What is the difference between a Physiotherapist and Exercise Physiologist?

When it comes to selecting the right NDIS support, seeking the right kind of expertise is crucial.

In some cases, a participant may require the assistance of a Physiotherapist and/or an Exercise Physiologist, both of whom specialize in rehabilitation and treatment of injuries and disorders. However, many people often confuse these two professions or are unaware of the differences between them. In this article, we will explore the key distinctions between Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology, their respective scopes of practice, and the types of treatments they offer.

Understanding the differences between these two health professions can help you make informed decisions about which type of care you need to reach your goals.

What’s the key difference between a Physiotherapist and an Exercise Physiologist?

Before delving into the details of each profession, it's essential to provide a brief overview. Exercise Physiologists utilize clinical exercise interventions and programs as their primary mode of treatment for patients. In contrast, Physiotherapists assess, diagnose, treat, and manage injuries, disabilities, and pain through hands-on treatment and exercise prescription.

What does an Exercise Physiologist do?

Exercise Physiologists are university-qualified allied health professionals. Their expertise lies in using exercise and movement programs as the main form of treatment to aid in the prevention and management of chronic diseases and injuries. Such programs play a crucial role in the rehabilitation and capacity-building process by facilitating functional restoration and reducing the pain and discomfort of the participant. Additionally, Exercise Physiology programs may place significant emphasis on behavioural and lifestyle change, as well as self-management techniques to enhance the overall quality of life and well-being.

Is exercise physiology covered by NDIS?

Absolutely, funding for exercise physiology can come from one of two budget areas in an NDIS plan:

• Capacity building – Improved Daily Living

• Capacity building – Improved Health and Wellbeing

What is the NDIS rate for exercise physiology?

The current NDIA price limit for individual exercise physiology services delivered in NSW and in a non-remote location is $166.99/hour (GST inclusive).

What does a physiotherapist do?

Physiotherapists are also university-qualified allied health professionals. Physiotherapists assess, diagnose, treat and manage conditions, disabilities, injuries and disorders that affect the movement and function of your body. Physiotherapists create tailored treatment plans using a range of modalities that are designed to meet each participant's specific needs and goals. This may include programs to help participants improve their function through exercises, stretches and advice to enhance strength, coordination, endurance and range of motion. However, a Physiotherapist is permitted to do certain things within their 'scope of practice' which an Exercise Physiologist not is permitted to do. Physiotherapists are able to diagnose various injuries and health conditions and are authorized to apply hands-on techniques, such as massage, joint mobilization, dry needling, and manipulation. In addition, they can offer expert advice on assistive technology, such as appliances, aids, or equipment like wheelchairs and walking aids, and can prescribe them when needed

Is physiotherapy covered by NDIS?

Yes, funding for physiotherapy can come from two budget areas in an NDIS plan:

• Core support - Assistance with Daily Life

• Capacity building – Improved Daily Living

What is the NDIS rate for Physiotherapy?

The current NDIA price limit for individual Physiotherapy services delivered in NSW and in a non-remote location is $193.99/hour.

Does Realisation Healthcare offer physiotherapy and exercise physiology?

Realisation Healthcare also offers a range of Allied Health services, including Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology as well as Occupational Therapy and Dietetics.

Regardless of your chosen therapy support. At Realisation Healthcare, we get to know you as an individual and how your disability impacts your quality of life, function and well-being. We use the Realisation Healthcare Approach to understand everything about you, what is important to you, and your goals and aspirations and combine it with our tailored and individualised physiotherapy services to get you to be able to live life to the fullest. Our ultimate goal is to help our clients realise their full potential and live life to the fullest. With the Realisation Healthcare approach, you can be sure that you will receive compassionate and effective care designed to meet your unique needs and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

We respond to all queries and questions within 24 hours, and bookings can be made within a week. Contact us today through phone, email or for a casual chat over messenger to see how we can help you. You can also fill out the referral form by clicking on the button below.

Frequently asked questions:

What is the difference between an Exercise Physiologist and Personal Trainer?

An Exercise Physiologist must complete at a minimum a 4-year university degree and be accredited with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). Exercise Physiologists are experts in exercise and see individuals who are at risk of developing or with existing chronic and complex medical conditions, athletes, healthy individuals and are members of the health/medical sector with Medicare Provider Numbers. On the other hand, a Personal Trainer requires a Certificate 4 in fitness which can be obtained in less than 6 months of training. Personal trainers work with low-risk populations i.e healthy populations.

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