Musculoskeletal disorders such as back and neck pain are major problems globally and in Australia with huge effects on the individual suffer, family and work-related productivity.
In 40-70% of people, back and neck pain recovers fully with little or no treatment required. The remaining 30-60% of people however, continue to suffer from back or neck pain for some time after and contribute to much of the costs associated with spinal pain.
Physiotherapists are experts in the management of musculoskeletal problems and spinal pain. However as patients, doctors, health professionals, insurers, and legal practitioners looking for specific expertise for musculoskeletal problems, it is important to be aware that there are differing levels of expertise within physiotherapy.
There are currently three levels of clinical expertise within musculoskeletal physiotherapy; generalist physiotherapists, musculoskeletal physiotherapists, and Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists.
Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists have undertaken advanced specialty training and undergone rigorous oral and clinical examinations to be awarded fellowship in the Australian College of Physiotherapists. Accordingly, Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists are recognised by their fellowship status indicated by the lettering F.A.C.P.
Currently, there are approximately 100 Specialist Physiotherapists in Australia, and approximately 8 practicing Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists in Melbourne. David Francis FACP the Director of Physioworks Cranbourne, Physioworks Pakenham and Co-Director of Physioworks Camberwell heads up the team here at our practice.
If you are a sufferer of a musculoskeletal disorder seeking expert opinion for the management of a musculoskeletal complaint for which you want the best possible physiotherapeutic outcome, then consider a consultation at your nearest Specialist Physiotherapy Centre.
Physioworks Health Group Locations: Cranbourne ~ Pakenham ~ Camberwell ~ Mulgrave