Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology: Different Roles, Same Team

When it comes to recovery, movement, and health, two professions often work side by side: Physiotherapists and Exercise Physiologists (EPs). While our work overlaps, our areas of expertise are different - and that’s exactly why we complement each other so well.

What is a Physiotherapist?

Physiotherapists are highly trained in diagnosing injuries, providing hands-on treatment, and managing the acute phase of recovery. They often work with people who have:

• Just had surgery (e.g., knee replacement, ACL repair)

• Sustained a recent injury

• Require manual therapy or targeted rehabilitation in the short term

Their role is essential in getting you moving again safely after an injury or operation.

What is an Exercise Physiologist?

Exercise Physiologists specialise in the long-term phase of rehabilitation and the management of chronic health conditions. Our expertise lies in prescribing safe, individualised exercise programs that:

• Support recovery after the initial physiotherapy stage

• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, COPD, or cancer

• Reduce the risk of further injury or health decline

• Improve overall function, fitness

  , and quality of life

We’re not just focused on short-term recovery - we’re focused on helping you move well for life.

How We Work Together

Think of recovery and health as a timeline:

• Physiotherapy is often at the start - restoring movement, reducing pain, and addressing the immediate problem.

• Exercise Physiology continues the journey - building long-term strength, resilience, and health outcomes through safe, targeted exercise.

Both professions overlap and communicate to ensure you’re supported at every stage. Together, we form a powerful team: physiotherapists help you get back on your feet, and exercise physiologists help you stay there - and thrive.

The Takeaway

Physios and EPs don’t replace one another - we complement one another. Physiotherapy guides the early recovery. Exercise Physiology carries you forward into long-term rehabilitation and chronic disease management, where exercise becomes medicine for the body and mind.

If you’re recovering from injury and living with a chronic condition, the best results often come from working with both.