Exercise Physiologist vs Physio

In Australia, whether it's more beneficial to see an Exercise Physiologist (EP) or a Physiotherapist (Physio) depends on your condition and goals.

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✅ See an Exercise Physiologist (EP):

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1. Chronic Disease Management:
    

   • You have conditions like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, arthritis, or osteoporosis.
      

   • You're looking for long-term lifestyle and exercise interventions.
      

2. Rehabilitation for Long-Term Conditions:
    

   • Post-stroke, cancer recovery, or after cardiac events.
      

   • Managing long-term musculoskeletal issues where exercise is key.
      

3. General Fitness and Health Goals:
    

   • You want a tailored exercise plan for weight loss, strength, or cardiovascular fitness.
      

   • You're returning to exercise after injury or illness.
      

4. Medicare Chronic Disease Management Plan:
    

   • You’ve been referred by a GP under a CDM plan (formerly EPC) for chronic conditions. EPs are one of the allied health professionals covered.
      

5. WorkCover, MyAgedCare or DVA:
    

   • You're receiving support through these schemes for chronic or long-term functional improvement.

 

 

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✅ See a Physiotherapist:

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1. Acute Injury or Pain:
    

   • You have a recent injury (e.g., sprained ankle, back pain, sports injury).
      

   • You need hands-on treatment like joint mobilisation, dry needling, or soft tissue therapy.
      

2. Post-Surgical Rehabilitation (Initial Phase):
    

   • After surgery (e.g., ACL repair, shoulder reconstruction), especially in early stages of recovery.
      

3. Neurological or Complex Musculoskeletal Conditions:
    

   • You have issues like sciatica, vertigo (BPPV), or postural dysfunctions that need manual therapy and advanced diagnostics.
      

4. Assessment & Diagnosis:
    

   • You need a physical assessment and diagnosis of a new musculoskeletal complaint.