What is the difference between Neurological Physiotherapy and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy?
Finding the right type of physiotherapy for you is important for your rehabilitation journey. Depending on your condition or injury, you may be recommended a physiotherapist with a specific area of expertise. Two common specialities are neurological physiotherapy and musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy. But what exactly is the difference between them?
Let’s break it down.
What is Neurological Physiotherapy?
Neurological physiotherapy focuses on helping people who have problems with movement and functioning due to injury or damage to the nervous system—this includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves that supply our arms and legs.
Common conditions treated by neurological physiotherapists:
- Stroke
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s Disease (PD)
- Brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Cerebral Palsy
Treatment aims to improve:
- Balance
- Coordination
- Muscle tone
- Strength
- Posture
- Gait (walking)
- Control of movement
- Functional independence (e.g. walking, standing, or getting dressed)
Treatment is often long-term and requires a patient-specific approach because neurological conditions can be complex and symptoms can vary in how they affect individuals.
What is Musculoskeletal (MSK) Physiotherapy?
MSK physiotherapy deals with problems related to the muscles, joints, bones, and soft tissues.
Common conditions treated by MSK physiotherapists:
- Back and neck pain
- Sports injuries
- Arthritis
- Tendonitis
- Sprains and strains
- Pre and post-surgical rehabilitation (e.g. after knee or hip replacements, spinal surgery)
Treatment aims to:
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Restore movement and flexibility
- Strengthen muscles
- Improve posture
- Prevent further injury
Treatment is often short-medium term, looking at the reason for your symptoms and giving advice on how to prevent reoccurring problems.
Key differences between Neurological and MSK Physiotherapy at a glance
| Neurological | MSK | |
| Focus
|
Nervous system (brain, spinal cord, nerves) | Muscles, bones, joints, soft tissues |
| Common Conditions Treated | Stroke, MS, Parkinson’s, brain or spinal cord injury | Back pain, sprains, arthritis, sports injuries |
| Treatment Goals
|
Restore function, balance, movement control | Reduce pain, restore mobility, improve strength |
| Approach
|
Long-term, rehab-based | Often short to medium term, pain-focused |
| Patients’ Needs
|
Often more complex, involving multiple systems | More localised and often mechanical in nature |
Which One Do You Need?
Physiotherapy is all about personalisation and looking at somebody holistically. Sometimes, the lines between the two specialties can overlap, and you might benefit from a multifaceted approach. It is important that you find the best approach for you and your condition.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are relearning how to walk after a stroke or recovering from a sports injury, the right physiotherapist can make all the difference to your progress. Understanding the distinction between neurological and MSK physiotherapy helps ensure you get the right care from the right expert.
Do you need advice on which type of physiotherapy is right for you?
Get in touch—we’re here to guide you on the path to better movement and a healthier life!
