Dorothy Westerman
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Apr 30/04) - Preventing injury is much easier than trying to recover from it, says a physiotherapist at Stanton Territorial Hospital.

"Many people don't know we are also here to help prevent injuries before they happen," Gail Leclerc said.

The physiotherapy department wants to raise awareness about the role they play in reducing and repairing injury.

Physical therapy month is April 24 until May 24 with Spring into Action as the theme.

"We want to use education as our treatment," Leclerc said.

Injuries requiring treatment include anything from the golfer's elbow to strengthening the body after a stroke, she said.

Machines such as the TENS machine or ultrasound provide a relief from the pain and swelling and promote healing.

Stretching and range of motion exercises for patients are also part of the healing process.

Leclerc said another device, the IFC machine, reduces pain and swelling in patients who have undergone total knee replacements.

Newer devices such as the laser, which is similar to the ultrasound, promote healing and decrease pain.

"We take care of any injury, from sports-related injuries to complaints of frail geriatric patients," she said.

Currently, the department has four physiotherapists, with two more expected in June.