Physiotherapy in Melbourne — what's available
Physiotherapy services across Melbourne range from sole practitioner clinics focusing on a specific area, to large multidisciplinary practices offering a wide spread of allied health under one roof. Each model has its place. This page walks through the range — and how to think about what fits your situation.
The main types of physiotherapy services
General musculoskeletal physiotherapy
The most common form. Assessment and treatment of back pain, neck pain, joint problems, post-injury rehab, post-surgery recovery. Available at most physiotherapy clinics.
Sports physiotherapy
Focused on sport-related injuries and performance. Common in clinics affiliated with local sports clubs or specialising in athletic populations.
Women's and pelvic health physiotherapy
Pre- and post-natal care, pelvic floor function, return to activity after childbirth, prolapse management, and related areas. A specialist subset of physiotherapy.
Paediatric physiotherapy
Children's developmental concerns, gait issues, sports injuries in younger athletes, and management of conditions affecting movement in children.
Neurological physiotherapy
For people recovering from stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, or living with conditions like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's. Usually based at specialised clinics or hospitals.
Respiratory and cardiothoracic physiotherapy
Management of chronic lung conditions, post-operative breathing support. More common in hospital settings.
Hydrotherapy
Pool-based exercise for arthritis, post-surgical rehabilitation, chronic pain. Available at clinics with pool access.
Hand therapy
Specialised physiotherapy or occupational therapy focusing on the hand and upper limb. Usually offered by specialist hand therapy clinics.
Multidisciplinary clinics
Some practices offer physiotherapy alongside podiatry, psychology, occupational therapy, exercise physiology and other services. For patients whose situations span multiple disciplines, having services under one roof can simplify coordination — particularly relevant for chronic pain, NDIS, post-injury rehabilitation and complex cases.
How to match services to your needs
- Routine musculoskeletal issue — most general physiotherapy clinics
- Sport-specific concern — sports physiotherapy or general physio with sports interest
- Children's concern — paediatric physiotherapy
- Pelvic floor / pregnancy / post-natal — women's and pelvic health physiotherapy
- Stroke / spinal / neurological recovery — neurological physiotherapy
- Complex case spanning multiple disciplines — multidisciplinary clinic
Funding pathways
- Private health insurance extras
- Medicare Chronic Disease Management (with GP referral)
- WorkCover for accepted workplace injury claims
- TAC for transport accident-related injury
- NDIS for participants with relevant plan funding
- DVA for eligible veterans
- Self-funded
What to expect from a first visit
Initial appointments are typically 30–45 minutes. History-taking, physical assessment, discussion of findings, and a plan that you understand and agree with. Many first sessions include some treatment on the day. You should leave with a clear sense of next steps.
Practical notes
Our clinics in Melton, Hoppers Crossing and Sunbury offer a range of physiotherapy services alongside podiatry and psychology. Suitability of any service depends on your individual situation. The starting point is usually a phone call so we can match you with the right service and practitioner.
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