Arthritis is one of the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy in mid-life and later. We work primarily with osteoarthritis (the wear-related arthritis of knees, hips, hands and spine), tendon-related conditions that overlap with arthritis presentations, and some inflammatory arthritis presentations in coordination with rheumatology. To book, call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
For general public information, see healthdirect Australia's arthritis information.
Common arthritis presentations
- Knee osteoarthritis — including pre-surgical preparation if knee replacement is being considered
- Hip osteoarthritis
- Hand and thumb osteoarthritis
- Cervical and lumbar spine osteoarthritis
- Tendinopathies often associated with arthritis (e.g. gluteal tendinopathy alongside hip OA)
- Post-replacement rehabilitation
- Symptom-flare management
What physio can offer
- Exercise — progressive strengthening, mobility and conditioning have the strongest evidence for OA pain and function
- Education — about what arthritis is, what's likely to help, and what's not
- Manual therapy where appropriate
- Hydrotherapy for selected patients where land-based loading triggers flares
- Pre- and post-surgical rehab for joint replacements
- Coordination with GPs, rheumatologists and orthopaedic surgeons
We don't promise specific outcomes — arthritis varies considerably between people. Most patients benefit from a structured exercise program done over time.
Locations
- Melton — 7/211–223 Barries Road, Melton West.
- Hoppers Crossing — 369 Morris Road, Hoppers Crossing.
- Sunbury — 16-18 O'Shanassy Street, Sunbury (by appointment).
Funding and payment options
- Private health insurance — HICAPS on-site for on-the-spot claiming.
- Medicare EPC / Chronic Disease Management — eligible patients with a GP plan.
- WorkCover — for accepted claims related to a workplace injury.
- TAC — for accepted claims related to a motor vehicle accident.
- NDIS — for participants whose plan includes physiotherapy.
- DVA — Gold and White cardholders may be eligible.
- Private payment — accepted. Contact reception for the current fee schedule.
Funding eligibility depends on your circumstances, referral, claim approval and appointment type. Please contact reception if unsure.
Frequently asked questions
Can physio actually help arthritis?
For most osteoarthritis, structured exercise has consistent evidence of helping pain and function. Manual therapy can add benefit for some. We don't claim to reverse arthritis — we work on what physio can help.
I'm waiting for knee replacement — should I do physio first?
Often yes — pre-surgical strengthening (sometimes called prehab) tends to improve post-surgical recovery.
Should I try hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is useful when land-based loading triggers flares. We assess whether it's likely to help in your situation.
Ready to book?
Call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
Related: physiotherapy · hydrotherapy · post-surgical care · all services
Reviewed by Joseph Louka, AHPRA-registered Physiotherapist (Principal Physiotherapist) · Last reviewed 2026-05-29.
