Musculoskeletal physiotherapy is the term used to describe the field of physiotherapy practice which relates to disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Physiotherapists who practise in this area, are skilled in the assessment, diagnosis and physiotherapy management of musculoskeletal conditions. The clinical reasoning processes employed by musculoskeletal physiotherapists enables them to reach a diagnosis consistent with the findings of the clinical examination.

Research has shown that musculoskeletal physiotherapists are highly skilled in their examination. They are able to form a diagnosis similar to or better than those determined by sophisticated imaging processes. For example, the diagnosis of symptomatic facet joints, symptomatic intervertebral discs and lumbar instability.

Australian Musculoskeletal physiotherapists are world leading experts in the effective management of pain and other musculoskeletal disorders. These skills assist the medical practitioner with accurate, cost effective diagnosis and appropriate evidence based management.

Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT), including both passive mobilisation and manipulation, McKenzie therapy and promoting early activity, is effective in the short-term management of back pain. There is strong evidence to suggest that SMT is more effective in the management of chronic back pain than bed rest, analgesics, and massage. More importantly, the combination of SMT and exercise rehabilitation has increasing support in the management of back pain.