If you’ve been putting off physiotherapy because getting to a clinic feels like too much effort, you’re not alone. Whether it’s mobility challenges, transport issues, or just the hassle of fitting appointments around your schedule, many Melbournians are discovering that mobile physiotherapy offers a practical solution.
But what actually happens when a physiotherapist comes to your home? If you’ve never had a home visit before, it’s natural to have questions. Let’s walk through what you can expect from your first mobile physio appointment in Melbourne.
What Is Mobile Physiotherapy?
Mobile physiotherapy brings qualified physiotherapists directly to your door. Instead of travelling to a clinic, your physio comes to you – whether that’s your home, aged care facility, or even your workplace.
It’s the same professional treatment you’d receive in a clinic, just delivered in the comfort of your own space. For many people, particularly those with disabilities, chronic conditions, or mobility limitations, this makes physiotherapy not just more convenient, but actually accessible.
Before Your First Appointment
Your mobile physiotherapist will typically call you a day or two before your first visit to confirm the appointment time and address any questions. This is a good opportunity to mention:
- Any specific concerns or areas of pain you’d like them to focus on
- Recent surgeries, injuries, or medical diagnoses
- Mobility aids you currently use
- Any access considerations for your home
You don’t need to do much to prepare your space. Just ensure there’s a clear area where you can move comfortably – this might be your living room, bedroom, or wherever you feel most at ease. If you have recent medical reports, scan results, or a referral from your GP, having these handy can be helpful.
What Happens During the First Visit
Initial Assessment (20-30 minutes)
Your first appointment is all about understanding you and your needs. Your physiotherapist will start by asking questions about:
- Your current symptoms and how long you’ve had them
- Your medical history and any existing conditions
- What activities are challenging or painful
- Your goals – what would you like to achieve through physiotherapy?
This conversation is crucial. Be honest about your pain levels, limitations, and concerns. There’s no judgment here – your physio needs the full picture to help you effectively.
Physical Examination
Next comes the physical assessment. Depending on your condition, this might involve:
- Observing how you move and walk
- Testing your range of motion in affected joints
- Checking your strength, balance, and coordination
- Assessing your posture and flexibility
- Identifying areas of pain, stiffness, or weakness
Your physiotherapist will explain what they’re doing as they go and will always ask your permission before any physical examination. Everything is done at your pace, and you can stop at any time if you’re uncomfortable.
Treatment and Exercise Planning
If appropriate, your physio may begin some initial treatment during this first visit. Depending on your needs, this could include:
- Pain management techniques to help you feel more comfortable
- Tailored exercise programs designed for your current ability level
- Guidance on mobility improvements and moving safely
- Falls prevention strategies if balance is a concern
- Education about your condition and how to manage symptoms
- Advice on posture, movement, or activity modification
- Discussion of assistive technology that might help you at home
If you’re preparing for surgery or recovering from a procedure, your physio will discuss pre- and post-operative care strategies specific to your situation.
Don’t expect miracles after one session – physiotherapy is typically a process. But many people do feel some immediate benefit, even if it’s just the relief of understanding what’s going on with their body.
What Equipment Do Mobile Physiotherapists Bring?
One common concern is whether a mobile physiotherapist has the right equipment. The good news is that modern mobile physios come well-equipped with portable gear including:
- Treatment table or mat
- Resistance bands and exercise equipment
- Measurement tools for range of motion and strength
- Manual therapy tools
- Educational resources and exercise guides
For more specialised equipment needs – like specific walking aids or assistive devices – your physio can assess what’s needed and arrange these separately.
How Long Does a Home Visit Take?
Your first appointment typically runs 45-60 minutes. This is longer than follow-up sessions because there’s more to cover in that initial assessment.
Subsequent appointments are usually 30-45 minutes, depending on your treatment plan and needs.
What Should You Wear?
Dress comfortably in clothing that allows your physio to see and access the area they’re treating. For example:
- Lower back or hip issues: loose shorts or tracksuit pants
- Shoulder or neck problems: a singlet or t-shirt
- Knee concerns: shorts or clothing that can be rolled up easily
If you’re unsure, your physio will let you know when they call before your appointment. The key is being comfortable and able to move freely.
Who Benefits Most from Mobile Physiotherapy?
While anyone can use mobile physio services, they’re particularly valuable for:
- NDIS participants who have physiotherapy included in their support plans, particularly those working on capacity-building goals
- Aged care patients who find travel difficult or tiring and may benefit from falls prevention programs
- Post-surgery patients recovering from hip replacements, knee replacements, or other procedures who need pre- and post-operative care
- People with chronic conditions like multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, or stroke recovery who need ongoing pain management and mobility support
- Anyone with mobility limitations that make clinic visits challenging
- Carers and support workers who can benefit from manual handling training to safely assist their clients
Mobile physiotherapy also works well for busy professionals who struggle to fit clinic appointments into their work schedule, or parents who can’t easily leave home.
What Happens After Your First Visit?
Before your physiotherapist leaves, they’ll discuss:
- Their findings and assessment
- A proposed treatment plan and how many sessions you might need
- Exercise programs or activities to practice between appointments
- Whether any assistive technology could help you move more safely and independently
- When they’ll schedule your next visit
You’ll usually receive written exercise instructions or a program to follow at home. Consistency between appointments is key to getting the best results.
If you’re an NDIS participant or receiving My Aged Care support, your physio can also provide detailed reports for your support coordinators, care managers, or healthcare team. These reports document your progress and help justify ongoing therapy support in your plan.
Common Questions About Mobile Physio in Melbourne
Is it more expensive than clinic physiotherapy?
Not necessarily. Mobile physiotherapy services are competitively priced, and if you’re an NDIS participant or have a My Aged Care package, physiotherapy services can be covered under your plan. Private patients can also access mobile physio services with transparent pricing discussed upfront.
Do I need a referral?
You don’t need a GP referral to see a physiotherapist in Australia. However, having one can be helpful as it gives your physio useful medical background and context about your condition.
What areas of Melbourne do mobile physios cover?
Coverage varies by provider, but many mobile physiotherapy services cover extensive areas across Melbourne’s suburbs. It’s worth asking about travel fees if you’re concerned about location.
Can I have the same physiotherapist each time?
Yes, most mobile physio services aim to provide continuity of care with the same physiotherapist attending your regular appointments. This helps build a therapeutic relationship and ensures consistent treatment.
Making the Most of Your Mobile Physio Experience
To get the best results from your home physiotherapy:
- Be consistent with your appointments and home exercises
- Communicate openly about what’s working and what isn’t
- Set realistic goals with your physiotherapist
- Stay patient – improvement takes time
- Ask questions whenever something isn’t clear
Ready to Book Your First Mobile Physio Appointment?
If you’re in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs and dealing with pain, injury, or mobility challenges, mobile physiotherapy could be the solution you’ve been looking for. Whether you need help with falls prevention, pain management, recovering from surgery, or building your independence through capacity-building programs, professional physio care is more accessible than you might think.
At YouGo Physio, we specialise in bringing expert physiotherapy services directly to your door. Our experienced mobile physiotherapists work throughout Melbourne’s south-east, supporting NDIS participants and aged care patients with comprehensive services including:
- Tailored exercise programs for strength and mobility
- Pre- and post-operative care for surgical recovery
- Falls prevention strategies to keep you safe at home
- Pain management techniques for chronic conditions
- Manual handling training for carers and support workers
- Assistive technology assessments and recommendations
- Detailed reports for your care team and funding providers
Don’t let getting to a clinic be the thing that stops you from getting the care you need. Contact YouGo Physio today to book your first home visit and take the first step toward feeling better – all without leaving your home.
