No one enjoys being injured or in pain, so naturally, we look for a solution to our problem. For most people, it can be a challenge to work out who will provide the right type of care and treatment. Below we will discuss the differences between a physiotherapist and an exercise physiologist (EP) and help you work out when to see either professional.
Firstly, it is important to note, there are a lot of similarities between these industries. Both physiotherapists and EPs deal with pain, injuries, health and many aspects of well-being.
The biggest difference between the two industries is that physiotherapists are primarily hands-on, while EPs are primarily hands-off.
Physiotherapists are highly skilled professionals with an in-depth knowledge of the human body. They are primarily focused on the restoration of normal function, particularly in the acute (beginning) stages of an injury. It is the job of a physiotherapist to help you get relief from pain, and return to a baseline level of function. With chronic health conditions, physiotherapists can be of great help to relieve pain, provide advice regarding lifestyle choices and help create an appropriate exercise program.
Do you have a new or undiagnosed injury?
Suffered an acute sporting injury?
Have you undergone recent orthopaedic surgery?
Do you require symptom relief through hands-on treatments like massage or mobilisations?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions then a physiotherapist is most likely the best person for you to see.
Exercise physiologists are more focused on the long term rehabilitation, especially with chronic health issues. They are highly skilled in exercise prescription, with a detailed knowledge of health. It is helpful to think of exercise physiologists as highly trained coaches.
Are you trying to get fit whilst recovering from an injury?
Do you have any chronic health issues that may make training difficult?
Do you need additional help in tailoring an exercise program due to a more complicated medical history?
Do you need an exercise plan tailored to help treat a chronic health condition?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions then an exercise physiologist is most likely the best person for you to see.
As mentioned earlier, there are several similarities between the two professionals. Primarily, it is that they are both capable of helping with many health concerns.
They are both licensed health professionals with medical training
They both manage acute and chronic health issues
Physiotherapists and EPs both have an exercise focused approach
The differences between the two professionals are usually in the timeline of treatment. Below is a simple diagram explaining the role of physiotherapists and exercise physiologists with respect to the overall injury timeline.
Physiotherapists will operate inside a private clinic whereas EPs will tend to operate in the setting of a gym
Physiotherapists will use hands-on treatment techniques
EPs will use hands-off treatment techniques
If you are still unsure as to who can help you the most, then perhaps you are someone who requires treatment from both! Physiotherapists and exercise physiologists are familiar with working in a team and can collaborate together to give you the best outcome.
