Physiotherapists assist people affected by injury, illness or disability through movement and exercise, manual therapy, education and advice. They maintain health for people of all ages, helping patients to manage pain and prevent disease.

Physiotherapists are involved in the assessment, diagnosis, planning and management of patient care across a broad range of areas with musculoskeletal, cardiothoracic and neurological problems. They help patients with chronic disease management, provide lifestyle modification and self-management advice, prescribe aids and appliances, prescribe and supervise exercises for both patients and carers, and provide health promotion education, occupational health assessments and injury prevention activities (1).

Physiotherapists work across various health settings including private practices, public and private hospitals, community health centres, residential aged care facilities and sports organisations.

Physiotherapists are required by law to be registered under the National Physiotherapy Board of Australia.