]. Over time, these treatments can also reduce the need for medication and improve overall quality of life.
2. Vertigo and Dizziness:
Another condition you might not expect physiotherapy to help with is vertigo. This spinning sensation, often caused by problems in the inner ear, can make daily tasks difficult and even dangerous. Fortunately, a type of physiotherapy called vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is specifically designed to address balance issues and dizziness.
With the help of guided exercises, patients can train their brain and body to better manage symptoms and regain stability [2]. Many people who go through VRT report noticeable relief within just a few sessions.
3. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction:
Pelvic floor issues are more common than people think, and they can affect both men and women. These problems may include urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, or even constipation. While they can be embarrassing to talk about, they’re also highly treatable.
Pelvic floor physiotherapists use targeted exercises to strengthen or relax the pelvic muscles, depending on the issue. This not only helps with symptom control but can also prevent long-term complications [3]. With the right guidance, many people experience major improvements without the need for surgery or medication.
4. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS):
Living with chronic fatigue syndrome can be incredibly challenging. People with CFS often feel tired even after rest and may struggle with concentration, sleep problems, and muscle pain. Although exercise might seem like the last thing someone with CFS wants to do, gentle and guided activity through physiotherapy can actually help manage symptoms.
Physiotherapists use a method called graded exercise therapy (GET), which involves slowly increasing activity levels at a pace the patient can handle. According to research, this type of structured approach may help some people with CFS regain a sense of control over their energy levels [4].
5. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders:
TMJ disorders affect the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. This condition can cause jaw pain, clicking sounds, headaches, and difficulty chewing. While it’s often treated by dentists, physiotherapy can also play a key role in relieving symptoms.
Through manual techniques, relaxation exercises, and postural training, physiotherapists can ease the muscle tension and joint dysfunction that contribute to TMJ pain. A study published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation showed that physiotherapy significantly improved jaw function and reduced pain in people with TMJ disorders [5].
Final Thoughts:
As we’ve seen, physiotherapy isn’t just for athletes or those recovering from surgery. It can be a powerful, non-invasive way to manage a wide range of health issues from dizziness to jaw pain. If you or someone you know is dealing with one of these conditions, consider talking to a physiotherapist. You might be surprised by how much of a difference it can make.
George Block
BSc Sports Rehabilitation
References
- Castien RF, van der Windt DA, Dekker J, et al. Effectiveness of manual therapy for chronic tension-type headache: a pragmatic, randomized, clinical trial. Cephalalgia. 2011;31(2):133–143.
- Hall CD, Herdman SJ, Whitney SL, et al. Vestibular rehabilitation for peripheral vestibular hypofunction: an evidence-based clinical practice guideline. J Neurol Phys Ther. 2016;40(2):124–155.
- Dumoulin C, Adewuyi T, Booth J, et al. Adult conservative management of incontinence. Neurourol Urodyn. 2018;37(1):S1–S85.
- White PD, Goldsmith KA, Johnson AL, et al. Comparison of adaptive pacing therapy, cognitive behaviour therapy, graded exercise therapy, and specialist medical care for chronic fatigue syndrome (PACE): a randomised trial. Lancet. 2011;377(9768):823–836.
- Craane B, Dijkstra PU, Stappaerts K, et al. Physical therapy for temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review. J Oral Rehabil. 2012;39(5):327–341.