18/08/2026
Good times to book an appointment
- After a fallđź“Śonce any urgent medical issues (fractures, head injury, severe pain, etc.) have been checked and cleared by a doctor.
A physiotherapist can assess residual pain, stiffness, weakness, swelling, or fear of falling and create a recovery plan.
- You have ongoing pain, limited range of motion, or difficulty with everyday activities (walking, stairs, getting up from a chair) that isn’t improving after a few days.
- You notice balance problems, unsteadiness, or reduced confidence on your feet — these raise the risk of another fall.
- You’re recovering from a sprain, strain, soft-tissue injury, or (after medical clearance) a fracture or joint issue.
- When to see a doctor *first*
Go to a doctor or emergency care before physiotherapy if you have:
- Suspected fracture, dislocation, or severe joint injury
- Significant head injury symptoms
- Unexplained swelling, redness, warmth, or fever
- Numbness, tingling, or sudden weakness
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or other red-flag symptoms
A physiotherapist works on rehabilitation and function; they do not replace medical diagnosis or emergency care.
🦅🦅Practical tip
Many people benefit from physiotherapy within the first 1–2 weeks after a minor-to-moderate fall once acute pain settles, or sooner if a doctor refers you. Early, guided movement often speeds recovery and reduces the chance of long-term problems or another fall.
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms fit, contact your doctor or a physiotherapist’s clinic and describe what happened — they can usually advise whether an assessment is appropriate.
