Physiotherapists in Cardiff treat many different conditions including the issues profiled below.

Communication and Assertiveness

Communication is of vital importance to humans getting on with their lives, as it is the only way we can let other people know how we feel or what we want or ask them the same. We often communicate in less than optimal ways which can lead to misunderstandings, irritation, aggression or just not getting what we want. We can communication in broadly three major approaches, assertively, aggressively or passively (sometimes called non-assertively) and aspects of these are commonly confused. Assertive communication is characterised by respect for the other, is clear and open and the person is also listening to the other.s point of view.

Aggressive communication can take many forms but is characterised by being disrespectful, not listening, taking a one-up position, being dominant and unequal. Such a posture invites aggression back or people may avoid such a person. Passive communicators do not get across what it is they want and are often frustrated and angry inside as they feel like a doormat, always walked over by everyone. When pushed too far they may suddenly flip into aggressive mode and explode in a tantrum, causing widespread surprise and concern as it seems so out of character.

Physiotherapy for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is an increasingly common condition, mostly but not exclusively occurring in women after the menopause when hormonal changes mean the bone density drops steadily with time. Those women who have good bone density to start with and whose density does not drop at a high rate may never reach the risky category. If osteoporosis is present then the incidence of fractures is higher, with vertebral body fractures and fractured neck of femur being the most common, both requiring intervention and causing distress and expense. Physiotherapists are involved in the assessment and management of people with low bone density.

Physios assess patients for their lifestyle, refer them for dietary advice if appropriate, generally advise on management, warn against inappropriate functional activities and prescribe exercise routines to maintain independence and maximise bone health. Physios may advise that lumbar flexion to pick up weights is inappropriate as the front aspects of the vertebral bodies are vulnerable in this activity to crush fractures. General and weight bearing exercises are taught as weight bearing stimulates bone maintenance and growth due to the jarring involved. Swimming and cycling are good aerobic exercise methods but do not have the bone stimulating effect of walking or doing exercises in a gym.