Physiotherapy Equipment

Physiotherapists use a wide variety of equipment in their work treating and rehabilitating patients. There are many reasons for using equipment, varying from treatment of injuries and promoting healing, to facilitating muscle strengthening, stretching or postural correction.

Treatment of injuries can involve equipment designed to promote healing, reduce swelling and minimise pain. Electrotherapy devices such as ultrasound, laser, TENS and interferential are commonly used by physiotherapists.

Rehabilitation equipment can be used for strengthening post injury. Products such as ‘Theraband’ are used for resistance training.

Wobbleboards can be found in physiotherapy clinics and gyms, and are used for balance training. Rehabilitation following lower limb injuries may involve exercises on a wobbleboard, they are also good for core stability exercises and can even be used for upper limb proprioception exercises.

Swiss Balls, also known as fit balls, physio balls or gym balls are a great piece of equipment with many functions. They can be used for core stability exercises, stretching and strength training. They are often used in pilates exercises.

Physiotherapists will also use bracing and support equipment to manage injuries. This may involve the use of braces such as for the ankle or knee post injury, to immobilise or support through the recovery period. Supports may be used for any joint in the body, and products such as back corsets and neck collars are occasionally used as well. Products such as tennis elbow straps can be used to assist with recovery of these complaints, off-loading the injured structures and assisting continuation of normal function.

Tape is a product commonly used by physiotherapists, particularly in sports injuries. It can be used to support an injured area, off-load painful muscles, ligaments or tendons, or stabilize a weak joint. Tape can also be used to correct posture or joint position and assist postural muscle re-training.

Physiotherapists involved in ergonomic assessments in the work place may use products such as lumbar rolls or seat wedges, to improve sitting posture. They may also recommend products such as ergonomic mouse options , keyboards or chairs.