physical therapyVerified Medical Guide

Who is a Physiotherapist?

A physiotherapist helps people recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve how their body moves. They work with patients of all ages — from children with developmental challenges to older adults recovering from surgery or stroke. If you have pain, stiffness, weakness, or difficulty moving, a physiotherapist can help you get back to your daily life.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Physiotherapist

Assesses and diagnoses movement problems and physical injuries
Creates personalised exercise programmes to build strength and flexibility
Uses hands-on techniques such as massage and joint mobilisation to reduce pain
Helps patients recover after surgery, stroke, or serious illness
Teaches patients how to move safely and avoid future injuries
Manages long-term conditions such as arthritis, back pain, and cerebral palsy
Uses equipment such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation to support healing
Advises on posture, workplace ergonomics, and lifestyle changes

When to See a Physiotherapist

You should consider booking an consultation if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms or conditions:

  • Back or neck pain that does not go away after a few days
  • Pain, swelling, or stiffness in a joint after an injury
  • Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or moving around
  • Recovering from a bone fracture or orthopaedic surgery
  • Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
  • Recovering from a stroke or neurological condition
  • Frequent headaches linked to neck tension or posture
  • Sports injury such as a sprain, strain, or torn muscle
  • Breathing difficulties or chest problems after illness
  • A child with delayed movement development or coordination problems

Conditions & Visit Reasons

Select a specific condition to learn more or search for specialists offering directed therapy plans:

Types of Physiotherapist Specialists

Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy

Helps people recover from bone, joint, and muscle problems such as back pain, sprains, and fractures.

Neurological Physiotherapy

Supports people who have had a stroke, head injury, or conditions like cerebral palsy to regain movement and balance.

Paediatric Physiotherapy

Works with babies, children, and teenagers who have movement difficulties, developmental delays, or physical disabilities.

Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy

Helps people with heart and lung conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, or heart failure to breathe better and stay active.

Sports Physiotherapy

Treats and prevents injuries that happen during sports or exercise, helping athletes get back to full fitness safely.

Women's Health Physiotherapy

Focuses on issues related to pregnancy, childbirth, and women's pelvic health, including bladder problems and postnatal recovery.

Geriatric Physiotherapy

Helps older adults stay mobile, reduce falls, and manage age-related conditions such as arthritis and weak muscles.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

At your first appointment, the physiotherapist will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had them, and how they affect your daily life. They will then carry out a physical examination — checking your posture, range of movement, strength, and any areas of pain. By the end of the visit, they will explain what they found and agree a treatment plan with you, so you always know what to expect next.

Training & Education Credentials

Physiotherapists in Ghana complete a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Physiotherapy from an accredited university, followed by registration with the Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC). Many go on to gain additional postgraduate training in specialist areas such as sports physiotherapy, neurology, or paediatrics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does physiotherapy cost in Ghana?

The cost of physiotherapy varies depending on the clinic and the type of treatment you need. At public hospitals, fees are generally lower and may be partly covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Private clinics may charge more per session. It is always a good idea to call ahead and ask about fees before your first visit.

What should I bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

Bring your NHIS card or any health insurance documents, a referral letter from your doctor if you have one, and any X-rays or scan results related to your condition. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing so the physiotherapist can easily examine the affected area. If you are taking any medications, bring a list of them or the medication packets.

How do I prepare for a physiotherapy session?

Before your session, eat a light meal and drink enough water so you are not dehydrated. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that allow easy movement. Try to arrive a few minutes early so you can fill in any forms and explain your problem clearly to the physiotherapist. Write down your symptoms and when they started so you do not forget anything important.

How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on your condition and how your body responds to treatment. Some people feel better after just a few sessions, while others with more serious injuries may need several weeks of regular visits. Your physiotherapist will assess you and give you an estimate after the first appointment. Following the home exercises they recommend can help you recover faster and reduce the total number of sessions needed.

When should I go to the hospital instead of seeing a physiotherapist?

You should go to the hospital emergency unit right away if you have sudden severe pain after an accident, you cannot move a limb at all, you have numbness or weakness spreading quickly through your body, or you lose control of your bladder or bowels. These signs may point to a serious injury or nerve problem that needs urgent medical attention. A physiotherapist can help you recover after the emergency has been treated, but they are not the right first stop in a crisis.

Book a Physiotherapist

Find verified board-certified Physiotherapists on DrDoGood. Compare reviews, check real-time availability, and schedule your appointment online.

5 Doctors Available
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Verified Board Certified

All practitioners on DrDoGood are thoroughly vetted for credentials, licensing, and patient satisfaction histories.

PY
Accepting Patients

Dr. Phebe Yaribil

Physiotherapist

A Pharm Dr. in practice for the past 9yrs

Edem
Accepting Patients

Dr. Edem Titiati

Physiotherapist

Edem is a highly skilled and trained Physiotherapist with years of clinical practice in multiple settings and situations.His Treatment style is patient cantered ensuring that patient's well being is holistic and total.

Elikem
Accepting Patients

Dr. Elikem Debrah

Physiotherapist

A physiotherapist who believes Motion is Life

JN
Accepting Patients

Dr. Joseph Ntiamoah

Physiotherapist

Dedicated practitioner offering comprehensive medical consultations and personalized care plans.

Robert
Accepting Patients

Dr. Robert Addo

Physiotherapist

I‘m a Young and enthusiastic physiotherapist with a keen interest in Pain, musculoskeletal disorders, Stroke and Autism spectrum Disorders

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