NDIS
NDIS physiotherapy vs exercise physiology vs occupational therapy
In plain language
Physiotherapists, exercise physiologists and occupational therapists all support NDIS participants — but they target different goals. Here's how to choose.
- Physiotherapy: pain, mobility, gait, spasticity, post-operative rehabilitation.
- Exercise physiology: chronic-condition management, strength, cardiovascular fitness.
- Occupational therapy: daily activities, environment, assistive technology, home modifications.
- Funded from Improved Daily Living or Improved Health & Wellbeing depending on your plan.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapists assess and treat movement problems — pain, stiffness, weakness, balance, spasticity, gait, and recovery after surgery or injury. They often lead early rehabilitation and prescribe individual exercise programs.
Exercise physiology
Accredited exercise physiologists (AEPs) specialise in exercise for chronic conditions — cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, mental health conditions, and long-term neurological and musculoskeletal conditions. Group EP is well-suited to maintenance and progression once acute rehabilitation is complete.
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapists focus on the activities of daily life — dressing, showering, cooking, work and school — and the environment and equipment that enable them. OTs lead Functional Capacity Assessments, Assistive Technology assessments and home modifications.
How to choose
Many participants benefit from a combination. A physiotherapist and OT often work together after a stroke or spinal injury; a physiotherapist may hand over to an EP once acute rehabilitation goals are achieved.
Next steps
References
- NDIS — Types of supports — NDIS
- ESSA — What is an AEP? — Exercise & Sports Science Australia