Virtual (Telehealth) Physiotherapy: Expert Care from Anywhere
Can't make it to the clinic for a physiotherapy session? No problem. At Shape Physio, we offer virtual physiotherapy consultations for patients who need expert guidance but prefer the convenience of remote care.
Virtual physiotherapy (also called telehealth) allows you to receive professional assessment, treatment planning, and ongoing support from the comfort of your own home.
Is Virtual Physiotherapy Effective?
Yes, but for the right conditions.
Research shows that telehealth is highly effective for managing musculoskeletal conditions, particularly osteoarthritis and chronic joint pain. It’s also indicated for rehabilitation following joint replacement surgery and recovery from various injuries. Studies have also found positive outcomes for managing spinal pain and supporting post-surgical rehabilitation.
Telehealth works best when the focus of treatment includes:
Education about your condition and how to manage it.
Prescription of therapeutic exercises tailored to your needs.
Movement assessment and form correction.
Follow-up sessions to monitor progress and adjust your program.
Self-management strategies for long-term success.
That said, virtual physiotherapy may be less suitable for conditions that require hands-on manual therapy or specific equipment-based treatments.
What Conditions Can Be Treated Virtually?
Virtual consultations are ideal for:
Runners: Virtual physiotherapy can be useful if you're training for a race, dealing with a running injury, or want to improve your performance. These online sessions allow us to assess your movement patterns, identify weaknesses, and identify your loading habits. From there, we can design a strength and conditioning program to keep you running strong and make any necessary adjustments to your current running plan.
Musculoskeletal injuries and pain: Shoulder pain, knee pain, hip issues, lower back pain, neck pain, and other musculoskeletal conditions can be effectively managed through virtual care. This is especially true when the focus is on exercise prescription, movement retraining, and self-management.
Post-injury or post-surgical rehabilitation: If you've had surgery or an injury and need guidance on safe return to activity, virtual sessions provide expert oversight as you progress through your recovery.
Chronic pain management: Long-term pain conditions often benefit from education, exercise, and ongoing support. All these treatment modalities can be delivered effectively through telehealth.
Follow-up care: If you've seen us in person previously and need ongoing check-ins, exercise progressions, or troubleshooting, virtual appointments are a convenient way to stay on track without the commute.
Note: Virtual consultations are not suitable for conditions requiring hands-on manual therapy, such as vestibular dysfunction or TMJ disorders, which are best assessed and treated in person.
How Do Virtual Physiotherapy Sessions Work?
Virtual physiotherapy sessions are 40 minutes long and conducted via video call.
First appointment: Your initial session includes a comprehensive assessment. We'll discuss your history, current symptoms, and goals. We’ll assess your movement patterns (you'll be guided through specific movements so we can evaluate your form), identify contributing factors, and create a personalised treatment plan.
Follow-up appointments: Subsequent visits focus on monitoring your progress, adjusting your exercise program as needed, troubleshooting any issues, and ensuring you're on track to meet your goals.
You'll receive a summary of your session along with your personalised exercise program, which you can access anytime.
Who Is Virtual Physiotherapy Best For?
Virtual consultations are ideal if you:
Live outside Melbourne and can't access the clinic in person.
Have a busy schedule and prefer the flexibility of remote appointments.
Are unable to leave your home due to mobility issues, caregiving responsibilities, or other constraints.
Want expert guidance but don't require hands-on treatment.
Need follow-up care and want to save time on travel.
What Do You Need for a Virtual Session?
To make the most of your virtual appointment, you'll need:
A device with a camera: A computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
Reliable internet connection: Strong enough for video calling.
Working audio: Make sure your microphone and speakers (or headphones) are functioning.
Adequate space: Enough room to move around so I can assess your movements during the session.
Comfortable clothing: Wear something you can move in easily (athletic wear is ideal).
Before your first session, you’ll receive a secure link to join the video call. It's simple, just click the link at your appointment time, and we'll get started.
Ready to Book a Telehealth Appointment?
Virtual consultations are available for runners, musculoskeletal injuries, and rehabilitation support. If you're not sure whether telehealth is right for your condition, feel free to reach out, and we can discuss your needs.