Most common physiotherapist questions - Dapto physio Chris Vitucci answers

As a physiotherapist with over 7 years of experience, I often get asked similar questions by patients new and old. These questions represent the main concerns people have when thinking about physiotherapy or injury recovery. I wanted to share my honest answers to help you feel more informed and confident about your health journey.

1. How long will this take to get better?

Healing times vary greatly depending on the injury, severity, and your own body's response. Minor issues like an ankle sprain often improve in weeks, while more complex problems such as chronic back pain or post-op knee pain physiotherapy can take several months. I work closely with each patient to set realistic goals and keep you motivated throughout your personalised treatment plan at our physiotherapy clinic in Dapto.

2. Do I need surgery or medical imaging?

In most cases, surgery or imaging isn’t immediately necessary. I start with a thorough assessment and conservative treatments like exercise therapy and dry needling, which I specialise in. If your symptoms persist or if there are warning signs, I’ll recommend scans or specialist referrals. Surgery should be your last option after physiotherapy has been tried.

3. When can I run or return to sport?

Returning to sport too early can risk re-injury. The timing depends on your injury, sport's demands, and how well you progress in rehab. For example, ACL rehabilitation will require  12 + months of guided physio. I use objective measures like strength and balance tests to determine when you’re ready, tailoring your plan to your goals and providing clear guidance.

4. What can I do at home to help my recovery?

Consistency with home exercises, managing swelling, staying active within limits, good nutrition, and sleep all play big roles in recovering from injuries like knee pain or ankle sprains.

5. Is pain always a sign I’m making things worse?

Not all pain is bad. Some soreness during rehab is normal, but sharp or increasing pain means you should modify your activity and possibly consult me.

6. How can physiotherapy help with headaches or migraines?

In our Dapto Physio Clinic we address posture, muscle tension, and potential nerve irritations. Treatments like manual therapy and dry needling can reduce symptoms and improve function.

7. What should I expect during my first session?

Your initial visit involves a detailed consultation and assessment, forming the basis of a customised plan. To prepare for your first physiotherapy session, check out our detailed first visit guide.

8. Can physiotherapy help with vertigo?

Yes. Vestibular rehab techniques can reduce symptoms and improve balance through specialised exercises.

9. How do you treat TMJ dysfunction?

Treatment combines manual therapy, posture correction, exercises, and sometimes dry needling to relieve jaw pain and improve function.

10. What makes your approach different?

I focus on a performance-based, conservative approach, aiming to improve function and avoid unnecessary invasive procedures.

11. How often will I need appointments?

Frequency depends on your specific condition. Acute injuries often need weekly sessions initially, while chronic issues might have a tailored schedule tapering with progress.

12. Can physio help pre or post-surgery?

Definitely. Pre-surgery physio can optimise your strength and mobility, while post-op rehab is critical for full recovery and function.

13. What’s dry needling and how can it help?

Dry needling involves inserting fine needles into tight muscles to relieve pain and improve mobility. It’s highly effective for managing muscle joint and nerve related conditions.

Common Injuries our Dapto Physiotherapist can help with

If you’re dealing with persistent back pain, knee pain, or an ankle sprain, physiotherapy can significantly improve your recovery and function. Our expert team has extensive experience in managing these common injuries with personalised care plans designed for the Dapto and broader Illawarra community.

Click here to contact Functional Physiotherapy if you have any other questions!