Confused About Who You Should See? You’re Not Alone.
- Move Right EP
- Aug 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 8
When you’re in pain or trying to get your body back on track, you’ll hear it all: “Go see a physio.” “Get a personal trainer.” “Book with an EP.”
Here’s the thing — each professional has a specific role. Knowing the difference can save you time, money, and frustration. Let’s break down who you should see so you can choose with confidence.
🔬 Physiotherapist (Physio)
What They Do:
Diagnose acute injuries.
Provide manual therapy (e.g., dry needling, massage, joint mobilisations).
Manage inflammation and swelling post-injury or post-op.
When to See Them:
You’ve just had a fall, tear, sprain, or surgery.
You’re in the early, inflamed stage of an injury.
You need a short burst of hands-on treatment to kickstart healing.
Limitation:
Physiotherapists often provide short-term care. Many clients “plateau” here without progressing to strength, stability, and long-term movement.
🧠 Exercise Physiologist (That’s Us – Move Right EP)
What We Do:
Assess your full-body movement patterns.
Prescribe tailored rehab programs to treat pain and dysfunction.
Help manage chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, back pain, and joint instability.
Rebuild strength, restore function, and reduce injury risk over time.
When to See Us:
You’ve had recurring injuries or pain that won’t go away.
You’re recovering from an injury but don’t know how to return to full activity safely.
You need NDIS, Medicare, WorkCover, or DVA support.
You want more than symptom relief — you want results.
We don’t just treat symptoms — we coach you through full recovery.
💪 Personal Trainer (PT)
What They Do:
Deliver general fitness programs.
Help with weight loss, muscle building, or sports conditioning.
Guide training in a gym setting.
When to See Them:
You’re pain-free and want fitness accountability.
You have a base level of strength and movement confidence.
You’re working toward a performance or aesthetic goal.
Limitation:
Personal trainers are not qualified to assess or manage injuries or chronic health conditions.
🧭 Still Not Sure? Use This Rule of Thumb:
Situation | Who to See |
You’ve just been injured | Physio |
You’re stuck in pain or flare-ups | Exercise Physiologist |
You want to build fitness or train harder | Personal Trainer |
💡 Why This Matters
Many clients bounce between these professions without a clear direction. At Move Right EP, we often help clients after they’ve tried everything else. But we wish they’d come to us sooner.
We assess the whole picture — not just where it hurts. Then we design a path forward that’s backed by research, real movement, and real results.
And here’s what makes us different: At Move Right EP, our university-qualified Exercise Physiologists deliver both Exercise Physiology and Personal Training sessions. This means you get clinical insight and performance coaching in one. Whether you're rehabbing or just want to train smarter, we’re the bridge between rehab and results.
👟 Take the First Step
Want help figuring out where to start? We offer exercise physiology consultations that assess your needs and give you a clear plan forward. This may mean staying with us or referring you to the right provider.
Understanding Your Body's Needs
Recognizing what your body needs is crucial. Each professional plays a unique role in your recovery or fitness journey. Understanding these roles can empower you to make informed decisions.
The Importance of Tailored Programs
Tailored programs are essential for effective recovery. A one-size-fits-all approach often leads to frustration and slow progress. At Move Right EP, we focus on creating individualized plans that cater to your specific needs and goals.
Building a Support Network
Having a support network is vital. Whether it’s a physiotherapist, exercise physiologist, or personal trainer, each professional can contribute to your overall well-being. Building relationships with these experts can enhance your recovery and fitness journey.
The Path to Long-Term Health
Long-term health requires a comprehensive approach. It’s not just about treating symptoms; it’s about understanding the root causes of your issues. This holistic view can lead to sustainable results and improved quality of life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing who to see when you're in pain or seeking to improve your fitness can make a significant difference. Each professional has a unique role, and understanding these roles will help you choose the right path. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Your health journey is important, and the right support can lead to lasting results.
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