Online physiotherapy uses video calls for a physiotherapist to take your history, watch you move, explain the likely cause of your problem, and guide you through a personalised exercise programme. Follow-up sessions track progress and adjust exercises. It suits many common back, neck, shoulder and knee problems and rehabilitation, but not emergencies or problems needing hands-on treatment or imaging.
The first session
- History: where you feel pain, when it started, what makes it better or worse, your health and goals.
- Movement assessment: the physiotherapist asks you to perform movements on camera to observe range, strength, balance and posture.
- Explanation: a clear understanding of what is likely going on.
- Plan: a personalised exercise programme, advice on activity and posture, and goals.
Follow-up sessions
Check technique, progress exercises, adjust the plan and address new questions. Many people have sessions weekly or fortnightly, with daily home exercises.
Preparing for a session
- A quiet space with room to move.
- Comfortable clothing that allows the area to be seen.
- A device positioned so your whole body can be seen.
- A chair, a mat or towel, and possibly a resistance band.
Conditions it often helps
- Lower back and neck pain. See back pain from sitting.
- Posture-related pain. See text neck.
- Shoulder, knee and ankle problems.
- Sports injuries.
- Rehabilitation after surgery, once cleared by the surgeon.
- Strength and balance in older adults.
Limits
- No hands-on treatment such as manual therapy.
- Not suitable for emergencies or red-flag symptoms.
- Some problems need imaging or in-person examination; your physiotherapist will refer you.
Why it works
Much of physiotherapy's benefit comes from education and guided exercise, which translate well to video. Convenience also helps people stay consistent.
See our online physiotherapy service.
Frequently asked questions
Is online physiotherapy as good as in-person?
For many common problems, guided exercise online can be effective. Hands-on treatment is not possible online.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the problem; many people attend several sessions over a few weeks.
Can older adults use online physiotherapy?
Yes, often with a family member helping set up the device and ensure safety.
