New patient offer · ends 31 December 2026
$99 first chiropractic consultation with Dr Phil (normally $134)
Save $35 on your initial consultation at Bodyline Health, 17 Main Road, Lower Plenty. Quote code CHIRO35. New patients only. No referral needed, HICAPS on the spot, free parking.
Written by Dr Phillip Mifsud, Chiropractor & Exercise Physiologist and founder of Bodyline Health, Lower Plenty. Updated September 2026.
At a glance
- Bodyline Health: 17 Main Road, Lower Plenty VIC 3093 · (03) 9017 4784
- Chiropractor: Dr Phillip Mifsud, chiropractor and exercise physiologist, 25+ years
- Physiotherapist: Mary Fleming, Mondays 12:30pm–6pm and Wednesdays 9am–6pm
- No referral needed · HICAPS on the spot · Free parking · Fully accessible
What does a chiropractor do?
Chiropractors assess the spine, joints, muscles and nerves, and may use spinal manipulation or mobilisation, soft-tissue techniques, and advice on movement and exercise. In Australia, chiropractors are registered with AHPRA through the Chiropractic Board of Australia.
What does a physio do?
Physiotherapists assess movement and function and commonly use exercise programs, manual therapy and education. They are registered with AHPRA through the Physiotherapy Board of Australia.
How are they similar?
Both take a history, do a physical assessment, can recommend imaging when appropriate, and should refer you to your GP if something needs medical attention. Both often include exercise and self-management advice.
Chiropractor or physio: which should I see first?
There isn’t one right answer. Things people consider include what has helped them before, whether they’d like hands-on care, exercise-based care or both, availability, location and cost. Neither needs a GP referral for private appointments.
Can I see both?
Yes. Some people see a chiropractor and a physio, or an exercise physiologist, at different stages. Let each practitioner know about the other care you’re receiving. At Bodyline Health you can see both under one roof: our chiropractor and our physiotherapist work from the same clinic, and Dr Phil is also an exercise physiologist, so assessment and exercise guidance can be combined in the same visit.
What to expect when you book at Bodyline Health
Whether you choose a chiropractor or physio at Bodyline Health, your first visit starts with a conversation about your back pain, your health history and your goals, followed by a physical assessment. Your practitioner will explain what they think is going on, talk through your options and check you’re comfortable before any treatment. If they think another practitioner, including a GP, would suit you better, they’ll tell you. You can read more about what happens at your first chiropractic appointment, or see our timetable for practitioner days.
Chiropractor or physio: common questions
Is a chiropractor or physio better for back pain?
Neither is better for everyone; both are registered professions that manage back pain.
Do I need a referral?
No, not for a private appointment at Bodyline Health.
Can I claim on health insurance?
Many extras policies cover both. Bodyline Health has HICAPS on the spot.
Can I see a chiropractor and a physio at Bodyline Health?
Yes. Dr Phil and physiotherapist Mary Fleming both consult at Bodyline Health in Lower Plenty.
When to see your GP
See your GP or call 000 if back pain follows a significant fall or accident, comes with fever or unexplained weight loss, numbness in the groin area, new bladder or bowel problems, or leg weakness that is getting worse.
Book an assessment
Call (03) 9017 4784 or book online. Initial chiro consult $134 (new patients $99 until 31 December 2026 via the special button on our homepage). Open Mon–Thu 8am–7pm, Fri 8am–6pm, Sat 8am–2pm.
For general information, see healthdirect’s guide to chiropractic.
General information only. Not a substitute for individual advice.
