Using physio to move (and stay) well
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 131 No 4, 26 June 2026, page no.29
From standing at the whiteboard to moving between classes, being an educator keeps you on your feet. To help keep you moving (both in and out of the classroom), we spoke with Health Hub Brisbane (part of Teachers Health) physiotherapist Alex Young about how physio can help you feel your best this term.
So, why physio?
Physiotherapy is a great way to stay active. Whether it’s to treat an injury or simply to make sure you’re maintaining mobility and strength, visiting your physio can really pay off.
Here’s why:
- It keeps you moving. Physio-recommended exercises like stretches and strength training, along with joint mobilisation, can go a long way to improving your range of motion and reducing stiffness.
- It improves strength. Your physio can help you focus on strengthening exercises to support your muscles and protect your joints. That means everyday activities like walking, bending, and lifting become easier and safer.
- It helps with pain. With physio, you may be able to treat those aches and pains with manual therapy, heat treatment, or an exercise program – rather than relying on pain medication. Plus, you’ll get a feel for what works for you, helping you manage minor niggles over the long term.
- It prevents injury. A physio can help you understand your body’s mechanics and posture, so you can reduce strain and prevent future injuries.
Physio is for everyone (not just educators!). From kids through to seniors, physio provides support and guidance at every stage of life. It helps build physical independence and a better understanding of how your body moves.
Listen to your body
Even without physio, simply being mindful about how you move your body can be useful during a busy school term.
Listening to your body and approaching new activities with a “progress over perfection” mindset is key to a good start. While we’re all keen to get in shape, doing things too quickly can lead to problems.
Before you jump into a new activity or exercise program, make sure you reduce your risk of injury with:
- a warm-up and cool-down routine
- supportive strapping or bracing (where needed)
- suitable footwear and the right equipment for your sport (and remembering sun safety)
- a sensible approach to building your cardiovascular fitness.
Remember, small steps are key to reaching your long-term fitness goals.
What if I do get an injury (or a niggle)?
Physio supports both injury prevention and recovery. Through expert assessment, personalised exercise plans and education, physio can help you not only recover from injury, but also:
- strengthen vulnerable areas
- improve movement efficiency
- restore balance and mobility
- support faster recovery and reduce the risk of re-injury.
Early intervention can make a big difference. Addressing discomfort before it escalates helps you stay on track with your fitness goals.
Health insurance (with physio!) for the education community
Not everyone gets what it’s like to be a teacher or school leader — Teachers Health does. That’s why their Extras cover includes physio and remedial massage - healthcare to help you continue to move (and stay) well.
For more information on Teachers Health, click here.