Physiotherapy can be a little mysterious if you haven’t tried it before. If you’re dealing with pain, stiffness, limited mobility or recovering from an injury, physiotherapy can likely help.
That’s why we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions we get to help you take the next step.
1. How much does physiotherapy cost?
Each of our Life Ready Physio + Pilates clinics is a little different, and so are our people. We’re proud to have practitioners with a wide range of experience, special interests and additional training which means pricing may vary slightly between our locations.
To find out current session pricing, your nearest Life Ready Physio + Pilates admin team can help.
2. Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist?
In most cases, you don’t need a referral to see a physiotherapist. You can “self-refer” and book in with our team directly. However, you will require a GP referral if you are claiming with Medicare, DVA, NDIS or have a worker’s compensation or motor vehicle accident claim. If you’re unsure, simply chat with our admin team.
When booking, be sure to let our admin team know which area is bothering you so we can pair you with the physiotherapist best suited to help.
3. How long is a typical session?
We like to set our initial appointments between 40–60 minutes so we have plenty of time to get to know you, your concerns and help treat your pain. Our follow-ups are 20–30 minutes, depending on your needs.
Your physiotherapist will make sure the session is long enough to assess, treat and provide relevant education without feeling rushed.
4. What if I’m nervous about treatment or pain?
Feeling nervous is normal, especially if it’s your first time seeing a physio. You can feel confident that our team will work to make you feel comfortable, explain each step and tailor treatment to your pain tolerance and goals. It is your right to speak up if something feels uncomfortable.
Additionally, we understand that everyone has a unique need for privacy during a consultation depending on personal preference, natural modesty, the type of care being provided and your familiarity with the service being provided.
If you need to disrobe for a particular treatment, our practitioners will provide a clear explanation of ‘adequate undress’ and the reason it is important. Our practitioners will offer a suitable cover (such as a gown, shorts or drape) if it is necessary and can turn their back or choose to leave the room while you disrobe.
5. How many physio sessions will I need to feel better?
This varies depending on your condition, severity and your individual goals. Some people notice improvement after one or two sessions, while others may need several weeks of treatment or ongoing support. During your initial appointment, your physiotherapist will work with you to provide a personalised plan based on your needs and goals and at every appointment, will check in and talk with you about how you’re progressing.
6. Will I have to do any exercises at home?
Yes, you may have to! Take-home exercises are a key part of physiotherapy. They help speed up recovery, improve strength and prevent recurring injuries. Don’t worry, your physiotherapist will tailor them to your fitness levels and current ability and run through them with you carefully so you can perform them correctly to prevent any additional injuries.
7. What should I bring to my first physio session?
Wear comfortable clothing and bring any relevant medical history, scans or test results relating to your pain or injury. To make the most out of your session, we suggest thinking about your symptoms or questions about your pain or reason for visiting a physio.
8. What should I do if I feel better but still have appointments booked?
Even if you feel better, keeping your appointments can be beneficial. Physiotherapy isn’t just about relief, it’s also about prevention and strengthening to avoid future injuries. If you’re unsure, discuss this with your physiotherapist during your appointment, or you can leave a message with our admin team, and your physio can contact you at an appropriate time. Your physio can then tweak your plan which may mean possibly pushing your next session out a few weeks or cancelling it if it’s no longer needed.
9. Can children see a physio?
Physiotherapy is suitable for all ages, from babies to young children, teens and older adults. We see many little (and bigger ones) for development delays, playground or sports injuries, congenital conditions, growing or unexplained pains or support with motor skills.
You can read more about paediatric physiotherapy here: Does my child need physio?
10. What if my pain gets worse after a session?
It’s normal to feel a little sore or achy after treatment especially if your physiotherapist has worked on tight muscles or introduced new exercises your body isn’t used to yet. This usually settles within 24–48 hours. If the pain feels unusual or sharp, please speak to your physiotherapist at your next appointment, or you contact them via the clinic phone number or email prior to your next visit.
11. What’s the difference between a physiotherapist and a remedial massage therapist?
While both help relieve pain and improve movement, their focus is slightly different. Physiotherapists assess, diagnose and help treat injuries or movement challenges using exercise, education and manual therapy techniques. Remedial massage therapists focus more on relieving muscle tension and promoting relaxation. The two often complement each other nicely!
12. What other services are available at Life Ready Physio + Pilates?
We offer more than just general physiotherapy! Our team includes health professionals and physiotherapists with specialised areas of interest, all focused on helping you move towards your best quality of life. At our Life Ready Physio + Pilates clinics, you can access services such as:
- Clinical Pilates
- Remedial massage
- Women’s and men’s health physiotherapy
- Aged care services
- Vestibular physiotherapy
- Paediatric physiotherapy
- Lymphoedema management
- Pre and post natal care
- NDIS physiotherapy ‘
- The GLA:D® Program
- Exercise physiology
