Understanding Australia’s Most Common Physiotherapy Conditions

Understanding Australia’s Most Common Physiotherapy Conditions: What We See Every Day

As physiotherapists here at Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic, we’re often asked about the types of conditions we treat most frequently. Understanding these patterns not only helps us stay at the forefront of evidence-based practice but also reassures our patients that they’re not alone in their health journey.

The Reality of Musculoskeletal Health in Australia

Over the past five years, musculoskeletal conditions have consistently been the most common reason Australians seek physiotherapy treatment, with back pain leading the charge as the most prevalent condition we encounter in our clinic.

Musculoskeletal presentations account for approximately 37% of all physiotherapy consultations nationwide – significantly higher than other specialised areas such as gerontology, neurology, or paediatrics. More than one in three patients are dealing with bone, joint, muscle, or connective tissue issues, from acute injuries to chronic conditions.

Source: Australian Physiotherapy Association, AIHW: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare

Back Pain: Australia’s Silent Epidemic

Within the broad category of musculoskeletal conditions, back pain stands out as the frontrunner. Around 4 million Australians (16% of our population) are currently living with back problems. Back pain alone accounts for 34% of the total musculoskeletal disease burden in Australia.

If you’re reading this while managing back pain, you’re far from alone. You’re part of a large group seeking relief – and at Malvern Physio, we support people with back pain every single day using targeted treatment and education.

Learn more about back pain and how it can be managed.

Beyond Back Pain: Other Common Conditions We Treat

While back pain tops the list, our physiotherapists treat a wide range of conditions, including:

Osteoarthritis and joint problems – affecting knees, hips, shoulders, and hands
Rheumatoid arthritis – requiring coordinated inflammatory and mobility care
Soft tissue injuries – such as muscle and ligament injuries,, tendinopathies including tendonitis, and rotator cuff tears
Neck pain and whiplash – often from poor posture, injury, or prolonged desk work
Shoulder conditions – including frozen shoulder, rotator cuff conditions and impingement syndromes
Knee injuries – including ACL, MCL, and meniscus tears
Tendinopathies – such as Achilles tendinopathy or tennis/golfer’s elbow
Plantar fasciitis and foot pain – affecting mobility and daily function
Sports-related injuries – from sprains, muscle tears such as a hamstring strain, to overuse syndromes
Chronic pain conditions – including fibromyalgia and complex regional pain syndrome
Falls prevention and balance issues – especially in our older patients
Postural-related pain – caused by prolonged sitting, repetitive strain, or ergonomics

These issues may result from acute trauma, overuse, degeneration, or inflammatory disease. Our experienced team uses manual therapy, Clinical Pilates, exercise programs, and education to restore function.

Living With Musculoskeletal Conditions: You’re Not Alone

Roughly 7.3 million Australians – 29% of the population – live with chronic musculoskeletal conditions. At Malvern Physio, we see you, and we’re here to help.

Every day, we support patients with:

Post-operative rehab
Pregnancy-related pain
Persistent neck and shoulder tension
Return-to-sport recovery plans

Learn more about our services:

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re struggling with pain, stiffness, or a lingering injury, book an appointment with us today. Our physiotherapists are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal conditions with a compassionate and personalised approach.

Book your assessment now

At Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic, we believe in evidence-based care, clear communication, and restoring your confidence in movement.

Sources: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA), peer-reviewed data on musculoskeletal disease burden in Australia.

Written by Mark Fotheringham

Mark Fotheringham is the Principal Physiotherapist and Director of Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic. With over 20 years of clinical experience, he has a strong reputation for delivering evidence-based care in musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy. Mark holds a Bachelor of Physiotherapy and has completed extensive postgraduate training in load management, injury rehabilitation, and advanced biomechanical assessment.

Throughout his career, Mark has worked with patients ranging from everyday Australians managing back pain to elite athletes requiring precise recovery strategies. His expertise spans the most common physiotherapy conditions seen in Australia, including back pain, osteoarthritis, post-operative recovery, and complex injury management.

As a clinician and practice owner, Mark is committed to combining hands-on treatment with the latest research and technology to deliver measurable results. His focus on patient-centred care and ongoing professional development ensures that every member of the Malvern Physio team upholds the highest standard of physiotherapy practice.

Published September 15, 2025