In Australia, neurological conditions affect hundreds of thousands of people, often leading to challenges in mobility, independence, and quality of life. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), an estimated 1 in 6 Australians (around 4.4 million people) are living with a disability, and many of these are related to neurological disorders such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), and cerebral palsy.
The following statistics highlight the need for support and understanding:
- 1 in 45 Aussies have an acquired brain injury (ABI) that limits participation in activities of daily living.
- Every day, approximately 50 Aussies are diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
- 1 stroke occurs every 11 minutes in Australia.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plays a vital role in funding and supporting Australians with permanent and significant disabilities, including those stemming from neurological conditions. But navigating the system and accessing the right therapies can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. This post breaks down the key therapies available and how you can ensure you’re getting the support you need.
Understanding therapy for neurological disorders
Neurological disorders affect the brain, spinal cord, and nerves throughout the body, which can disrupt muscle control, coordination, speech, cognition, and emotional regulation.
Common conditions include:
- Stroke
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Cerebral palsy
- Motor neurone disease (MND)
Therapy for neurological disorders typically focuses on improving or maintaining function, independence, and overall wellbeing. Treatments are usually multidisciplinary, involving Physiotherapists, Exercise Physiologists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Psychologists, and Dietitians.
NDIS therapy services: What’s covered?
The NDIS funds therapy services under its Capacity Building and Core Supports budgets.
If you have a neurological condition that significantly affects your daily life, you may be eligible to receive funding for:
- Physiotherapy
- Exercise Physiology
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech Therapy
- Psychology or counselling
- Assistive technology and mobility aids
NDIS plans are individualised, meaning what’s included depends on your goals and functional needs. It’s important to have a clear understanding of your condition and therapy goals during the planning or review meeting with the NDIS. If you’re unsure how to advocate for specific therapies, connecting with an experienced Support Coordinator or Allied Health professional can help you prepare reports and justifications for needed services.
Physiotherapy for neurological conditions
Physiotherapy is one of the most commonly recommended therapies for people living with neurological conditions. It focuses on restoring movement and function, improving balance and coordination, and reducing the risk of falls or further complications.
A neurological Physiotherapist tailors treatment plans to suit your specific condition and abilities.
Here are some examples:
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Stroke survivors |
May work on the following:
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People with Parkinson’s |
May benefit from:
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People with MS |
May use Physiotherapy to:
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Through consistent sessions, clients often experience improved independence, better pain management, and enhanced participation in daily activities.
Physiotherapy exercises for neurological conditions
One of the most frequently asked questions by NDIS Participants includes “what kind of exercises are included in therapy?”. Here are examples of Physiotherapy exercises for neurological conditions:
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Balance and stability drills |
These may include the use of:
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Task-specific practice |
May include activities such as:
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Strength and endurance training |
Training may use tools such as:
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Stretching routines |
The aim is to:
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Breathing and relaxation techniques |
These can help support the regulation of the nervous system
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These exercises are personalised to suit each Participant’s health condition and functional ability. In some cases, Hydrotherapy (Aquatic Physiotherapy) may be incorporated, offering a low-impact environment ideal for reducing muscle tension and improving joint movement. This can also be beneficial for people living with Parkinson’s disease to improve their balance and overcome fear of falling.
Accessing the right NDIS therapy services
So, how do you ensure you’re getting the right therapy for your neurological condition through the NDIS?
Here’s a practical step-by-step guide:
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Get a Comprehensive Assessment |
• Consult with your GP or neurologist and request updated reports • Include functional assessments and specific recommendations for therapy
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1 Work with Allied Health Professionals |
It is recommended that you work with Allied Health providers like:
These experts can complete functional assessments, outline therapy plans, and link them to your goals for the NDIS.
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Know Your NDIS Plan |
• Understand which therapies are covered under Capacity Building, Improved Daily Living, or other relevant budgets • Ask your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to explain the funding categories
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Request Regular Plan Reviews |
• If your condition changes or you aren’t receiving enough support, request a plan reassessment. • Updated therapy reports are crucial to justify adjustments.
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Choose NDIS-Registered Providers with Neuro Experience |
Seek out Providers who specialise in neurological rehabilitation. Their experience ensures you’re getting therapy aligned with best-practice guidelines and NDIS requirements.
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The importance of consistency and multidisciplinary care
Neurological conditions often progress or change over time. Consistent therapy and interdisciplinary collaboration are vital for long-term wellbeing. Your Physiotherapist and Exercise Physiologist might collaborate with a Speech Pathologist, Psychologist, or Occupational Therapist to address issues like communication, memory, fatigue, or daily living skills.
This team-based approach is especially important for progressive neurological disorders like MS or MND, where therapies need to adapt as new symptoms arise.
Empowering your recovery journey
Living with a neurological condition can be challenging, but access to the right therapy and NDIS supports can make a profound difference. Whether you’re relearning to walk after a stroke, managing muscle tone in cerebral palsy, or staying mobile with Parkinson’s disease, the NDIS gives you the opportunity to live more independently and with greater dignity.
The key is to stay informed, advocate for your needs, and work with experienced professionals who understand the NDIS and neurological rehabilitation inside and out.
For further information and updated statistics, visit authoritative sources such as the NDIS website and the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. These sites offer a wealth of information and practical guidance, ensuring that you are well-equipped to make informed decisions regarding your therapy and overall care.
Our Allied Health Team can help support your health journey
Finding the right therapy for neurological disorders under the NDIS is not a one-size-fits-all process — it’s a journey that requires the right supports, knowledge, and guidance. With the help of NDIS therapy services like Physiotherapy for neurological disorders, you can achieve meaningful improvements in your mobility, mental health, and overall quality of life.
Physiotherapy, along with other specialised therapies like Exercise Physiology, plays a vital role in supporting individuals with neurological conditions such as Cerebral Palsy, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, MS, and other complex disorders. These therapies can significantly improve mobility, coordination, strength, and overall wellbeing, empowering individuals to lead more active and independent lives.
At Healthstin, our experienced Physiotherapists and Exercise Physiologists design personalised therapy programmes that target movement challenges, manage muscle tone, and enhance functional capacity. Backed by evidence-based practice and a compassionate, client-centred approach, we help individuals living with neurological conditions reach their health and mobility goals – safely, confidently, and with the support they deserve.
Call 1300 090 931 or click here to book a session with us today!
