Physiotherapy Frequently Asked Questions
Is physiotherapy suitable after surgery?
Yes. Physiotherapy is an important part of recovery after surgery to restore movement, strength and function safely.
Do you offer workplace or pre-employment assessments?
Yes. We provide workplace health assessments and pre-employment physical checks to assess strength, movement and injury risk.
How long are physiotherapy appointments?
Appointment times vary depending on the service, but your initial consultation is typically longer to allow for a full assessment and treatment plan.
What should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows movement and access to the area being treated, such as shorts or a loose top.
Do you work with NDIS and aged care clients?
Yes. We provide physiotherapy services for NDIS, My Aged Care and Support at Home clients, including home visits where needed.
Can I attend physiotherapy if I have limited mobility?
Yes. We provide both in-clinic treatment and home visits for patients who are unable to travel.
Do you run group exercise classes?
Yes. We offer chair Pilates and group circuit classes focused on improving strength, balance and flexibility in a supportive environment.
What is musculoskeletal physiotherapy?
Musculoskeletal physiotherapy focuses on treating injuries and conditions affecting muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons to restore movement and function.
Do you offer physiotherapy for arthritis?
Yes. Physiotherapy can help manage arthritis by improving joint mobility, reducing pain and building strength to support daily activities.
What is dry needling and is it safe?
Dry needling is a technique used to target muscle knots and tension. It is safe, evidence-based and performed by trained physiotherapists as part of your treatment plan.
Do you use exercise as part of treatment?
Yes. Exercise-based rehabilitation is a key part of physiotherapy and is tailored to improve strength, mobility and long-term outcomes.
How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?
This depends on your condition, goals and response to treatment. Your physiotherapist will discuss a clear plan and expected timeframe after your initial assessment.
What conditions can physiotherapy help with?
Physiotherapy can help with back pain, joint pain, sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, arthritis, mobility issues and chronic pain conditions.
Do you provide physiotherapy services to Garden Village residents?
Yes. Thurgood Physiotherapy is conveniently located within Garden Village in Port Macquarie and provides services to residents as well as the wider community.
Do you offer Medicare bulk billing?
We offer Medicare bulk billing for eligible patients with a valid GP Management Plan (EPC/CDM referral). Please contact our team to confirm your eligibility.
Do you provide home visits?
Yes. We provide home visit physiotherapy for patients who are unable to attend the clinic. This includes services for Support at Home, NDIS and post-operative rehabilitation patients.
Is your clinic wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Ramp access is available at our clinic and there is convenient on-site parking. If you are unable to travel, we also offer home visits.
Do you offer physiotherapy for seniors?
Yes. We provide seniors physiotherapy in Port Macquarie, including support for:
- Arthritis and osteoporosis.
- Stroke recovery.
- Falls prevention.
- Post-hospital rehabilitation.
- General mobility and strength.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Your first session includes;
- A detailed discussion about your symptoms and medical history.
- A physical assessment of movement, strength and function.
- A clear explanation of your diagnosis.
- A personalised treatment plan.
Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist?
No. You can book directly with Thurgood Physiotherapy without a GP referral. However, if you are claiming through Medicare (EPC/CDM plan), DVA, WorkCover or some insurance providers, a referral may be required.
Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist?
No. You can book directly with Thurgood Physiotherapy without a GP referral. However, if you are claiming through Medicare (EPC/CDM plan), DVA, WorkCover or some insurance providers, a referral may be required.
What is hydrotherapy and who is it for?
Hydrotherapy is physiotherapy in a heated pool that reduces joint stress. It is ideal for seniors, injury recovery and people with limited mobility. You can learn more about hydrotherapy physiotherapy on our Hydrotherapy page.
Do you provide physiotherapy for older adults?
Yes. We support older adults with mobility, balance, strength and rehabilitation following illness, injury or surgery. You can read more about seniors physiotherapy on our service page.
Do you offer post-operative rehabilitation?
Yes. We provide structured rehabilitation programs after surgery to help restore strength, mobility and confidence in movement. You can read more about post-operative rehabilitation on our dedicated service page.
Can physiotherapy help with chronic pain?
Yes. We provide tailored pain management strategies to help reduce symptoms, improve movement and support long-term function. You can read more about chronic pain treatment on our Chronic Pain Management page.
Do you treat sports injuries?
Yes. We assess, treat and support recovery from sports injuries, including return-to-sport planning and injury prevention strategies. You can learn more about sports injury physiotherapy on our service page.