The internet knows everything. Among the vast amount of information available, there is an answer to every single question. It is important, however, that you ask the right question and are able to assess the (often conflicting) answers, so that you do not draw the wrong conclusions about your symptoms or even act on incorrect advice. Now that more and more people are consulting ‘Doctor Google’ when they have physical symptoms and are trying to diagnose and treat these problems themselves, it is time to take a closer look at this phenomenon. When you have physical symptoms, do you go to a physiotherapist or do you consult ‘Doctor Google’? And is that really the wisest course of action?
The physiotherapist is the specialist
If you experience pain or other symptoms whilst moving, you may be tempted to look online for advice. What could be the problem, and how can I improve the situation or find relief myself? The information on the internet is plentiful and comprehensive, but sometimes the advice given is contradictory or doesn’t quite fit your personal situation. So which advice should you believe? And how can you be sure that the recommended exercises are precisely suited to your specific situation and won’t actually make things worse? Correctly interpreting all that information requires knowledge of the human body combined with an understanding of your specific symptoms. And that’s something Google can’t help you with. As physiotherapists, we do have that specialist knowledge.
Physiotherapy doesn't just help with movement problems
Another point to bear in mind when searching for solutions on Google is that you’re quickly inclined to look in the direction you’re already familiar with. If you have mobility issues, it makes sense to look into physiotherapy. But physiotherapy can also be beneficial for conditions where you might not immediately think of it, such as Parkinson’s and COPD. If you see your GP with such symptoms, they can make the correct assessment and, if necessary, refer you to a physiotherapist.
Doctor Google as a resource
So do take care when using the internet to look for a solution to your symptoms, as different causes can lead to the same symptoms, and certain symptoms can be relieved in ways you might not immediately think of as a layperson. Furthermore, there may be other factors at play that influence your symptoms, which you might not immediately think of yourself. The information you find online about your symptoms can, however, give you an insight that helps you describe them more accurately. This can be helpful during a visit to our physiotherapy practice. Based on a physical examination combined with your description of your symptoms, we can make a diagnosis and draw up a treatment plan.
It is precisely this specialist knowledge that we, as physiotherapists, possess that is essential to ensure that the treatment and exercises are properly tailored to your situation.
Use the right sources
If you do wish to take an active approach to your health and find out more about your symptoms, be sure to use sources that you know to be reliable. For example, please visit our website, where you can find a wealth of information on all sorts of physical symptoms and the treatments we offer for them. We cannot emphasise this enough: here too, the correct interpretation of your symptoms by a specialist is essential.
Are you experiencing any physical symptoms? If so, please get in touch with a physiotherapist at FRISKFYSIO
Do you experience pain or other symptoms when moving? Please do not try to treat yourself; instead, please contact us. We’d be happy to help you get active and stay active in a safe and responsible way. Call 085-5000333 For an appointment, send an e-mail to info@friskfysio.nl or fill in the contact form on our website. We will contact you as soon as possible.
