Are you dealing with neck pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, jaw pain or sports injuries? These are all things that a physiotherapist can help with, and when it comes to your health, you’ll probably be looking for Canberra’s best physiotherapists to treat you.
Physiotherapists specialise in pain management using exercise physiology. When you visit a physiotherapy clinic it may be for short term sports rehabilitation or injury managing, or you could be using the services of a chronic pain physiotherapist for long term pain management. No matter what your ailment, Canberra has some top of the range physiotherapy.
Skip to the list of Canberra's best physiotherapists
- Back in Strength
- Hawker Place Physiotherapy and Pilates
- Higher Function
- PhysioSport
- Powerhouse Physiotherapy
- Southside Physio
Does physiotherapy help chronic pain?
Yes! Chronic pain physiotherapy helps people with long term pain such as chronic back pain or arthritis develop a treatment plan that works towards higher mobilisation, increased functionality and decreased day-to-day pain. A physiotherapist can give you exercises to stretch and strengthen areas of your body, and can also guide you to make the best decisions around equipment such as the correct shoes for you.
What’s the difference between a physiotherapist and a chiropractor?
Physiotherapists and chiropractors are both trained in the orthopaedic, neurological and functional assessment of the spine. Both may treat the same conditions, and both focus on managing pain and discomfort using non-invasive and nonsurgical techniques. So what’s the difference?
Physiotherapists focus on pain free movement, and increased mobility and functionality. They can work on any area of the body, and physiotherapists will usually treat you using stretches and exercises that you can then perform on your own, to improve mobility and stretch your joints, easing joint pain or strengthening areas of your body. Physiotherapists usually don’t require specific equipment which is why you can then do the stretches at home, by yourself.
A chiropractor is focused on pain relief and fixing any misalignment in the spine. They focus on the neck and back, with some work in the joints in the arms or legs, and will perform manipulations using their hands to assist your body in healing. A chiropractic centre is usually a specialised office with equipment set up to perform adjustments and manipulations, and all of your chiropractic treatments will be done with your chiropractor in a hands-on manner.
Should you see a physiotherapist or a chiropractor?
If you are having symptoms such as limited movement with pain or feeling pain in relation to specific movements, or if your pain is in other areas of your body aside from your back and neck, then a physiotherapist will likely be able to help you the most. If your pain is in your neck or back, then a chiropractor will likely be the best starting point for you, as that is the area that they are most specialised in.
Can a physio and a chiro work together?
Absolutely! Depending on your particular issue, the best approach may be a joint treatment between a physiotherapist and a chiropractor. For example, if you are dealing with back pain then a chiropractor may be able to perform manipulations to ease pressure on your spine, while a physio may also recommend some stretching and strengthening exercises to improve the muscles supporting your back.
The best physiotherapists in Canberra 2024
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When looking for a physiotherapist in the Canberra region, check out our list of the best local businesses below.
PhysioSport
PhysioSport has a team of expert physiotherapists trained in the prevention and treatment of sports injuries with the aim to return you to your activities, stronger than before.
They offer a broad range of services to treat many issues including back and neck pain, core stability, massage therapy, active pregnancy and more.
Powerhouse Physiotherapy
Powerhouse Physiotherapy’s aim is to get you back feeling better, stronger, faster in an effective and efficient manner.
Their team of qualified practitioners specialise in injury prevention, orthopaedic & exercise rehabilitation, sports & remedial massage and injury management.
Reece Cummings left this five star review on Google; “As a physically active person and a sports coach, I’ve been to Powerhouse Physio at various times over the years. They always listen, understand, and prepare plans and exercises to not only improve you, but to keep you active.”
Higher Function
The team at Higher Function have over 50 years of combined experience musculoskeletal, sports injuries and neurological conditions that they incorporate into their evidence-based treatments and classes.
They are passionate about helping their patients achieve their physical goals and work hard to create a friendly and supportive environment.
Southside Physio
Southside Physiotherapy have clinics in Tuggeranong, Woden, Bungendore and also offer home visits to help treat you in the comfort of your own home.
They have a highly experienced and regarded team with a wide range of skills and treatment options.
They offer many types of physiotherapy including aquatic, post operation rehab, sports physio, arthritis help and plenty more.
Hawker Place Physio and Pilates
Hawker Place Physiotherapy and Pilates have been providing high quality services in Canberra for almost 30 years.
Their team of skilled physiotherapists strive for excellence when it comes to assessment, diagnosis and treatment to help you reach your treatment goals.
They offer a range of treatment techniques, including specialised exercise programs, massage and manual therapy, dry needling and mechanical traction, as well as clinical Pilates.
Back in Strength
Back in Strength have developed a reputation as one of Canberra’s leading physiotherapy and rehabilitation clinics through exceptional treatment methods.
Their highly-skilled and qualified staff believe in treating the whole person and not just the symptoms, ensuring your body is in the best condition possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I feel pain getting assessed?
Depending on how serious your in injury, there may be a small level of pain or discomfort involved in getting assessed by a physiotherapist. It is important to let the physio know when the treatment is giving you discomfort to help them further diagnose and treat the injury.
Why should I go to a physiotherapist?
It is always a good idea to see a physio when you have first sustained an injury otherwise it may lead to more severe injury and possible long-term damage. Being treated by a physio will not only address the immediate pain, but it can also help you further understand what caused the injury and allow you to implement some prevention strategies.
Will I have to do any exercises between sessions?
Yes, most treatment plans from quality physiotherapists will include a number of exercises for you to do at home on your own time. They may not be as strenuous as a session with the physio, but the exercises play an important part in your recovery process.
What is the main role of a physiotherapist?
A physiotherapist’s job is to help people affected by injury or experiencing soreness through movement and exercise, manual therapy and advice. They can also offer education to help clients prevent injury and maintain a physical, healthy and active body.
What qualifications does a physiotherapist need?
In Australia, a physiotherapist must complete an accredited university degree and register with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia before they are able to practice. To then continue practicing as a physio, you must complete a minimum of 20 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities each year.
