Top 10 Best Physiotherapists & Sports Physio Clinics in Melbourne 2025
Looking for the best physiotherapist in Melbourne? Whether you need sports physio treatment, injury rehabilitation, or general physiotherapy services, finding the right practitioner can make all the difference to your recovery and performance.
As an athlete here in Melbourne who's experienced everything from CrossFit injuries to straining my back in rowing with the Lorne boat club, I understand the frustration of finding a sports physiotherapist who truly gets your mindset. You're not looking for someone who'll simply tell you to "just rest" - you need the best physio who understands that missing your Saturday long run, evening F45 class, or training session just isn't an option.
After years of navigating Melbourne's physiotherapy landscape and working with numerous practitioners across the city, I've compiled this comprehensive guide to Melbourne's best physiotherapists for 2025. Each clinic and specialist listed has been carefully selected based on their expertise in sports physio, patient outcomes, and understanding of active lifestyles.
Find qualified physiotherapists near you with expert reviews, location details, treatment specialties, and booking information to help you get back to doing what you love, faster.
Much love, Peta.
The Best Physio Melbourne Practitioners All Share These 3 Key Traits
Expert Listening & Assessment Firstly, the best physios listen intently to your concerns without interrupting or dismissing your experience. They understand that your desk job-related neck pain is different from another professional's running injury, even if symptoms appear similar. They make eye contact, tune into your story, and consider how your injury impacts your work-life balance.
Tailored, Evidence-Based Diagnosis Outstanding physiotherapists don't use cookie-cutter approaches. They analyse your body, age, sports experience, and injury history as unique factors. Whether you're a CrossFit enthusiast dealing with shoulder impingement or a cyclist with persistent knee pain, they create personalised treatment plans based on your specific needs and goals.
Clear Communication & Ongoing Support Top Melbourne physiotherapists communicate complex diagnoses in terms you understand, provide emotional support during challenging recovery periods, and offer follow-up communication via email or apps. They respect your intelligence and keep you informed throughout your treatment journey.
Here is my list of the 10 Best Physiotherapists in Melbourne for 2025
Featuring standout talent from Evolutio Sports Physio, Ciclo Melbourne, HomeRun, South Melbourne Physio Centre, Foundry Athletic and Align Health Collective.
1. Bayden Campbell – Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond & HomeRun
Specialties: Complex injuries, running injuries, chronic foot pain, biomechanics, powerlifting injuries
Bayden Campbell is a senior physiotherapist and co-director at Evolutio with over nine years of experience. Known as the best physio in Melbourne for complex cases others struggle with, he specialises in running-related injuries, chronic foot pain, and biomechanics. His expertise in gait assessments and strength conditioning makes him the go-to professional for Richmond's serious runners training for marathons and half-marathons.
Perfect for: Active professionals with persistent foot/ankle issues, runners preparing for events, powerlifters seeking performance optimisation.
2. Alex Drew – Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond
Specialties: Shoulder and back injuries, CrossFit and powerlifting injuries, rehabilitation
Alex Drew founded Evolutio in 2013 specifically to serve high-level athletes who needed dedicated rehabilitation environments. With over 14 years of international experience, Alex understands the unique challenges facing Melbourne's active urban professionals. His work with Melbourne's top CrossFit athletes and powerlifters, plus his special interest in complex shoulder and back injuries, makes him ideal for desk-bound professionals who train hard.
Perfect for: CrossFit enthusiasts, professionals with shoulder/back pain, athletes returning from serious injuries.
3. Kristina Kluz – Torquay Sports Medicine Centre
Specialties: Foot & ankle pain, knee & hip issues, running injuries, instability & hypermobility, shoulder & neck injuries
With over ten years of international experience across Austria, Japan, and Australia, Kristina brings a global perspective to treating adventure sports injuries. Her holistic approach particularly resonates with Melbourne's environmentally conscious professionals who cycle to work and embrace outdoor weekend activities.
Perfect for: Runners with knee/hip issues, runners with chronic injuries, professionals managing hypermobility. enthusiasts!
4. Catya Josephides – Evolutio Sports Physio & HomeRun
Specialties: Complex injuries, shoulder & hip rehab, ACL issues, running-related injuries, contact sports
As Talent Academy Physio at Carlton FC and Head Physio at Tullamarine FC, Catya combines elite sports experience with compassionate care. Her expertise in hypermobility and connective tissue disorders makes her especially valuable for professionals dealing with complex, multi-system issues that other practitioners struggle to diagnose.
Perfect for: Athletes with complex injury patterns, ACL issues, Hip injuries, professionals with hypermobility issues, those needing pre/post-operative care.
5. Ashley Lynch – Foundry Athletic
Specialties: Elite sports rehab, ACL injuries, high-performance programming
Former Head of Rehabilitation at Essendon Football Club and Head Physio at Western United, Ashley brings elite-level precision to everyday athletes. His surgical knowledge and obsession with quality rehab programming appeals to Melbourne's performance-focused professionals who want to train harder without injury risk.
Perfect for: Weekend warriors returning from ACL surgery, professionals wanting elite-level injury prevention, high-performance athletes.
6. Gemma Mollenhauer – Ciclo Melbourne
Specialties: Cycling injuries, sports performance, RED-S in female athletes
Gemma is a physio by profession and a cycling weapon by passion. When she’s not treating injuries at Evolutio or Ciclo, she’s racing crits, gravel, track, or cyclocross with Duda Cycling. A former journalist turned physio (with Honours, no less), Gem's research into energy deficiency in elite female cyclists fuels her mission to help women train smart and race strong.
With experience as both an athlete and clinician, she bridges the gap between performance and recovery — and yes, she can probably fix your bike and your back. If she’s not hacking hormones for peak sports output, she’s likely baking something dangerously good.
7. Andy Chalmers – Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond
Specialties: ACL rehab, post-surgical recovery, high-performance sport
Andy Chalmers might just be the nicest physio this side of Kansas — and he’s got the clinical chops to back it up. With experience at Crystal Palace in the Premier League and a strong background in musculoskeletal and high-performance rehab, Andy specialises in surgical recovery (especially knees and ACLs) and getting clients back to full strength with no shortcuts.
Currently wrapping up his double Masters in High-Performance Sport and Sports Physio, Andy brings a globally informed, research-driven approach to every rehab plan. His style is detailed, hands-on, and deeply focused on long-term results — perfect for athletes and everyday legends alike.
8. Yomitha Navaratne – South Melbourne Sports Physio
Specialties: Sports injuries, exercise rehab, strength training
Yomitha (Yomi) combines clinical expertise with lived experience as a former state-level tennis and cricket player. A La Trobe grad, he’s worked across hospitals, sports clubs, and private practice, treating everything from post-op rehab to sideline sprains.
Known for his active, goal-driven approach, Yomi blends hands-on treatment with strength-based rehab to get clients not just back on track — but ahead of where they were. When he’s not lifting something heavy or chasing a tennis ball, you’ll find him exploring Melbourne’s food scene or making music.
9. Phill Danzi – Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond
Specialties: Olympic lifting, CrossFit rehab, ACL injuries
With over eight years of elite-level experience, Phill is considered one of Australia’s leading physiotherapists for Olympic weightlifting, CrossFit athletes, and ACL rehabilitation. As the past Rehab Lead for the Western Bulldogs AFLW team, Phill merges elite sporting insight with clinical precision. His passion lies in guiding athletes through long-term rehab journeys—particularly complex post-op knees—while focusing on building real-world strength and resilience. Phill’s deep knowledge of high-performance rehab makes him a sought-after mentor for emerging practitioners.
10. Niamh Proctor – Align Health Collective
Specialties: Neck pain, back pain, knee, shoulder, ankle injuries, musculoskeletal care
Niamh Proctor is your go-to physio for treating everything from neck and back pain to knee, shoulder, and ankle injuries. With a 1st Class Honours degree from Glasgow Caledonian University, she’s got the skills to back up her compassionate approach.
When she’s not helping patients recover from trauma or managing long-term conditions like heart rehab or elderly mobility, Niamh is hiking, cycling, doing yoga, and volunteering in the community. She’s all about addressing the root causes of your pain so you can stay healthy and mobile long-term.
How to Choose the Right Physiotherapist in Melbourne
Choosing the right physiotherapist in Melbourne can be overwhelming, given the over 500 registered practitioners across the city. Here's your complete guide to making the best choice for your specific needs.
Step 1: Identify Your Specific Needs
Sports Injuries: If you're dealing with sports-related injuries, look for physiotherapists with a background in sports medicine. Athletes from AFL teams, Olympic training programs, and local sporting clubs often require specialised knowledge of biomechanics and performance optimisation.
Chronic Pain Management: For ongoing conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or persistent back pain, seek physiotherapists with experience in pain science and the management of chronic conditions.
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: Recovery from orthopedic surgery requires physiotherapists familiar with surgical protocols and progressive rehabilitation techniques.
Workplace Injuries: WorkCover and TAC injuries often require physiotherapists experienced with insurance documentation and return-to-work programs.
Step 2: Check Qualifications and Specialisations
Essential Qualifications to Look For:
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Physiotherapy
AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) registration
Continuing education certifications
Professional association memberships (Australian Physiotherapy Association)
Specialised Certifications:
Dry needling certification
Manual therapy qualifications
Sports physiotherapy specialisation
Women's health physiotherapy training
Neurological rehabilitation expertise
Step 3: Consider Location and Accessibility
Melbourne CBD Physiotherapists: Convenient for office workers and those using public transport. Expect higher costs but potentially more specialised services.
Suburban Physiotherapy Clinics: Often more affordable with easier parking. Great for families and those preferring a community clinic feel.
Home Visit Physiotherapy: Ideal for elderly patients, those with mobility issues, or those requiring post-surgical care that can be managed at home.
Step 4: Evaluate Communication Style
The best physiotherapists in Melbourne share common communication traits:
Active listening without interrupting to address your concerns
Clear explanations of your condition in understandable terms
Collaborative treatment planning involving you in decision-making
Regular progress updates and plan adjustments
Accessible follow-up via email or phone when needed
Melbourne Physiotherapy Specialisations Guide
Melbourne's diverse physiotherapy landscape offers specialised care for virtually every condition. Understanding these specialisations helps you find the perfect match for your needs.
Sports Physiotherapy in Melbourne
What It Involves: Sports physiotherapy focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating sports-related injuries while optimising athletic performance.
Common Conditions Treated:
ACL tears and reconstruction rehabilitation
Shoulder impingement and rotator cuff injuries
Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
Ankle sprains and chronic instability
Hamstring strains and tears
Stress fractures and overuse injuries
Best For:
Professional and amateur athletes
Weekend warriors
People returning to sport after injury
Performance optimisation seekers
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
What It Involves: Treatment of bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons affecting movement and function.
Common Conditions Treated:
Lower back pain and disc problems
Neck pain and headaches
Knee pain and osteoarthritis
Hip pain and bursitis
Workplace injuries
Postural problems
Best For:
Office workers with repetitive strain
Manual laborers
Chronic pain sufferers
Post-accident rehabilitation
Neurological Physiotherapy
What It Involves: Specialised treatment for conditions affecting the nervous system, focusing on movement, balance, and functional independence.
Common Conditions Treated:
Stroke recovery and rehabilitation
Parkinson's disease management
Multiple sclerosis support
Spinal cord injury rehabilitation
Traumatic brain injury recovery
Vestibular disorders and dizziness
Best For:
Stroke survivors
Patients with progressive neurological conditions
Balance and coordination issues
Complex movement disorders
Women's Health Physiotherapy
What It Involves: Specialised care for women's unique health needs throughout all life stages.
Common Conditions Treated:
Pelvic floor dysfunction
Pregnancy-related pain
Post-natal recovery
Incontinence issues
Pelvic organ prolapse
Chronic pelvic pain
Best For:
Pregnant and post-natal women
Pelvic floor dysfunction
Women experiencing incontinence
Pre and post-gynecological surgery
Pediatric Physiotherapy
What It Involves: Specialised treatment for infants, children, and adolescents with developmental or acquired conditions.
Common Conditions Treated:
Developmental delays
Cerebral palsy
Muscular dystrophy
Sports injuries in young athletes
Postural problems
Coordination difficulties
Best For:
Children with developmental delays
Young athletes
Postural issues in school-aged children
Pediatric neurological conditions
Comprehensive FAQ Section
General Physiotherapy Questions
Q: How do I know if I need to see a physiotherapist?
A: You should consider seeing a physiotherapist if you experience:
Persistent pain lasting more than a few days
Reduced range of motion or stiffness
Difficulty performing daily activities
Recurring injuries or pain patterns
Post-surgical rehabilitation needs
Work-related strain or injury
Sports performance optimization goals
Q: Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist in Melbourne?
A: No, you don't need a referral to see a physiotherapist in Australia. However, a GP referral is required for:
Medicare rebates through Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plans
WorkCover claims
Some insurance benefits
DVA claims
Q: What's the difference between a physiotherapist and other health professionals?
A: Physiotherapists specialise in movement and function, differing from:
Chiropractors: Focus primarily on spinal adjustments
Massage therapists: Concentrate on soft tissue manipulation
Osteopaths: Use manual therapy with a holistic approach
Exercise physiologists: Specialise in exercise prescription for chronic conditions
Choosing a Physiotherapist
Q: What qualifications should I look for in a Melbourne physiotherapist?
A: Essential qualifications include:
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Physiotherapy from accredited university
AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) registration
Current professional indemnity insurance
Continuing professional development participation
Australian Physiotherapy Association membership (preferred)
Q: How do I find a physiotherapist who specialises in my condition?
A: To find a specialist:
Ask your GP for recommendations
Use the Australian Physiotherapy Association's "Find a Physio" tool
Check clinic websites for specialist areas
Read online reviews and testimonials
Call clinics directly to discuss your needs
Consider location and accessibility factors
Q: What questions should I ask when choosing a physiotherapist?
A: Important questions include:
What experience do you have with my condition?
What's your treatment approach and philosophy?
How many sessions do you typically recommend?
What are your fees and payment options?
Do you bulk bill or accept my health insurance?
What's your cancellation policy?
Do you provide exercise programs and home care advice?
Treatment and Appointments
Q: What should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
A: Wear:
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
Athletic wear or exercise clothes
Clothing that allows access to the area being treated
Supportive athletic shoes
Avoid jeans, tight clothing, or formal wear
Bring a change of clothes if coming from work
Q: How long does a typical physiotherapy session last?
A: Session lengths vary:
Initial consultations: 45-60 minutes
Standard follow-up sessions: 30-45 minutes
Specialised treatments: 45-60 minutes
Group sessions: 45-60 minutes
Quick check-ups: 15-30 minutes
Q: How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?
A: Treatment duration depends on:
Acute injuries: 3-6 sessions over 2-4 weeks
Chronic conditions: 6-12 sessions over 6-12 weeks
Post-surgical rehabilitation: 12-24 sessions over 3-6 months
Preventive care: Ongoing monthly or quarterly sessions
Performance optimisation: Varies based on goals
Q: What happens if I miss an appointment?
A: Cancellation policies typically include:
24-hour cancellation notice required
Late cancellation fees: $50-$100
No-show fees: Full session cost
Emergency cancellations usually waived
Multiple no-shows may result in pre-payment requirements
Costs and Insurance
Q: How much does physiotherapy cost in Melbourne?
A: 2025 Melbourne physiotherapy costs:
Initial consultation: $120-$220
Standard session: $90-$140
Specialist treatment: $120-$180
Home visits: $180-$280
Group sessions: $40-$80
Q: Can I claim physiotherapy on Medicare?
A: Medicare benefits available through:
Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plans with GP referral
Up to 5 subsidised sessions per calendar year
Approximately $60 rebate per session
Chronic Disease Management plans
Team Care Arrangements for complex conditions
Q: Does private health insurance cover physiotherapy?
A: Most private health insurance "extras" cover includes:
$40-$100 per session coverage
Annual limits: $500-$2000
Waiting periods for new policies
Preferred provider discounts
No-gap or reduced-gap options at some clinics
Q: How do I know if I've found the best physio Melbourne has for my condition?
A: You've likely found the best physiotherapist Melbourne can provide when you experience:
Comprehensive initial assessment (45+ minutes)
Clear communication about your condition and treatment plan
Steady improvement in symptoms and function
Feeling heard, understood, and actively involved in your care
Confidence in the practitioner's expertise and approach
Realistic expectations and timelines for recovery
Strong professional reputation and positive patient reviews
The best physio Melbourne practitioners also demonstrate ongoing professional development, evidence-based practice, and genuine care for patient outcomes rather than just treatment volume.
Q: What's the difference between a good physiotherapist and the best physio Melbourne offers?
A: While good physiotherapists provide competent care, the best physio Melbourne delivers:
Advanced specialisation in specific conditions or treatment approaches
Research involvement and contribution to the physiotherapy profession
Exceptional communication skills that make complex concepts understandable
Personalised treatment that goes beyond standard protocols
Comprehensive care coordination with other healthcare providers when needed
Innovation adoption of latest evidence-based techniques and technologies
Mentorship roles in training other physiotherapists
Q: Are the most expensive physiotherapists always the best physio Melbourne has?
A: Not necessarily. The best physiotherapist Melbourne offers isn't always the most expensive. Consider:
Value over cost: Quality outcomes matter more than hourly rates
Specialisation premium: Specialists may charge more but provide targeted expertise
Location factors: CBD practices often have higher overheads than suburban clinics
Insurance benefits: Some excellent practitioners accept various insurance schemes
Outcome efficiency: The best physio Melbourne might resolve your issue faster, making them more cost-effective overall
Focus on qualifications, experience, patient outcomes, and communication quality rather than price alone when seeking the best physio Melbourne has to offer.
Specific Conditions and Treatments
Q: What conditions do physiotherapists treat?
A: Physiotherapists treat:
Musculoskeletal: Back pain, neck pain, joint problems, arthritis
Sports injuries: Sprains, strains, overuse injuries, post-surgery
Neurological: Stroke, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, spinal injuries
Respiratory: COPD, post-COVID rehabilitation, breathing difficulties
Women's health: Pelvic floor dysfunction, pregnancy-related pain
Pediatric: Developmental delays, sports injuries, postural problems
Q: Do physiotherapists prescribe medication?
A: No, physiotherapists in Australia cannot prescribe medication. However, they can:
Recommend over-the-counter pain relief
Advise on ice/heat therapy
Suggest topical anti-inflammatory creams
Coordinate with GPs for prescription needs
Provide injection therapy referrals
Q: What's the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
A: Dry needling:
Targets trigger points and muscle knots
Based on Western medical principles
Performed by trained physiotherapists
Focuses on musculoskeletal conditions
Acupuncture:
Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine
Uses energy meridians and points
Performed by registered acupuncturists
Treats broader range of conditions
Melbourne-Specific Questions
Q: Which Melbourne suburbs have the best physiotherapy clinics?
A: Top areas include:
Inner Melbourne: Richmond, Fitzroy, St Kilda (specialist sports medicine)
Eastern suburbs: Kew, Camberwell, Malvern (family practices)
Northern suburbs: Preston, Essendon (community-focused)
Western suburbs: Footscray, Williamstown (affordable options)
Southern suburbs: Brighton, Bentleigh (lifestyle-focused)
Q: Do Melbourne physiotherapists work with local sports teams?
A: Many Melbourne physiotherapists work with:
AFL teams (Richmond, Collingwood, Essendon, etc.)
A-League soccer teams
NBL basketball teams
Local cricket and football clubs
School sports programs
Elite athlete training centers
Q: Are there physiotherapists who speak languages other than English?
A: Yes, Melbourne's multicultural physiotherapy community includes practitioners who speak:
Mandarin and Cantonese
Greek and Italian
Arabic and Persian
Hindi and Punjabi
Spanish and Portuguese
Vietnamese and Thai
Q: Can I get physiotherapy covered under NDIS in Melbourne?
A: NDIS physiotherapy coverage includes:
Must be NDIS participant with approved plan
Current rate: $183.99 per hour (2025)
Available for self-managed, plan-managed, or NDIA-managed participants
Focus on functional improvement and independence
Travel costs may apply for home visits
Q: What should I do if I'm not happy with my physiotherapist?
A: If unsatisfied with treatment:
Discuss concerns directly with your physiotherapist
Request a different therapist at the same clinic
Seek a second opinion elsewhere
Contact the clinic manager or director
File a complaint with AHPRA if necessary
Consider changing to a different practice
Q: How do I find a physiotherapist who bulk bills in Melbourne?
A: To find bulk billing physiotherapists:
Call clinics directly to inquire
Check practice websites for billing information
Ask about concession card discounts
Look for community health centers
Consider outer suburban practices
Inquire about EPC plan bulk billing options