Sports Therapy vs Physiotherapy: What’s the Difference?

Sports therapy and physiotherapy are often confused — and while they overlap, they’re not the same. Both help with pain, injury, and movement, but they approach treatment differently. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right professional for your needs. Read this article to discover the differences between sports therapy vs physiotherapy.

1. Training and Background

Physiotherapists

• Medically trained

• Treat a wide range of conditions

• Work in hospitals, clinics, and private practice

Sports Therapists

• Specialise in musculoskeletal injuries

• Focus on exercise‑based rehabilitation

• Often work with athletes and active individuals

2. Treatment Focus

Physiotherapy

Helps with:

• chronic pain

• mobility issues

• post‑surgery recovery

• neurological conditions

• sports injuries

Sports Therapy

Helps with:

• sports injuries

• performance improvement

• strength and conditioning

• movement patterns

• injury prevention

3. Techniques Used

Both may use:

• manual therapy

• soft tissue work

• stretching

• exercise rehab

Sports therapists often include:

• strength training

• conditioning

• sport‑specific drills

Physiotherapists may include:

• joint mobilisation

• neurological rehab

• post‑operative care

4. Who Each One Helps

Physiotherapy is ideal for:

• people with chronic pain

• mobility issues

• post‑surgery recovery

• neurological conditions

• general injuries

Sports therapy is ideal for:

• athletes

• gym‑goers

• runners, cyclists, lifters

• people wanting performance‑focused rehab

5. Which Should You Choose?

Choose physiotherapy if you have:

• chronic pain

• mobility issues

• post‑surgery needs

• complex injuries

Choose sports therapy if you want:

• performance improvement

• sport‑specific rehab

• strength‑based recovery

Read more about sports therapists and physiotherapists for further information.

Related professions:

Sports massage therapists

FAQ's

Which is better for sports injuries?

Both can help, but sports therapists specialise in exercise‑based rehabilitation and performance, while physiotherapists treat a wider range of injuries and conditions.

Can I see both?

Yes. Many people benefit from a combination of hands‑on treatment and strength‑based rehab.

Do they treat the same conditions?

There is overlap, but physiotherapists treat a broader range of medical and mobility issues.

Is sports therapy only for athletes?

No — it’s suitable for anyone with pain or mobility issues.

Which one is more hands‑on?

Both use hands‑on techniques, but sports therapy often includes more exercise‑based work.

Are you a sports therapist or physiotherapist?

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