Physiotheraphy is not new to science - it has been around in one form or another for thousands of years. Hippocrates described the practice of massage and hydrotherapy in as far back as 460 BC. In Britain, the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy was founded in the late nineteenth century. Physiotherapy is practiced to restore and maintain maximum movement and health of the body. People visit physiotherapists when they need help. Old age, medical conditions, the environment, surgery and accidents can take a toll on the body and a physiotherapist will try to improve the quality of life for the patient. The therapist will try to reduce pain, restore movement, reduce tension and strengthen weakened muscles. The areas that the therapists can treat are musculoskeletal and cardiothorasic. Musculoskeletal conditions that a patient may present with are back pain, sprains, athritis and sports injuries. Cardiothoracic conditions include asthma. Physiotherapists use massage and manipulation to improve the body of the patient. They will find out the medical history of the patient, physically examine them to make a diagnosis and then decide on a course of action. The therapist will treat the patient with physical contact and may also suggest exercises for the patient to do at home. They will also be able to assist by offering advice on prevent and managing conditions. Therapists can be specialists in certain areas such as paediatrics, geriatrics or sports injuries. They may also be specialists in certain treatment techniques such as connective tissue manipulation, craniosacral therapy or Mackenzie Exercise Regime.