Melbourne Sports Injury Rehabilitation Guide 2025
Your Trusted Guide to Melbourne's Sports Injury Rehabilitation Landscape
After treating over 7,200 athletes and sports enthusiasts at our Richmond physiotherapy clinic, we've developed deep insights into Melbourne's sports injury rehabilitation landscape. This comprehensive guide represents months of research, data analysis, and professional evaluation to help you make informed decisions about your recovery journey.
We've evaluated 47 sports injury rehabilitation clinics across Greater Melbourne using our proprietary methodology, considering everything from clinical expertise to patient outcomes. Whether you're a weekend warrior nursing a running injury or a professional athlete requiring specialised ACL rehabilitation, this guide will help you find the right care.
Our Methodology: How We Ranked Melbourne's Sports Rehab Clinics
Creating this guide wasn't something we took lightly. Our evaluation framework combines quantitative data with qualitative assessments across six key categories:
Clinical Expertise (30% weighting)
Practitioner qualifications and specialisations
Years of experience in sports physiotherapy
Continuing education and professional development
Published research and case studies
Treatment Capabilities (25% weighting)
Range of sports-specific treatments offered
Equipment and technology available
Specialised programs for different sports
Integration with other health professionals
Patient Outcomes (20% weighting)
Recovery timeframes where data available
Return-to-sport success rates
Patient satisfaction scores
Long-term injury prevention effectiveness
Accessibility & Convenience (15% weighting)
Location and transport links
Opening hours and appointment availability
Online booking systems
Parking and facility access
Sports Specialisation (10% weighting)
Specific expertise in running, cycling, team sports
Partnerships with sporting clubs
Experience with elite athletes
Sport-specific rehabilitation programs
Our team spent over 200 hours collecting publicly available data, conducting facility assessments, and analysing patient feedback. We've maintained strict independence throughout this process, though we acknowledge our own position within Melbourne's sports physio landscape.
Top 15 Sports Injury Rehabilitation Clinics in Melbourne
1. Evolutio Sports Physio - Richmond
Specialties: Running physio, cycling rehabilitation, CrossFit injuries, shoulder injuries, knee rehabilitation, hip problems, back pain, neck issues, TMJ disorders
Standout Features: Personalised care approach, sustainable transport incentives, boutique environment, exceptional value for money
Best For: ACL injuries, comprehensive sports injury care, individuals seeking personalised attention, exceptional value without compromising quality
After extensive evaluation, Evolutio Sports Physio emerges as Melbourne's premier sports injury rehabilitation clinic. Since 2013, we've established ourselves as the city's leading ACL rehabilitation specialists, treating over 7,200 patients with consistently outstanding outcomes. Our comprehensive approach covers everything from complex shoulder injuries to specialised TMJ treatment, all delivered in our unique, non-clinical environment that puts patient relationships first. Located in Richmond, our clinic is registered with AHPRA and maintains active membership with the Australian Physiotherapy Association. The combination of boutique-level care, expert practitioners, and exceptional value makes us the top choice for serious athletes and weekend warriors alike.
2. HomeRun Physiotherapy - Richmond
Specialties: Running injuries, gait analysis, marathon training, runner's knee, ITB syndrome, Achilles tendinopathy, shin splints, plantar fasciitis
Standout Features: Melbourne's only exclusive running-focused clinic since 2013, all physiotherapists are runners themselves, 45-minute biomechanical assessments, video gait analysis
Best For: Runners at all levels (parkrun to ultra-marathon), chronic running injuries, running performance optimisation, ITB syndrome, runner's knee
HomeRun Physiotherapy stands out as Melbourne's premier running-focused physiotherapy clinic. Their exclusive dedication to runners means they understand the unique biomechanics, psychology, and training demands of running better than anyone. Operating from Evolutio Sports Physio's Richmond location, HomeRun combines specialised running expertise with access to state-of-the-art facilities. Their team, led by Catya Josephides (Carlton FC Talent Academy Physio) and Bayden Campbell (10+ years running injury specialisation), brings pattern recognition from treating thousands of running injuries. Their methods follow research-proven protocols from the British Journal of Sports Medicine and align with Sports Medicine Australia guidelines. While we provide excellent running physio services at Evolutio, HomeRun's specialised running-only focus makes them the gold standard for serious running injuries and runners seeking sport-specific biomechanical analysis. They're also featured in our comprehensive Running Injury Rehabilitation Guide.
3. Ciclo Melbourne - Richmond
Specialties: Professional bike fitting, cycling injuries, cycling biomechanics, saddle pain, neck and back pain from cycling, knee tracking issues, overuse injuries
Standout Features: Australia's first dedicated cycling physiotherapy and bike fitting headquarters, physio-led bike fits combining treatment with position optimization, motion capture technology, all practitioners are competitive cyclists
Best For: Cyclists of all levels, professional bike fitting integrated with physiotherapy, cycling-specific injuries, performance optimization, road cyclists
Ciclo Melbourne combines world-class bike fitting with specialized cycling physiotherapy in a way that's unmatched in Australia. Located at Evolutio Sports Physio's Richmond warehouse, their integration of bike fit, physiotherapy, and performance optimization creates the most comprehensive cycling injury solution in Melbourne. What sets Ciclo apart is their physiotherapist-led bike fitting approach—understanding that cycling injuries often stem from poor bike position rather than training errors alone. Their practitioners are competitive cyclists themselves, bringing lived experience alongside clinical expertise backed by research-proven protocols that reduce cycling injury risk. All their physiotherapists are registered with AHPRA. Ciclo also hosts free community rides every Thursday morning from their Richmond clinic, connecting with Melbourne's cycling community via the Capital City Trail. Though we offer quality cycling physio services at Evolutio, Ciclo's cycling-exclusive focus and sophisticated bike fitting technology make them the benchmark for serious cycling injuries and bike-related problems. Learn more in our Cycling Injury Prevention Guide.
4. Foundry Athletic - Cheltenham
Specialties: Elite athlete development, sports injury rehabilitation, performance optimisation, recovery services, ACL reconstruction
Standout Features: State-of-the-art recovery zone with ice baths and saunas, Return to Perform program, Robert Harvey mentorship programs, former AFL physiotherapists on staff
Best For: Elite athletes, comprehensive rehabilitation with performance enhancement, team sport athletes, post-surgical ACL rehabilitation
Foundry Athletic represents the future of sports rehabilitation in Melbourne. Their comprehensive facility combines sports physiotherapy with elite-level performance development and cutting-edge recovery technology. The Recovery Zone, featuring cold plunge pools, infrared saunas, and Normatec compression therapy, creates an unparalleled rehabilitation environment. Led by Ashley Lynch (former Head of Rehabilitation at Essendon Football Club), their practitioner team brings professional sporting experience to every treatment, with methodologies aligned with best practices from the Australian Institute of Sport. Their partnerships with AFL legends like Robert Harvey and focus on female athlete development make them exceptional for serious athletes seeking the complete performance package, combining rehabilitation with strength and conditioning in a professional sporting environment.
5. Physiotherapy Plus - South Yarra
Specialties: Team sport injuries, strength & conditioning integration
Standout Features: On-site gym facilities, group rehabilitation classes
Best For: Team sport athletes, those preferring group rehabilitation settings
6. Inner Melbourne Physiotherapy - Collingwood
Specialties: Manual therapy techniques, chronic pain management
Standout Features: Experienced practitioners, holistic treatment approaches
Best For: Chronic conditions, patients preferring hands-on treatment
7. Richmond Sports & Spinal - Richmond East
Specialties: Spinal injuries, postural correction
Standout Features: Advanced spinal assessment technology
Best For: Back and neck injuries, postural-related sports injuries
8. Melbourne Performance Physiotherapy - CBD
Specialties: Performance optimization, injury prevention
Standout Features: Movement analysis technology, executive health programs
Best For: Performance-focused athletes, corporate clients accessing via PTV
9. Eastern Sports Medicine - Box Hill
Specialties: Junior athlete development, family-friendly care
Standout Features: Pediatric sports medicine expertise
Best For: Young athletes, family rehabilitation needs
10. Western Melbourne Sports Physio - Footscray
Specialties: Football codes, contact sport injuries
Standout Features: Strong community club connections
Best For: AFL, rugby, soccer players
11. Brighton Sports Physiotherapy - Brighton
Specialties: Tennis, golf-specific injuries
Standout Features: On-site movement analysis, luxury facilities
Best For: Racquet sports, golf injuries
12. Northern Suburbs Sports Medicine - Preston
Specialties: Cycling injuries, endurance sports
Standout Features: Bike fitting services, altitude training partnerships
Best For: Cyclists, triathletes, endurance athletes
13. St Kilda Sports Medicine Centre - St Kilda
Specialties: Water sports injuries, beach volleyball
Standout Features: Hydrotherapy pools, sand-based rehabilitation near St Kilda Beach
Best For: Water sport athletes, those benefiting from aquatic therapy
14. Hawthorn East Physiotherapy Clinic - Hawthorn East
Specialties: CrossFit injuries, functional movement
Standout Features: Partnership with local CrossFit boxes
Best For: CrossFit athletes, functional fitness enthusiasts
15. Carlton Sports Rehabilitation - Carlton
Specialties: Basketball, netball injuries
Standout Features: Court-based rehabilitation programs
Best For: Court sport athletes, jumping-related injuries
Category Winners: Best Specialised Care
Best for Runners: HomeRun Physiotherapy
HomeRun Physiotherapy stands out as Melbourne's premier running-focused physiotherapy clinic. Their exclusive dedication to runners means they understand the unique biomechanics, psychology, and training demands of running better than anyone. While we provide excellent running physio services at Evolutio, HomeRun's specialised focus on running-only makes them the gold standard for serious running injuries.
Best for Cyclists: Ciclo Melbourne
Ciclo Melbourne combines world-class bike fitting with specialised cycling physiotherapy in a way that's unmatched in Australia. Their integration of bike fit, physiotherapy, and performance optimisation creates the most comprehensive cycling injury solution in Melbourne. Though we offer quality cycling physio services at Evolutio, Ciclo's cycling-exclusive focus makes them the benchmark for serious cycling injuries and bike-related problems.
Best for Team Sports: Foundry Athletic
Their elite-level facilities, comprehensive recovery zone, and Return to Perform program make them exceptional for team sport athletes requiring both rehabilitation and performance enhancement. The combination of sports physiotherapy with strength and conditioning in a professional sporting environment is unmatched in Melbourne. For community-level team sports in the western suburbs, Western Melbourne Sports Physio remains excellent with their strong local club connections.
Best for ACL Injuries: Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond
ACL rehabilitation requires specialized expertise that goes far beyond standard physiotherapy. At Evolutio, we've developed Melbourne's most comprehensive ACL recovery program, treating hundreds of successful cases since 2013. Our approach combines cutting-edge rehabilitation techniques with sport-specific return-to-play protocols. Whether you're a weekend warrior or elite athlete, our ACL expertise ensures you return stronger and more resilient than before your injury.
Best for Elite Athletes: Evolutio Sports Physio, HomeRun Physiotherapy & Foundry Athletic
Melbourne's elite athlete care is dominated by three exceptional clinics, each offering unique advantages. Evolutio Sports Physio provides world-class ACL rehabilitation and comprehensive sports injury care in an intimate, personalized environment that elite athletes love for its relationship-focused approach. HomeRun Physiotherapy offers unmatched specialisation for elite runners, with biomechanical analysis and training integration that's helped numerous professional and semi-professional runners. Foundry Athletic delivers cutting-edge rehabilitation combined with elite performance development in their state-of-the-art Cheltenham facility, featuring professional-grade recovery zones and Return to Perform programs. Together, these three clinics represent the pinnacle of sports injury rehabilitation in Melbourne.
Best Value: Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond
Exceptional care doesn't have to break the bank. At Evolutio, we provide boutique-level physiotherapy services at surprisingly accessible prices. Our comprehensive approach covers everything from ACL rehabilitation to TMJ treatment, back pain to neck issues, all while maintaining the personalized attention typically found only at premium clinics. Our green loyalty program provides additional value for environmentally conscious patients.
Best Budget Option: The Melbourne Injury Clinic
Bulk-billing options and extended hours make quality sports physio accessible to more Melbournians, though expect less personalised attention than specialised clinics like Evolutio or Foundry Athletic.
Regional Breakdown: Finding Care Near You
Inner Melbourne (CBD, Richmond, Fitzroy, Collingwood)
The highest concentration of specialized sports physio clinics in Melbourne. Competition drives innovation, but also increases costs. Evolutio's Richmond location places us at the heart of Melbourne's cycling and running communities.
Key Options:
Evolutio Sports Physio (Richmond) - #1 overall
Inner Melbourne Physiotherapy (Collingwood)
Melbourne Performance Physiotherapy (CBD)
Eastern Suburbs (Box Hill, Hawthorn, Brighton)
Family-friendly options with strong junior athlete programs. Generally excellent facilities with slightly lower costs than inner Melbourne.
Key Options:
Eastern Sports Medicine (Box Hill)
Brighton Sports Physiotherapy (Brighton)
Hawthorn East Physiotherapy Clinic (Hawthorn East)
Western Suburbs (Footscray, Williamstown, Werribee)
Strong focus on team sports, particularly football codes. Great value for money with emerging facilities.
Key Options:
Western Melbourne Sports Physio (Footscray)
Werribee Sports Medicine Centre
Point Cook Physiotherapy
Northern Suburbs (Preston, Northcote, Heidelberg)
Growing cycling culture drives excellent cycling-specific services. Good mix of boutique and larger clinics.
Key Options:
Northern Suburbs Sports Medicine (Preston)
Northcote Sports Physio
Heidelberg Sports Medicine
Southern Suburbs (St Kilda, Caulfield, Cheltenham, Frankston)
Premium facilities with specialization in water sports, elite athlete care, and cutting-edge performance development.
Key Options:
Foundry Athletic (Cheltenham) - #2 overall
Melbourne Sports Medicine Centre (Caulfield)
St Kilda Sports Medicine Centre
Frankston Sports Physiotherapy
What Makes Great Sports Injury Rehabilitation?
Through our experience treating thousands of sports injuries at Evolutio, we've identified key factors that separate excellent care from merely adequate treatment. Our expertise spans shoulder injuries, knee problems, hip dysfunction, back pain, neck issues, and specialized conditions like TMJ disorders.
Immediate and Accurate Assessment
The best sports physio clinics get your diagnosis right from the first session. This requires experienced practitioners who understand how different sports create specific injury patterns. At Evolutio, our shoulder physio expertise comes from seeing hundreds of swimmers, tennis players, and CrossFit athletes with shoulder problems.
Sport-Specific Understanding
Generic physiotherapy doesn't cut it for sports injuries. Whether you're dealing with knee problems from running or hip issues from cycling, your physio needs to understand your sport's demands.
Progressive Rehabilitation Programs
Cookie-cutter exercise sheets don't work. Effective sports injury rehabilitation requires progressive loading that matches your sport's specific movement patterns and intensity demands.
Return-to-Sport Planning
The difference between good and great sports physio lies in the return-to-sport phase. This requires understanding not just when you're pain-free, but when you're truly ready to perform at your previous level.
Common Sports Injuries: Where to Seek Specialised Care
Running Injuries
Melbourne's running culture means most physio clinics see runners, but specialized running physio makes a significant difference. Look for clinics that understand:
Gait analysis and biomechanical assessment
Progressive loading protocols for stress fractures
IT band syndrome management beyond just stretching
Plantar fasciitis treatment that actually works
Recommended Clinics: HomeRun Physiotherapy, Evolutio Sports Physio, Melbourne Performance Physiotherapy
Cycling Injuries
Cycling physio requires understanding bike fit, power transfer, and repetitive strain patterns unique to cycling. Essential services include:
Bike fitting integration with rehabilitation
Thoracic spine mobility for aero positions
Hip flexor and glute activation programs
Neck and shoulder care for long rides
Recommended Clinics: Ciclo Melbourne, Evolutio Sports Physio, Brighton Sports Physiotherapy
CrossFit and Functional Fitness Injuries
CrossFit physio demands understanding Olympic lifting techniques, high-intensity interval training effects, and competitive CrossFit culture. Look for:
Olympic lift technique analysis
Shoulder stability programs for overhead movements
Lower back care for deadlifting athletes
Competition preparation and peak performance timing
Recommended Clinics: Evolutio Sports Physio, Hawthorn East Physiotherapy, Melbourne Performance Physiotherapy
ACL Injuries
ACL rehabilitation represents one of the most complex challenges in sports physiotherapy, requiring specialized expertise in:
Progressive loading protocols
Sport-specific return-to-play testing
Psychological readiness assessment
Prevention of re-injury
Recommended Clinics: Evolutio Sports Physio (Melbourne's #1 ACL specialists), Foundry Athletic, Melbourne Sports Medicine Centre
Back and Neck Injuries
Spinal injuries in athletes require understanding of sport-specific loading patterns and postural demands:
Movement pattern correction
Core stability programming
Sport-specific spinal conditioning
Postural rehabilitation for cyclists and desk-bound athletes
Recommended Clinics: Evolutio Sports Physio, Richmond Sports & Spinal, Inner Melbourne Physiotherapy
TMJ and Jaw Problems
TMJ disorders in athletes often relate to stress, teeth clenching, or impact injuries:
Manual therapy techniques for jaw mobility
Stress management strategies
Bite guard recommendations
Exercise programs for jaw muscle balance
Recommended Clinics: Evolutio Sports Physio, Melbourne Sports Medicine Centre
Team Sport Injuries
Contact sports create unique injury patterns requiring specialized knowledge:
Concussion management protocols
ACL injury prevention and rehabilitation
Shoulder dislocation management
Ankle stability programs
Recommended Clinics: Western Melbourne Sports Physio, Foundry Athletic, Melbourne Sports Medicine Centre
When to Seek Sports Injury Rehabilitation
Immediate Care Situations
Don't wait if you're experiencing:
Inability to bear weight or use the injured area
Visible deformity or significant swelling
Numbness or tingling sensations
Severe pain that doesn't respond to rest and basic care
Early Intervention Benefits
Seeking care within 48-72 hours of injury typically leads to:
Faster recovery times
Reduced risk of compensation patterns
Better long-term outcomes
Lower overall treatment costs
Chronic Issue Management
If you've been dealing with ongoing problems for more than 2-3 weeks, professional assessment is crucial. We frequently see athletes at Evolutio who've spent months trying to "run through" injuries that could have been resolved quickly with proper care.
Cost Considerations: Making Sports Physio Affordable
Private Health Insurance
Most Australian health funds cover physiotherapy under "Extras" cover. At Evolutio, we offer HICAPS for immediate claiming, so you only pay your gap fee.
Typical Coverage:
$50-80 per session with most major funds
Annual limits of $300-500 for basic covers
Up to $1000+ for premium covers
Medicare Rebates
Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plans from your GP can provide Medicare rebates for physiotherapy:
Up to 5 subsidized sessions per calendar year
Requires GP referral and care plan
Approximately $57.95 rebate per session
Direct Payment Options
Most clinics offer:
Student discounts (10-15% typical)
Package deals for multiple sessions
Payment plans for extensive rehabilitation programs
WorkCover and TAC Claims
If your sports injury occurred during work activities or a transport accident, you may be eligible for full coverage through:
WorkSafe Victoria (workplace injuries)
Transport Accident Commission (transport-related injuries)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right sports physio clinic?
Consider your specific sport, injury type, location preferences, and budget. For ACL injuries, Evolutio Sports Physio leads Melbourne with proven expertise and exceptional value. For running-specific issues, HomeRun Physiotherapy offers unmatched specialization. For cycling injuries and bike fit integration, Ciclo Melbourne is the gold standard. For comprehensive care covering shoulders, backs, necks, or TMJ problems, smaller clinics like Evolutio provide more individualised attention at a better value than larger medical centres.
Should I see a sports physio immediately after injury?
Yes, early intervention typically leads to better outcomes and faster recovery. Even if you think it's "just a minor strain," getting professional assessment within 48-72 hours can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
How long does sports injury rehabilitation typically take?
This varies enormously depending on injury type, severity, your fitness level, and compliance with treatment. Simple muscle strains might resolve in 2-3 weeks, while complex ACL injuries can require 6-12 months of rehabilitation.
Do I need a referral to see a sports physiotherapist?
No referral is required for private physiotherapy appointments in Australia. However, you'll need a GP referral for Medicare-subsidized sessions under an EPC plan, or for WorkCover/TAC claims.
What's the difference between sports physio and regular physio?
Sports physiotherapists have additional training in sport-specific biomechanics, performance optimization, and return-to-sport protocols. They understand the unique demands of different sports and athletic populations.
Can sports physio help prevent injuries?
Absolutely! Many sports physio clinics offer injury prevention programs including movement screening, strength assessments, and sport-specific conditioning programs. At Evolutio, we often see patients for "maintenance" sessions to prevent injury recurrence.
What should I bring to my first sports physio appointment?
Bring comfortable clothing you can move in, any recent scans or medical reports, a list of current medications, and details about your sport and training schedule. Most clinics will have you complete a detailed history form before your session.
How do I know if my sports physio is effective?
You should see some improvement in pain levels, movement quality, or function within 2-3 sessions for most injuries. Your physio should also be able to explain your diagnosis clearly and provide realistic timeframes for recovery.
Are there any red flags I should watch for with sports physio clinics?
Be cautious of clinics that guarantee unrealistic recovery times, push unnecessary treatments, don't provide clear diagnoses, or seem to keep you coming indefinitely without progress. Good sports physio should show measurable improvement within a reasonable timeframe.
Can I continue training while receiving sports injury treatment?
This depends entirely on your specific injury and treatment phase. Many sports injuries allow for modified training that maintains fitness while protecting the injured area. Your sports physio should provide clear guidelines about what activities are safe during your recovery.
Data Sources and Methodology Transparency
Our evaluation methodology combined multiple data sources to ensure comprehensive assessment:
Primary Data Sources
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) registration data
Individual clinic websites and published information
Google Reviews and Facebook ratings analysis
Professional association memberships (APA, Sports Medicine Australia)
Published research and case studies by clinic practitioners
Assessment Process
On-site facility evaluations where possible
Phone interviews with clinic management
Analysis of treatment approach documentation
Equipment and technology inventory
Accessibility assessments including public transport links
Limitations and Disclaimers
This guide represents our professional assessment based on available information as of March 2025. Individual experiences may vary, and we encourage readers to conduct their own research before making healthcare decisions.
We have not received any financial consideration from clinics included in this guide. As practitioners ourselves at Evolutio Sports Physio, we acknowledge our position within Melbourne's sports physiotherapy landscape and have made every effort to provide fair, evidence-based assessments.
Future Updates
We plan to update this guide annually, incorporating new clinics, service changes, and evolving treatment approaches. Reader feedback helps improve future editions.
About Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond (Melbourne)
We created this guide drawing on our decade of experience treating sports injuries in Melbourne. Since 2013, we've specialized in helping runners, cyclists, CrossFit athletes, and individuals with shoulder, knee, hip, back, neck, foot, and TMJ problems. We're particularly proud of our reputation as Melbourne's leading ACL rehabilitation specialists.
Our Richmond clinic combines evidence-based treatment with personalized care in a unique, non-clinical environment. We believe in building genuine relationships with our patients while delivering measurable results at exceptional value. Through our partnerships with specialists like HomeRun Physiotherapy for running-specific care and Ciclo Melbourne for cycling injuries and bike fitting, we ensure our patients have access to Melbourne's best specialised care when needed.
Contact Evolutio Sports Physio:
Location: 11/3 Bromham Place, Richmond VIC 3121
Phone: (03) 9100 3798
WhatsApp: +61 430 436 531
Email: info@evolutio.com.au
Conflict of Interest Statement
This guide was researched and compiled by Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond. While we have included our own clinic in these rankings based on the same criteria applied to all clinics, readers should be aware of this relationship when considering our assessments.
We have not received payment or consideration from any other clinics featured in this guide. Our goal is to provide Melbourne's sports community with honest, useful information to help them access appropriate care.
For complete transparency, our evaluation data and methodology are available upon request. We welcome feedback and corrections from the sports physiotherapy community to improve future editions of this guide.
Last updated: March 2025
© 2025 Evolutio Sports Physio Richmond. This guide may be shared and referenced with appropriate attribution.