Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond: Your Questions Answered
Welcome to our comprehensive FAQ section. We've compiled answers to common questions to help you understand our services and clinic. If you can't find what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us directly.
Getting Started
What should I expect at my first physio appointment at Evolutio Richmond?
Your first visit to Evolutio is designed to be welcoming and comprehensive. Here's exactly what happens during your 45-minute initial assessment:
Before Your Session: Arrive 10-15 minutes early. You'll be greeted personally by your physiotherapist or admin team in our unique warehouse-style waiting area - think reclaimed wood furniture, coffee available, and carefully curated indie music rather than a sterile medical environment.
Initial Consultation (15 minutes): Your physiotherapist will sit down with you to gain a deeper understanding of your story. We'll discuss how your injury occurred, what activities make it better or worse, and importantly, what your goals are. Whether you're a Richmond local dealing with desk-related pain or elite athlete training for the Melbourne Marathon, we want to understand how this injury is impacting your life.
Physical Assessment (20 minutes): This includes testing your strength, flexibility, movement patterns, and any specific areas of concern. We may assess your posture, gait, and perform special tests relevant to your condition. For Richmond cyclists, this might include bike-specific movement assessments. For office workers, we'll examine how prolonged sitting affects your body.
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan (10 minutes): Your physiotherapist will explain the findings in clear, easy-to-understand terms, without using medical jargon. We'll discuss your diagnosis, expected recovery timeline, and create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your busy Melbourne lifestyle.
Initial Treatment: Unlike many clinics, we begin hands-on treatment in your first session. This might include manual therapy, gentle mobilisation, or specific exercises, depending on your condition.
What to Bring:
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing (shorts for lower body issues, singlet for shoulder/neck problems)
Any relevant scans, reports, or referral letters
Your sports shoes if you have a lower limb or back issue
A list of questions you'd like to ask
What Makes Evolutio Different:
Personal greeting from your physio (no reception desk barriers)
Non-clinical atmosphere with coffee and music
45-minute comprehensive assessments (many clinics only offer 30 minutes)
Treatment begins immediately, not just assessment
Clear communication about your condition and next steps
After Your Session: Within 48 hours, you'll receive an email summary including your diagnosis, treatment plan, home exercises (with video links), and clear timeline expectations. You'll know exactly what to expect moving forward.
How much does physiotherapy cost in Melbourne? What are Evolutio's fees?
Understanding physiotherapy costs in Melbourne helps you make informed decisions about your healthcare investment. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:
Melbourne Physiotherapy Cost Range (2025):
Initial consultations: $100-$200 (varies by clinic and practitioner experience)
Follow-up sessions: $90-$150
Metropolitan areas like Richmond tend to be on the higher end due to overhead costs and practitioner expertise
Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond Pricing:
Initial Assessment (45 minutes): $175
Follow-up Sessions (30 minutes): $115
Specialised Services:
Bike fitting assessment: From $250
Sports dietitian consultation: Varies
Membership programs: Contact for details
Payment Options:
EFTPOS, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), cash
HICAPS available for instant private health insurance claims
Insurance and Rebates: Private Health Insurance: If you have "extras" cover including physiotherapy, you can claim a portion through HICAPS, meaning you only pay the gap amount on the spot. Rebate amounts vary by insurer and level of cover.
Medicare EPC Plans: With a GP referral for an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan, you can claim $58.30 back from Medicare. You pay the full fee upfront, and we process the rebate immediately, leaving an out-of-pocket expense of approximately $67 for initial sessions and $37 for follow-ups.
WorkSafe Claims:
Initial consultation gap: $41.76
Follow-up session gap: $48.40
You need a case manager and claim number
TAC Claims: We can bulk bill directly with a claim number and case manager - no out-of-pocket expense for you.
DVA (Department of Veterans Affairs):
Gold card holders: Bulk billed directly
White card holders: Require GP referral, then bulk billed
Value for Money Considerations: Rather than seeing physiotherapy as just an expense, consider it an investment in your health and productivity. For Richmond professionals, the cost of ongoing pain, missed work days, or reduced performance often far exceeds physiotherapy costs. Early intervention typically requires fewer sessions than chronic conditions.
Cost Comparison - Public vs Private: Public physiotherapy is available but often involves long waiting lists (sometimes months). For busy professionals who can't afford extended time off work or training, private physiotherapy provides immediate access and more personalised care.
Payment Plans: We offer membership programs for select clients who require ongoing care, providing access to regular sessions, WhatsApp communication with your physiotherapist, sports dietitian services, and personalised training programs.
How long does physiotherapy take to work? When will I see results?
The timeline for physiotherapy results varies significantly based on your condition, but here's what you can realistically expect:
Immediate Relief (1-2 sessions): Many patients experience some pain relief and improved movement after their first or second session. This is particularly common for:
Acute muscle strains
Joint stiffness from poor posture
Recent sports injuries
Tension-related neck and shoulder pain
Significant Improvement (4-6 weeks): Most conditions show substantial improvement within 4-6 weeks of consistent treatment. This includes:
Desk-related injuries (tech neck, lower back pain)
Running injuries (runner's knee, shin splints)
Cycling-related issues (knee pain, back stiffness)
Recovery from minor surgeries
Complete Recovery (2-6 months): More complex conditions may require longer treatment:
Chronic pain conditions
Post-surgical rehabilitation
Severe ligament or muscle tears
Complex biomechanical issues
Factors That Influence Recovery Speed:
1. Injury Type and Severity:
Acute injuries (recent): Typically heal faster
Chronic conditions (3+ months): Require longer, progressive treatment
Soft tissue injuries: 4-6 weeks minimum healing time
Bone fractures: 6-8 weeks baseline healing
2. Your Commitment: Patients who consistently complete home exercise programs recover 2-3 times faster than those who don't. This includes:
Daily prescribed exercises
Activity modifications we recommend
Attending sessions as scheduled
Following ergonomic advice for work setups
3. Age and Fitness Level:
Younger, fitter individuals typically recover faster
Previous injury history can impact recovery time
Overall health status affects healing capacity
4. Professional Demands: For busy Richmond professionals, we often see faster recovery when treatment integrates with work demands rather than requiring significant time off.
Evolutio's Approach to Recovery:
Week 1-2: Pain Relief and Assessment
Reduce acute pain and inflammation
Restore basic movement
Begin gentle strengthening
Educate about condition and recovery process
Week 3-6: Progressive Strengthening
Increase exercise intensity
Address movement patterns
Return to modified activities
Focus on preventing recurrence
Week 6+: Return to Full Activity
Sport-specific or work-specific exercises
Performance optimization
Long-term maintenance strategies
Gradual return to pre-injury activity levels
Realistic Expectations for Common Conditions:
Desk-Related Pain:
Neck tension: 2-4 weeks
Lower back pain: 4-8 weeks
Shoulder impingement: 6-12 weeks
Sports Injuries:
Ankle sprains: 2-6 weeks
Running injuries: 6-12 weeks
CrossFit-related injuries: 4-10 weeks
Signs That Physiotherapy is Working:
Decreased pain levels during daily activities
Improved sleep quality
Better movement and flexibility
Increased strength and endurance
Ability to return to previous activities
Reduced pain medication dependence
When to Be Concerned: If you're not seeing any improvement after 3-4 sessions, your physiotherapist should reassess your condition. Sometimes this indicates:
Need for additional imaging or medical review
Different treatment approach required
Underlying condition that needs specialist attention
Maximising Your Recovery Speed:
Attend sessions consistently
Complete home exercise programs daily
Communicate openly about your progress
Make recommended lifestyle modifications
Address contributing factors (stress, sleep, nutrition)
Follow activity modification guidelines
Remember, physiotherapy isn't just about treating your current injury - it's about getting you back to full function and preventing future problems. The investment in proper rehabilitation now saves time, money, and frustration later.
Billing & Payment
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept EFTPOS, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), and cash. For your convenience, we offer HICAPS for on-the-spot private health insurance claims, meaning you only pay the gap amount.
Can I use an EPC Plan (Chronic Disease Management Plan) at Evolutio?
Yes, if your GP has provided you with an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) or Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan, you can use it for Medicare-subsidised physiotherapy services at Evolutio. You will typically pay the full fee upfront, and we can process the Medicare rebate for you on the spot (currently $58.30), leaving an out-of-pocket gap.
Do you accept WorkSafe or TAC claims?
Yes we do treat Workcover and TAC Injuries here at Evolutio.
TAC - For TAC Injuries, you will need a claim number and a case manager. We can then organise payment directly with TAC and bulk bill you. You can read more about the TAC here
For Workcover Injuries, individuals will need a case manager and a claim number, there is a GAP of $41.76 for the Initial Consultation, and $48.40 for follow up sessions. (This is because we give detailed 45-minute Initial sessions and 30 minutes follow up sessions) You can read more about Workcover here.
Do you accept Department of Veterans Affairs cards?
Yes we accept Department of Veterans Affairs Cards. If you're a DVA patient. We can bulk bill directly all gold card members, just bring in your card or upload it when booking. If you're a white card holder, we just need your card and a referral from a GP for Physiotherapy. If you need any help with this, just contact us via info@evolutio.com.au
Is physiotherapy a good investment for injury prevention, not just treatment?
Absolutely. Many of our Richmond professionals use physio proactively - it's much more cost-effective to prevent injuries than treat major ones that could sideline you from work and training for weeks. Think of it as maintenance for your body, like servicing your car.
Do you offer package deals for regular maintenance sessions?
We offer memberships to select clients after establishing a relationship. These include regular sessions, WhatsApp access to your physio, sports dietitian consultations, and personalised training programs tailored to your activity of choice.
Booking & Appointments
Can I book my appointment online?
Yes, you can easily book your appointments online through our website. Our online booking system is available 24/7, allowing you to select your preferred physiotherapist, time, and service at your convenience.
What is your policy for changing or cancelling appointments?
We require at least 24 hours' notice if you need to change or cancel your appointment. This allows us to offer the slot to another patient who may require care. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur a fee. You can manage your booking online or by calling us.
Can I talk to a Physiotherapist first before coming in?
Sure, we'd be more than happy to chat with you. If you Whatsapp message +61430436531, our first available Physio will call you back as soon as possible to discuss your issue and guide you. Alternatively, you can call us at +6191003798 or email info@evolutio.com.au, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
What if I arrive late for my appointment?
Please notify us if you anticipate being late. While we will do our best to accommodate, your session may need to be shortened to ensure subsequent appointments run on time. We aim to provide every patient with their full scheduled treatment duration.
What should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
We recommend wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your treatment area. For example, a t-shirt or singlet and shorts/leggings are often suitable. Sometimes, we may need to assess your spine and surrounding areas, as they can influence your specific condition.
How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required varies for each individual. It depends on factors such as your specific injury, how long you've experienced symptoms, your personal goals, and your commitment to your home exercise program. Following your initial assessment, we will provide an estimated treatment timeline and regularly review your progress with you.
I work long hours - do you have early morning or evening appointments?
Yes, we're open Monday-Thursday 8:00 AM-7:30 PM and Friday 8:00 AM-6:00 PM to accommodate busy professional schedules. Many of our Richmond clients book early morning sessions before work or evening appointments after their commute.
Do you send appointment reminders via text or email?
Yes, we send automatic appointment reminders via SMS and email. You can also manage your appointments through our online booking system, which is mobile-friendly for busy professionals on the go.
Can I communicate with my physio between appointments?
Yes, you can email your physiotherapist for general exercise questions or minor concerns. For members, we also offer WhatsApp communication during business hours for quick questions and check-ins.
Do you offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments?
We can provide exercise guidance and check-ins via video call for established patients who can't make it to the clinic due to work commitments or travel.
Professional Lifestyle & Work-Related Injuries
I'm training for a half marathon - can you help prevent injuries while I increase my mileage?
Yes! Many of our Richmond runners train for Melbourne Marathon and other events. We offer running assessments, gait analysis, and injury prevention programs specifically designed for recreational runners increasing their training load.
How quickly can I get back to my training routine after treatment?
This depends on your specific injury, but we understand your active lifestyle is important. We'll create a modified training plan so you can stay active during recovery, and we'll progress you back to full training as quickly and safely as possible.
Do you understand the demands of balancing career and fitness goals?
Completely. Most of our practitioners are active themselves and understand the challenge of maintaining fitness with a demanding career. We'll work with your schedule and lifestyle, not against it.
Activity-Specific Treatment
I cycle to work daily - do you understand cycling-related injuries?
Definitely. Many of our clients are cycling commuters who deal with issues such as knee pain, back stiffness, or neck tension resulting from their riding position. We also partner with Ciclo for professional bike fitting assessments.
I do CrossFit 4-5 times per week - will you tell me to stop training?
Not at all! We understand CrossFit culture and work with many local box members. We'll modify your training rather than stop it completely, and help you train smarter to prevent future injuries.
I play social footy on weekends - can you help with match preparation?
Yes, we treat many Richmond Tigers supporters who play social AFL. We can help with injury prevention, warm-up routines, and getting you match-ready while managing any existing issues.
I'm not a serious athlete - do you still cater to recreational exercisers?
Absolutely. Whether you're a weekend warrior, social sports player, or someone who just wants to stay active and pain-free, we welcome clients of all fitness levels and goals.
Your Treatment & Our Approach
Is physiotherapy only about massage and passive treatments?
Physiotherapy at Evolutio encompasses a wide range of effective treatments. While hands-on techniques like massage, joint mobilisations, and dry needling may be part of your plan, a significant focus will be on active exercise and education. We will equip you with tailored exercises, explain their purpose, and guide you through a progressive program to build strength and function. Our aim is to empower you in your recovery.
Do you use specialised equipment in your clinic?
Our clinic is equipped with modern tools and equipment to support your rehabilitation journey, including VALD testing equipment, kettlebells, squat racks, muscle testing equipment, assault bikes, resistance bands, and other specialised apparatus. We integrate these resources effectively to enhance your recovery outcomes.
Is there any obligation to continue seeing a practitioner?
No, there's no obligation to continue to see a practitioner. If you felt like it wasn't the right fit for you, just let us know and we can rebook you in with another practitioner who might be a better fit. In addition, you don't have to continue coming in for appointments. However, we usually find, depending on the injury, that some injuries do need time and ongoing appointments for you to get back to 100%, so we always recommend following the guidance of your healthcare provider.
Can physiotherapy help prevent future injuries?
Yes, definitely. Our approach extends beyond resolving your current pain. We focus on educating you about proper movement patterns, strengthening techniques, and strategies to reduce your risk of re-injury. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools for long-term health.
I'm not an athlete; is Evolutio still suitable for me?
Absolutely. While we successfully treat athletes, our clinic welcomes individuals from all walks of life. Whether your discomfort stems from daily activities, work-related tasks, or general wear and tear, we are here to help you regain comfort and function.
How do I access the Memberships Page?
Our memberships are only offered to select clients after they have been in to our clinic for a period of time and seen our practitioners over multiple sessions. We want to make sure that we offer this to those who truly fit its design. These memberships allow you access to your personal physiotherapist to see weekly and with whom you can communicate during business hours on WhatsApp, in addition to ongoing care with our sports dietitian and online programming related to your activity of choice, including cycling, running, triathlon or strength and conditioning. As well as access to VIP events and launches. If you're interested in finding out more, please contact us via info@evolutio.com.au
Clinic Culture & Environment
I'm not comfortable in clinical environments - what's your clinic like?
Our Richmond clinic feels more like a cool warehouse space than a sterile medical facility. Think coffee, indie music, reclaimed wood furniture, and friendly practitioners who greet you personally. It's designed to feel welcoming, not clinical.
What makes Evolutio different from other Richmond physio clinics?
We combine evidence-based treatment with a non-clinical atmosphere. You'll find us more like a trendy Richmond cafe than a medical center - but with expert physiotherapy. We focus on building genuine relationships with our clients.
General & Clinic Information
What if I have a question between my sessions?
For general inquiries about your exercises or minor concerns, you can contact your physio by email and they will try their best to get back to you. For anything urgent or requiring a re-assessment, please book a follow-up appointment.
Is parking available at Evolutio?
Yes there are three parks in front of our clinic for clients use. Please be aware that during busy times these may all be taken, so there is also parking on Bromham place and around the clinic. If possible try to come without a car, we also have a green card (that's like a coffee card) it gives you a free session after you come 10 times with clean energy. We also have bike racks etc inside for you.
What is the meaning behind the name "Evolutio"?
The name "Evolutio" reflects our core philosophy of continuous progress and transformation. It signifies your journey from pain and limitation to improved strength, movement, and overall well-being. Plus we just thought it was cool.
Local Richmond Connection
Are you involved in the local Richmond fitness community?
Yes! We partner with local gyms like CrossFit Hawthorn East, The Bones Personal Training, and support the Richmond running and cycling communities. We understand the local fitness scene and culture.
I live in South Yarra/Prahran - is Richmond convenient for me?
Very convenient! We're easily accessible from South Yarra, Prahran, and Toorak via public transport or bike. Many of our clients come from these inner Melbourne suburbs - it's just a short trip to Richmond.
Do you treat clients from outside the Richmond area?
Absolutely. While we're based in Richmond, we welcome clients from across Melbourne. We've treated over 7,000 patients from around Victoria and even internationally. If you're willing to travel for quality care, we're here for you.