Physiotherapy uses a variety of techniques to help your muscles and joints work to their full potential. It can help repair damage by speeding up the healing process and reducing pain and stiffness. Physiotherapists also have an important role in rehabilitation, for example, helping people return to work after an injury or illness. However, physiotherapists do not just offer treatment, their advice can help you prevent problems returning or even happening in the first place. Virtually any condition that affects your muscles, joins or nerves. Common problems that can be helped by physiotherapy include: Painful conditions such as arthritis Back and neck pain including whiplash Upper limb work related disorders, also known as repetitive strain injury (RSI) Sports injuries Asthma and other breathing difficulties Before any action is taken, the physiotherapist will assess your condition, diagnose the problem and help you to understand what is wrong. They will work with you to develop an effective treatment plan that takes into account your lifestyle, leisure activities and general health. This will include advice on how you can help yourself, for example, you may be shown exercises that you can do between treatment sessions. Where appropriate, physiotherapists also advise carers how they can help.