Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can be defined as a discipline whose primary purpose is the promotion of optimal human health and functions through the application of scientific principles to prevent, identify, assess, correct or alleviate acute or prolonged movement dysfunction.

Physiotherapy contributes significantly not only in the achievement of physical independence but indirectly acts as a main augmenting force to improve vocational potentials and psychological status leading to the attainment of social security.

About the Unit

The Physiotherapy Unit at St. John's Medical College and Hospital was started as a part of the Orthopaedic Department. From 1996 the Physiotherapy services were led by a physiatrist. In 1998 the Physiotherapy Unit became a part of the Division of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and in April 1999 when the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation was inaugurated the Physiotherapy Unit formed a very major part.

Currently the Unit has six qualified Physiotherapists and eight interns

Services Provided

The following are some of the therapies given in the Physiotherapy section:-

Appropriate exercise prescription, monitoring the progress and modifying them if required.
Amputee rehabilitation
Balance training
Burn care and rehabilitation
Chest physiotherapy as part of critical care in various ICUs.
Cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation
Detailed physical assessment and treatment planning
Early mobilization of post operative orthopaedic patients
Geriatric care and management.
Management of back problems
Management of obesity and complaints due to overweight
Management of sports related injuries
Observational gait analysis and gait training
Pain management
Pre and post natal care for the mother.
Physical rehabilitation following neurological impairements
Restorative care for the neonates and paediatric patients
Rehabilitation of hand injuries
Rehabilitation of spinal cord injuries

Facilities available

Electrotherapy

Management of neuromusculoskeletal disorders using electrical modalities like:-

Short wave diathermy
Ultrasound therapy
Interferential therapy
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation
Electronic cervical and lumbar traction
Continuous passive motion
Infra red radiation
Wax therapy
Whirlpool bath
Hydrocollator

Exercise therapy

Various strengthening and mobility aids including a multi-gym.