PHYSIOTHERAPY & PHYSICAL THERAPY, WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?-DUBLIN, IRELAND

There are a number of differences between Physiotherapists and Physical Therapists here in Ireland.

Physical Therapists all work in private practice. Many are affiliated with sports teams, especially the GAA.  We specialise from day one on assessing and treating musculo-skeletal problems. That is, muscle aches, pains, strains, injuries and chronic movement issues such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and back pain to name a few.

Physiotherapy mostly focuses primarily on hospital work, postoperative care for example,  whereas Physical Therapy is predominantly the treatment of non threatening injuries.

Both however are degree courses and have a common goal, to make you better.

Physical Therapy concentrates on the use of hands-on techniques predominantly with some therapists using dry needling and electrical modalities to accelerate healing. You may be given exercises, functional training to help your recovery, your Physical Therapist will monitor your progress accordingly.

Physiotherapy mostly incorporates electrical modalities such as interferential, ultrasound, tens, laser, dry needles and other non-manual treatments. They may use hands on therapy too.  They  will also prescribe corrective exercises and monitor your progress.

Physical Therapists are trained with a view to a longer client consultation, a detailed case history is taken on your first appointment. The approach to treatment is generally more holistic, which by virtue of its hands-on nature is more client-centred. As its a private practice your treatment will generally be 45mins-60 mins

Physiotherapists due to the nature of hospital waiting lists, time pressures cannot always provide such lengthy treatments. Private practice would however provided longer treatments.

Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy are accepted by most health insurance companies, please check your personal policy for your entitlements.

Whether you choose Physical Therapy or Physiotherapy is really a personal choice. I would always say to my clients, it is whatever works best for you.


When deciding which therapist to attend look/ ask for the following.

• Ask a friend to recommend someone, word of mouth is generally the best way to find a therapist
• Are they local to you
• Are they registered with their governing body. (I.A.P.T- Irish Association of Physical Therapists)
• Can give you appointment times to suit you.
• Will issue you receipts for your Private Health Insurance
• If you don’t like or trust them, don’t go back.

Make sure you get the best treatment, from the best Therapist you can find. Its your body after all, you wouldn’t give your car to an untrained mechanic so don’t  compromise your most valuable asset either!

Further reading: What’s the difference between Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy

If you would like to contact me to discuss the nature of your ailment, injury, please feel free to contact me. Either fill out the contact sheet below, ring me 0866047945 or email me, sineadekennedy@gmail.com.
We can make an appointment that suits you and get you on the road to recovery. 

Sinéad
About the Author:
Sinéad Kennedy is a Physical Therapist, Yoga Siromani and Pilates Instructor, based in South County Dublin. She treats and teaches people from all walks of life, including many athletes, especially cyclists, runners & golfers. Recently featured in the Irish Independant, FIT Magazine, her Yoga 4 Cyclists class has gained notoriety.
A keen cyclist and proud member of Orwell Wheelers she has completed numerous cycling events including La Marmotte Sportive.  Sinéad has also completed two Dublin City Marathons, numerous Adventure Races and Half Marathons.