What is Physio?
A Chartered Physiotherapist's main focus is reduction of pain and correction of dysfunction and injury. Unlike some other treatment professions available in Ireland, Chartered Physiotherapists are allied health professionals and Physiotherapy is considered within the realm of conventional medicine.
Physiotherapy is certainly far more than fixing musculoskeletal and sports injuries although that is perhaps the most common perception of the profession. Physiotherapy is a science-based health care profession which involves evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a range of diseases, disorders and disabilities using physical means.
To become a Physiotherapist in Ireland, an individual must first obtain a graduate degree from an accredited Physiotherapy program. In Ireland, the Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy (BSc Physio) is conferred by Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, the Royal College of Surgeons and University of Limerick. During this time they all complete over 1,000 hours of clinical practice in a number of different specialities. On leaving they are awarded a degree (not a diploma or Mickey Mouse award like some professions). Upon completing the degree the Physiotherapist must acquire their license and insurance from the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP) and thereafter are referred to as Chartered Physiotherapists.
Many Physiotherapists go on to obtain a Master's degree in Sports Medicine, Manipulative Therapy, or other specialty areas. These qualifications are denoted by the letter MSc and follow the BSc title. In addition, Chartered Physiotherapists are compelled to fulfill their CPD (Continuous Professional Development) on an annual basis. This is closely monitored by our professional body, the ISCP. This ensures that Chartered Physiotherapists are up to date with new findings and techniques and keep their "finger on the pulse" so to speak.
It is worth making the distinction that Physiotherapy is also referred to as physical therapy in the United States. Whereas in Ireland, Physical Therapists have just done weekend courses, not full time degrees. If you are confused as to who you should see, just ask your GP.
Even, if you are not going to come to one of our clinics, we still strongly advise that you make sure you see a Chartered Physiotherapist. This guarantees that:
- their qualification is properly recognized
- they are governed by a professional code of conduct & ethics
- they are covered by professional liability insurance
Remember your body is extremely important, so always ensure that you look for Chartered or MISCP (Member of the Irish Chartered Society of Physiotherapy) before you let someone treat you. Just ask your GP, they will tell you.
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