What is a Physiotherapist?

Physiotherapists are specialists in the management of neuromuscular, cardiothoracic, and musculoskeletal conditions that impact on an individual’s function and ability to participate in their daily lives.

Physiotherapists are registered health professionals with a minimum four year bachelors degree. They must be registered with the New Zealand Physiotherapy Board and must demonstrate participation in regular professional development in order to maintain this registration.

Physiotherapists work in a multitude of settings (including private clinics, public hospitals, schools, gyms and communities), and with people right throughout the lifespan (from neonates to the elderly). They have extensive knowledge of body anatomy, function, and movement, and as such are key to facilitating recovery.

Physiotherapists are involved in the treatment and management of:

• Neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinsons disease, and cerebral palsy, head injury.
• Cardiovascular conditions such as heart disease, COPD, and asthma.
• Musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis, injury, major trauma.
• People recovering from surgical procedures such as hip and knee replacements, cardiac surgery and neurosurgery.
• Other specialty areas such as womens health and continence, lymphodema, pain management, and burns.

Please note – if you are having difficulty getting in touch with your delegate, email physio@apex.org.nz and we will assist you.

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