specialist physiotherapy
For chronic, complex and important health conditions that require a higher level of expertise
What to expect
from a specialist Physiotherapist
1
To be asked what you want
2 A clear explanation of your problem
3 A list of factors contributing to your problem
4 A clear plan of what you can do
5 To receive care aligned with the latest knowledge and evidence
2 A clear explanation of your problem
3 A list of factors contributing to your problem
4 A clear plan of what you can do
5 To receive care aligned with the latest knowledge and evidence
The Highest Level of Clinical Physiotherapy Training
The pathway from graduate physiotherapist to specialist physiotherapist takes a minimum of six years and training occurs through the Australian College of Physiotherapists.
To be eligible to enter the College, physiotherapists must work for at least two years in advanced practice in their specialty area and complete a clinical Masters degree (or equivalent). In addition, they must participate in education, research and mentoring.
College registrars then undergo the two-year specialisation training program, culminating in rigorous oral and practical examinations that ensure only the most skilled clinicians hold the title of Specialist Physiotherapist.
Fatima is a 49 year old, mother of three, who has lived with widespread back and leg pain for over twenty years. She has tried a range of medications, spinal injections, physiotherapy, chiropractic and exercise treatments. Fatima has attended a specialist physiotherapist for an expert opinion on further options…
Ben is a Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist who works in a private clinic that has a special interest in spinal pain. When he has a client who is not responding to treatment as expected, he will arrange a second opinion session with a specialist musculoskeletal physiotherapist. Ben attends this session with his client and is able to directly observe the consultation…
Telehealth
Using technology to give everybody access to specialist care, no matter where.
Consultations using a digital device (computer, tablet) or telephone (mobile or landline).
From the comfort of your own home or office, and without the time and expense of travel.
Access for people living in rural and remote locations, and those with disability or mobility issues.
What is lost from the hands is gained from seeing people in their homes or workplaces.
Specialist Physiotherapists have the skills and experience to provide telehealth consultations.
Other roles
Specialist Physiotherapists also work in a variety of roles beyond direct patient care.
Alternative reviews of people who have already had treatment but are not recovering as expected.
Collaborative care with physiotherapists, general practitioners and medical specialists.
Professional development for physiotherapists, other health care providers, the general public and businesses.
Investigating clinical problems and translating care into the general community or healthcare settings.
Personal coaching opportunities to advance individual practitioner’s knowledge and skills.