Physio vs Podiatrist: What’s the Difference and Who Should You See?

When it comes to treating musculoskeletal pain or injuries, two of the most common healthcare professionals you may be referred to are physiotherapists and podiatrists. While there are similarities between the two, their areas of expertise are quite different — and understanding this can help you choose the right specialist for your needs.

What Does a Physiotherapist Do?

A physiotherapist (physio) is trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the body’s muscles, bones, and joints. Their focus is on restoring movement, improving strength, and helping people recover from injuries or manage chronic conditions.

Physios often treat:

• Sports injuries such as sprains and strains

• Back and neck pain

• Arthritis and joint pain

• Neurological conditions affecting movement

• Post-surgical rehabilitation

Treatment techniques may include:

• Targeted exercise programs

• Hands-on therapies such as massage or joint mobilisation

• Strengthening and stretching

• Rehabilitation after injury or surgery

What Does a Podiatrist Do?

A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist. Their expertise is diagnosing and treating conditions that affect how you walk, run, and move.

Podiatrists commonly treat:

• Plantar fasciitis and heel pain

• Ingrown toenails and nail surgery

• Bunions and foot deformities

• Diabetic foot complications

• Sports injuries of the foot and ankle

In addition to hands-on treatment, podiatrists often use orthotics (custom shoe inserts), shockwave therapy, and footwear advice to correct underlying issues and prevent recurrence.

Training and Expertise

• Physiotherapists are trained to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions affecting the whole body.

• Podiatrists are highly specialised in the feet and ankles — areas that play a crucial role in balance, movement, and athletic performance.

Different Approaches to Treatment

While there is some overlap, the focus and tools each profession uses are different:

• Physiotherapists → exercise therapy, stretching, strengthening, manual therapy.

• Podiatrists → biomechanical assessments, orthotics, footwear modifications, shockwave therapy, nail and skin procedures.

For example:

• A physio may prescribe strengthening exercises for arthritis in the foot.

• A podiatrist may provide orthotics or footwear modifications to reduce pressure and pain.

Where Do They Work?

• Physiotherapists: hospitals, rehab centres, private clinics, sporting clubs.

• Podiatrists: private practices (like Melbourne Podiatry Clinic), hospitals, and community settings.

At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, we often work alongside physiotherapists to give patients the best outcome — combining whole-body rehab with foot and ankle expertise.

Who Should You See?

• See a physio if you have general musculoskeletal pain, spinal issues, or need rehabilitation after surgery or injury.

• See a podiatrist if you have foot or ankle pain, persistent heel pain, ingrown toenails, or need orthotics.

Often, the best results come from a team-based approach, with podiatrists and physiotherapists working together.

Expert Foot and Ankle Care in Melbourne

If your problem is in the foot or ankle, a podiatrist is your best starting point. At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, we assess the underlying cause of your pain and create a tailored treatment plan so you can move comfortably and confidently.

👉 Book an Appointment with a Podiatrist Today