Physiotherapy Glossary

A condition that causes joint pain, stiffness and inflammation. Physiotherapy helps improve movement, reduce pain and support daily function.

Exercises designed to improve stability and reduce the risk of falls, particularly important for older adults.

Pain that lasts longer than 3 months. Physiotherapy focuses on managing symptoms, improving movement and building long-term strength.

A treatment that combines cold therapy and compression to reduce swelling, pain and inflammation after injury or surgery.

A treatment used to release muscle tension and trigger points. Fine needles are inserted into tight muscles to reduce pain and improve movement.

A personalised exercise program designed to restore strength, mobility and function after injury, surgery or illness.

Physiotherapy programs aimed at improving balance, strength and coordination to reduce the risk of falls, especially for seniors.

Movements used in everyday life, such as walking, sitting and lifting. Physiotherapy focuses on improving these movements safely.

Analysis of how you walk to identify issues with movement, balance or posture.

Water-based physiotherapy performed in a heated pool. It reduces stress on joints and is ideal for injury recovery, seniors and people with limited mobility.

The ability of a joint to move freely through its full range. Physiotherapy helps restore and maintain joint movement.

Hands-on treatment used by physiotherapists to reduce pain, improve movement and treat joint and muscle issues.

A referral from a GP that allows eligible patients to access Medicare-subsidised physiotherapy sessions.

Your ability to move freely and easily. Physiotherapy helps improve mobility following injury, illness or surgery.

Treatment of conditions affecting muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons to restore movement and reduce pain.

Physiotherapy services provided under the National Disability Insurance Scheme to support independence, mobility and function.

A condition that weakens bones, making them more likely to break. Physiotherapy helps improve strength, balance and safety.

Strategies used to reduce pain and improve quality of life, including exercise, manual therapy and education.

Structured physiotherapy after surgery to restore strength, movement and function safely.

A physical assessment to determine if a person is fit for the demands of a job, helping reduce workplace injury risk.

The amount a joint can move in different directions. Improving ROM is a key goal of physiotherapy.

The process of recovering strength, movement and function after injury, surgery or illness.

Assessment and treatment of injuries related to sport, including return-to-sport planning and injury prevention.

Exercises designed to improve muscle strength, support joints and enhance overall function.

Physiotherapy services delivered at home for people who cannot attend a clinic, including those with aged care or NDIS funding.

Tight areas within muscles that can cause pain and restrict movement. Often treated with dry needling or manual therapy.