Understanding and Managing Pain with Physiotherapy

Pain is more than just a physical sensation — it’s a complex experience that can influence how you move, think, and participate in everyday life. Whether it’s short-term (acute) or long-lasting (chronic), physiotherapy pain management supports may help manage pain effectively and regain control over your wellbeing.

Acute vs. Chronic Pain

Acute pain occurs suddenly, often following an injury, surgery, or strain. It’s your body’s way of alerting you that something needs attention, and it typically settles as healing takes place. Physiotherapy plays an important role during this stage by helping to:

• Reduce inflammation and swelling

• Restore safe movement and flexibility

• Prevent stiffness or muscle weakness

• Guide a gradual and supported return to activity

Chronic pain, on the other hand, can persist for months or even years and may not always have a clear cause. It can stem from conditions such as arthritis, nerve-related pain, or old injuries that haven’t fully healed. In these cases, physiotherapists work alongside you to:

• Strengthen muscles that support and protect affected areas

• Improve mobility and endurance

• Manage flare-ups and identify triggers

• Provide education on pacing, posture, and activity modification

The Pain Cycle: How Pain Affects the Mind and Body

Pain doesn’t only affect the body — it also impacts mental and emotional health. Persistent pain can lead to frustration, anxiety, and fear of movement. Over time, this may create what’s known as the pain-anxiety cycle, where pain leads to avoidance of activity, resulting in weaker muscles, reduced mobility, and worsening pain.

Physiotherapists play a key role in helping to break this cycle by:

• Educating you about how pain works and how movement can be safe

• Rebuilding confidence through gradual, supported activity

• Using movement-based therapy to release tension and improve function

• Encouraging self-management strategies to prevent future setbacks

Understanding that movement is medicine is an important step in regaining control. The right exercises, performed at the right pace, can help the body adapt and the mind feel more capable.

Physiotherapy, Pain Management and the NDIS

Physiotherapy is an essential part of many NDIS participants’ support plans, particularly for those aiming to build independence and improve their capacity for daily living.

Under the NDIS, physiotherapy is typically funded through: Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living or Improved Health and Wellbeing.

These supports can help participants to:

• Improve movement, mobility, and physical endurance

• Reduce pain and fatigue that limit daily activities

• Develop exercise programs to support long-term health

• Stay active and safe in the home and community

At All Round Therapy Services, our physiotherapists work closely with participants, support coordinators, and families to ensure each program is goal-oriented and tailored to individual needs. Whether you’re working towards greater independence, reducing pain, or regaining confidence, physiotherapy can be a key part of your NDIS journey.

Reclaiming Comfort, Confidence, and Control

Living with pain doesn’t have to mean living with limits. With early and ongoing physiotherapy, you may be able to reduce discomfort, improve daily function, and boost your overall quality of life.

If you’re experiencing ongoing pain — whether from an injury, surgery, or long-term condition — a physiotherapy assessment can help you:

• Understand the underlying cause of your pain

• Learn practical ways to manage symptoms

• Develop tailored exercise and movement strategies

• Rebuild strength, confidence, and independence

Our physiotherapists support NDIS participants and community clients across Perth to move better, feel stronger, and live more comfortably.

With the right support, you can get back to doing the things you love — one step, one stretch, and one day at a time.