5 Physio Myths That Are Holding You Back

Physiotherapy has come a long way—but there are still a lot of outdated ideas and misconceptions out there. Many people put off getting help because they believe physio is only for athletes, or they assume they’ll be stuck doing boring exercises forever. The truth? Physiotherapy can help almost anyone recover faster, prevent injuries, and move with more confidence.

Let’s bust some of the most common myths we hear in the clinic every day:

Myth #1: “Physiotherapy is only for sports injuries.”

Reality: Physio isn’t just for athletes—it’s for everyone. Sure, we help runners and cyclists recover, but we also treat people with back pain from desk jobs, moms dealing with pelvic floor issues, and older adults wanting to stay steady on their feet. If you have muscles, joints, or nerves (and you do!), physio can help you move and feel better.

Myth #2: “I need a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist.”

Reality: Not true! In B.C., you can book directly with a physiotherapist—no referral needed. This means you can get assessed and start treatment right away instead of waiting weeks or months for an appointment with your doctor.

Myth #3: “Physiotherapy is just a few stretches.”

Reality: While exercise is a big part of physio, it’s far from the whole story. A good physiotherapist will combine hands-on techniques, education, movement retraining, and sometimes advanced treatments like dry needling or vestibular therapy to get you better results. It’s personalized care—not a one-size-fits-all routine.

Myth #4: “If I rest, the problem will go away on its own.”

Reality: While rest can sometimes help, many injuries and aches don’t improve without the right kind of movement and treatment. In fact, staying inactive too long or moving poorly can make things worse. Physiotherapy helps you heal safely and get back to the activities you love—faster and stronger.

Myth #5: “Physio is so painful.”

Reality: You might feel a little soreness as your body adapts, but physio is designed to reduce pain, not create it. It might hurt a little but you won't be harmed. Your therapist will always work within your comfort zone and adjust treatments based on how your body responds.

Final Thoughts

Physiotherapy isn’t just about fixing injuries—it’s about helping you live without limits. Whether you’re recovering from an accident, struggling with ongoing pain, or just want to move better, physio can play a huge role in improving your quality of life.

So, if pain or stiffness has been holding you back, it might be time to put these myths to rest and see what physiotherapy can really do for you.