What’s the Difference Between Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology?

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Should I see a physio or an exercise physiologist?” — you’re not alone. Both professions often work with the same types of clients and both use exercise as part of their treatment. But their qualifications, the way they’re regulated, and the problems they focus on are actually quite different.

Understanding those differences can save you time, money, and frustration — and most importantly, help you get the right care when you need it.

Physiotherapists at a glance

Physiotherapists are AHPRA-registered health professionals. That means they can:

●  Assess and diagnose injuries and movement problems

●  Create and deliver a treatment plan

●  Use hands-on techniques (such as joint mobilisation, massage, or taping)

●  Guide your rehab through exercise and education

In other words, if you’ve just hurt yourself, had surgery, or have pain that hasn’t been explained yet, a physio is usually your first port of call.

What an Exercise Physiologist does

Exercise physiologists — often called EPs or Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) — are university-trained and accredited through ESSA. Unlike physiotherapists, they don’t do manual therapy or provide a diagnosis. Instead, they specialise in:

●       Designing individualised exercise programs for people with chronic conditions (such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, or mental health concerns

●  Supporting safe return to activity after injury or illness

●  Helping people make long-term lifestyle changes to improve function, confidence, and quality of life
You’ll often see EPs working in private practice, community health, aged care, and NDIS settings.

Where they overlap

Both professions are movement experts. Both use exercise as a key tool. And often, they’ll work together on the same client.

Think of it like a rehab pathway:

●  The physio gets you moving safely in the early or painful stages.

The EP keeps you moving in the long run, making sure you stay strong, resilient, and able to manage your condition or lifestyle goals.

Who should you see first?

Here’s a quick guide:

●  See a physiotherapist if: your problem is new, painful, or you’re not sure what’s wrong. They can diagnose and treat from day one.

●  See an exercise physiologist if: you already have a diagnosis or long-term condition, and you want a safe, structured plan to build strength, manage symptoms, and prevent flare-ups.

In many cases, you might start with a physio and then transition to an EP as you move from short-term recovery to long-term maintenance.

• Physiotherapy sees 5+ million visits every year in Australia (APA).

• Exercise Physiology reduces chronic disease-related hospital admissions by 20–30% (ESSA).

• Structured exercise programs can reduce persistent pain by up to 45% in 12 weeks.

Real-world examples

●  Rolled ankle on the weekend? A physio should assess it first to check for ligament or bone involvement. Later, an EP can build a program to reduce your risk of re-injury.

●  Managing diabetes and knee pain? An EP can design a safe exercise plan to improve blood sugar control, build strength, and support weight management — while working with your physio if pain needs hands-on care.

●  Recovering from a hip replacement? A physio will guide you through the early post-op rehab. Once you’re cleared, an EP can help you keep progressing and get back to hobbies and everyday life.

Why Choose Movement Therapy EP?

At Movement Therapy EP, we go beyond quick fixes. Our ESSA-accredited Exercise Physiologists specialise in personalised programs for long-term results — helping you rebuild strength, manage chronic conditions, and move confidently in everyday life.

Bringing it all together

Physiotherapists and exercise physiologists each play a crucial role in improving your health, movement, and long-term wellbeing — they simply help at different stages. Physios diagnose and treat injuries in the early or painful phases, while Exercise Physiologists specialise in long-term strength building, chronic condition management, and sustainable lifestyle change.

If you’re looking for expert, personalised support in Leichhardt NSW, Movement Therapy EP is here to guide you. Our ESSA-accredited Exercise Physiologists focus on meaningful, long-lasting results — not temporary fixes — helping you move better, feel stronger, and take control of your health.

👉 Ready to take the next step? Book your consultation with Movement Therapy EP in Leichhardt today and start building strength, confidence, and long-term wellbeing.

FAQs

• What is the main difference between a physiotherapist and an exercise physiologist?

  Physiotherapists diagnose and treat injuries with hands-on therapy and exercise. Exercise physiologists specialise in long-term, exercise-based programs for chronic conditions and lifestyle change.

• Can an exercise physiologist diagnose my injury?

  No. Only physiotherapists (AHPRA-registered) can assess and diagnose injuries.

• Should I see a physio or an EP first?

  See a physio for new or unexplained pain. See an EP for chronic conditions, long-term rehab, or structured exercise programs.

• Do both physios and EPs offer Medicare rebates?

  Yes, under a Chronic Disease Management Plan — but item numbers differ.

• Do exercise physiologists do hands-on therapy?

  No. They focus on exercise prescription, lifestyle change, and long-term functional improvement.

• Can physios and EPs work together?

  Yes. Many people start with physio for diagnosis and early rehab, then transition to an EP for long-term strength and management.