Simple ergonomic habits can prevent strain and protect physios’ backs, hands, and posture — helping clinicians stay strong for the long haul.

Physiotherapists spend their careers keeping others moving — but their own bodies often pay the price. Repetitive tasks, awkward postures, and heavy manual handling build up over time, leading to pain, strain, or even injury. The good news? Many of these risks can be reduced with simple daily changes.

Why It Matters

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the leading cause of workers’ compensation claims in Australia, making up more than half of all claims. Healthcare workers are particularly vulnerable because of long shifts, frequent patient handling, and the physical intensity of the job.

For physios, risks often include:

• Bending and twisting while mobilising a patient
• Repetitive gripping during manual therapy
• Awkward postures when demonstrating exercises
• Lifting or moving heavy equipment

How to Protect Your Back & Spine

Lift and shift smart

• Bend your knees, keep your spine neutral
• Use transfer tools or ask for help when moving patients
• Adjust plinth height before every session

Move with the patient

• Step sideways instead of twisting your torso
• Take micro-pauses between tasks to reset posture

Hands & Wrists: Your Primary Tools

• Vary your manual techniques — don’t rely on thumbs alone
• Keep wrists in neutral (avoid sustained bends)
• Strengthen grip with resistance band exercises
• Tape or brace if early strain appears

Staying Upright

Hours of standing, note-taking, or demonstrating exercises add up.

• Position screens and paperwork at eye level
• Carry bags/equipment on both shoulders
• Anchor your stance — feet hip-width, shifting weight often
• Hydrate to reduce fatigue and posture slump

Make Equipment Work for You

• Slide or wheel gear — avoid carrying
• Use transfer boards, gait belts, or lifters
• Keep frequently used items within easy reach

Build Daily Habits

Ergonomics isn’t a one-time checklist — it’s about small, repeatable habits:

• Reset plinth height before each patient
• Swap techniques and tools regularly
• Ask: “Could I do this move differently?”
• Listen early to your body’s warning signs

“I used to push through shoulder stiffness until it became weeks of pain. Now I adjust height, swap tools, and stretch between patients.” — Emma R., physio, Adelaide

A Career-Long Investment

Protecting your body isn’t just about avoiding short-term injury — it’s about career longevity. Musculoskeletal strain is a major reason physios reduce hours or leave the profession early. By making ergonomics part of everyday practice, clinicians can extend their working life and model healthy movement for their patients.

Strong backs and safe hands aren’t just good for clinicians — they’re essential for the people who rely on them.