The 5 Most Common Injuries We See in Physiotherapy (and When to Seek Help)

If you’re based in Perth, you’re not alone in dealing with aches and pains that interfere with your daily life. Whether it’s stiffness from long hours at a desk or discomfort during exercise, musculoskeletal issues are incredibly common, and often highly treatable.

At Prime Physio & Pilates in Parkwood, we regularly help clients manage pain, restore movement, and get back to doing what they love. Early assessment and the right treatment approach can make a significant difference in both recovery time and long-term outcomes.

Here’s a closer look at the five most common conditions we see, and when it’s time to seek professional help.

1. Low Back Pain:

Low back pain is one of the leading reasons people seek physiotherapy. It can develop from poor movement patterns, prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, or a sudden increase in activity levels. While many cases settle on their own, ongoing or recurrent back pain may indicate underlying movement or strength deficits.

When to seek help:

• If your pain is persisting, limiting your ability to complete daily tasks, or travelling down your leg, it’s time to come in for an assessment.

2. Neck Pain

Neck pain is becoming increasingly common, particularly with the rise in desk work and screen time. Poor posture, sustained positions, and stress can all contribute to tightness and discomfort in the neck and upper back. Over time, this can lead to reduced mobility and associated symptoms.

When to seek help: 

• If your neck pain is ongoing or accompanied by headaches, stiffness, or tingling into the arms, physiotherapy can help address both the symptoms and underlying causes.

3. Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement typically presents as pain when lifting the arm, especially overhead or out to the side. It is often related to muscle imbalances, poor shoulder mechanics, or repetitive use. Without treatment, it can begin to interfere with sleep and everyday activities.

When to seek help:

• If you experience persistent shoulder pain, weakness, difficulty with overhead movements, or if you can’t comfortably lie on your shoulder, it’s time to seek professional care.

4. Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that becomes more common with age, but it can also be influenced by previous injuries, activity levels, and muscle strength. While it can’t be reversed, the right management can significantly reduce pain and improve function.

When to seek help:

• If you’re noticing increasing stiffness, swelling, or difficulty with walking, stairs, or kneeling, physiotherapy can help you stay active and independent.

5. Tendonitis

Tendon pain (often referred to as tendonitis or tendinopathy) is usually caused by overload when the tendon is exposed to more stress than it can tolerate. This is common in both active individuals and those returning to exercise after a break.

When to seek help:

• If your pain is persistent, worse after activity, or associated with morning stiffness, it’s important to get assessed to prevent it from becoming a longer-term issue.

How We Can Help

At Prime Physio & Pilates, we take a personalised, evidence-based approach to your care. Rather than just treating symptoms, we focus on identifying the root cause of your pain and addressing contributing factors such as strength, mobility, and movement patterns.

Your treatment may include:

• Hands-on therapy to reduce pain and improve mobility

• Dry needling to relieve muscle tension

• Progressive, exercise-based rehabilitation tailored to your goals

We work with you to create a clear plan, so you feel confident in your recovery every step of the way.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, don’t ignore them. Early intervention can lead to faster recovery, reduce the risk of recurrence, and help you get back to doing what you enjoy sooner.

Book your assessment today and take the first step towards moving and feeling better.