If you’re living with osteoarthritis, chances are you’ve heard that physiotherapy can help. But if you’re feeling nervous, hesitant, or even a little sceptical about starting physio — you’re not alone.
Many of our clients at Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon felt the same way when they first walked through our doors. Some had tried physiotherapy in the past and didn’t get the results they hoped for. Others were worried it might hurt. Some simply didn’t know where to start, or feared they were “too old” or “too far gone” to make real progress.
This article is for you — to clear up some common fears, explain what to expect, and help you feel more confident about taking that first step.
“I’m Worried It’s Going to Hurt”
This is one of the most common concerns we hear.
If you’re already dealing with joint pain, the last thing you want is someone pushing you through painful exercises or forcing your body to move in ways it’s not ready for.
Here’s the good news: modern physiotherapy for osteoarthritis is not about pushing through pain.
At our Booragoon physiotherapy clinic, we focus on helping you move with less pain — not more. That starts with a proper assessment and a personalised approach. Everything we do is based on your current condition, your goals, and what feels safe for your body.
We’ll go at your pace. And if something doesn’t feel right, we’ll adjust.
“I Tried Physio Before and It Didn’t Help”
Not all physio is the same.
Some people come to us feeling disheartened because they’ve tried physiotherapy before, but didn’t get the outcome they wanted. Maybe they were handed a printout of exercises and sent home. Maybe they were told to avoid activity altogether. Or maybe they just didn’t feel listened to.
That’s not how we do things at Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage.
Our physios take the time to understand your story — what you’ve tried, what hasn’t worked, what you’re worried about, and what you want to achieve. We don’t offer cookie-cutter programs. We build a plan just for you, based on your history, medical background, and current mobility.
And we’re with you every step of the way — coaching, encouraging, and adjusting the plan as you go.
“I’m Overwhelmed and Don’t Know Where to Start”
Osteoarthritis can be confusing. You might feel like you’re getting mixed messages:
“Don’t do too much.”
“Keep moving.”
“Avoid stairs.”
“Strengthen your legs.”
It’s no wonder many people feel stuck.
You don’t need to have all the answers — that’s our job. When you book a physiotherapy appointment at our Booragoon clinic, we start with a calm, one-on-one session. You’ll never feel rushed. We’ll walk you through everything in plain English, answer your questions, and create a clear, achievable plan.
And our clinic isn’t like a loud gym or intimidating hospital setting. It’s a clean, quiet, and supportive space where you’ll be treated with respect and care.
What You Can Expect From Starting Physio
When you begin physiotherapy for osteoarthritis, here’s what you can expect from us:
A thorough movement and joint assessment
A clear explanation of what’s going on and what can be done
Gentle, guided mobility and strength work tailored to your body
Help managing pain and stiffness
Ongoing support and guidance — no guessing or going it alone
You’ll also gain something many people with osteoarthritis lose: hope and confidence. Our goal is to help you feel more in control of your body again — not just today, but in the months and years to come.
Why Osteoarthritis Needs Movement — The Right Kind
You may have been told to rest, avoid certain movements, or stop exercising altogether.
But here’s what the latest research — and years of experience in our clinic — shows:
Movement is medicine for osteoarthritis.
Specifically, guided strength and mobility work can:
Reduce joint pain and stiffness
Improve balance and coordination
Support the muscles around affected joints
Make daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or getting out of a chair easier
The key is doing the right kind of movement, in the right way, at the right time.
That’s where working with an experienced physio in Booragoon makes all the difference. We’ll guide you safely, monitor your progress, and adjust the plan to suit your needs.
“But I’m Not Fit” or “I’m Too Old”
We hear this all the time — and it’s simply not true.
We regularly help clients in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond. Some are still quite active, others are just getting started. What they all have in common is a desire to move better and feel better — and a need for a plan that meets them where they’re at.
You don’t need to be fit to start. You just need to be willing to take that first step.
Real People, Real Progress
Take Helen, a 68-year-old local from Melville, who came to us after being told to “just live with the pain” in her knees. She was hesitant at first, but after a few sessions of targeted strength work and simple mobility drills, she noticed she could walk longer without discomfort.
Or Jim, 72, from Myaree, who thought he’d never be able to get back to gardening. After 3 months of physio and support from our team, he’s back on his feet — and back in the garden.
You don’t have to do it alone — and you don’t have to settle for just “managing” your osteoarthritis.
Let’s Take the First Step Together
If you’re nervous, we understand. Starting something new — especially when it involves your health — can be daunting.
But taking that first step toward less pain, better movement, and more independence is absolutely worth it.
At Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon, we specialise in helping people just like you manage osteoarthritis with confidence. You’ll feel supported, listened to, and never rushed. We’ll guide you with care and experience — and help you build a stronger, more mobile future.
Book Your Initial Physio Appointment Today
Ready to feel better?
Book your initial physiotherapy session at our Booragoon clinic — and take the first step toward moving with less pain and more confidence.
Book Online or call us on (08) 9468 3555.