Whether it's a back that seizes up after a long week at your desk, a knee that hasn't felt right since your last run, or recovery after surgery, a good physiotherapist can make a real difference. Here's how to find the right physio in Malta, and what to expect when you book.
When should you see a physiotherapist?
Physiotherapy helps with pain, stiffness, weakness and loss of movement. Common reasons people book include:
- Lower back pain and neck pain
- Shoulder pain and frozen shoulder
- Sports injuries, including sprains, strains and tendon problems
- Sciatica and other nerve-related pain
- Headaches that start in the neck
- Jaw pain and TMJ dysfunction
- Posture problems and pain from desk work
- Rehabilitation after surgery or injury
As a rule of thumb, if pain or stiffness hasn't settled within a week or two, keeps coming back, or is stopping you from doing things you enjoy, it's worth getting it assessed.
How to choose a physiotherapist in Malta
- Check qualifications and registration. Physiotherapists in Malta must be registered to practise. Postgraduate training in areas such as manual therapy or sports physiotherapy is a good sign of specialist expertise.
- Look for a thorough assessment. A good physio will want to understand the cause of your pain, not just treat the symptom.
- Expect a plan, not just a session. You should leave knowing what's going on, what the treatment plan is, and what you can do at home.
- Consider location. Physio often means several appointments, so somewhere close to home or work makes it far easier to stick with.
Meet our Doctor of Physiotherapy
Dr Carlo Conti holds a BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy from the University of Malta, a Masters in Manual Therapy from the University of Western Australia, and a Doctorate in Clinical Physiotherapy from the University of Melbourne. He also holds a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy, allowing a truly holistic approach to care.
Carlo's areas of expertise include manual therapy for back, shoulder and other pain, sitting posture and workstation ergonomics, TMJ dysfunction, neuralgias such as sciatica and neck-derived headaches, tendon and ligament injuries, and dry needling. His background includes working with elite athletes, the British Military and professionals in the film industry.
Physio for office workers and iGaming professionals
Many of our physiotherapy patients spend most of their day sitting, including a large number working in iGaming and other office-based roles. Long hours at a screen can lead to neck and shoulder tension, lower back pain and headaches. Treatment combines hands-on therapy with practical changes to posture and workstation setup, so the improvement lasts beyond the treatment room.
Physiotherapist or osteopath?
Both physiotherapists and osteopaths treat muscle and joint problems with hands-on techniques, and there's a lot of overlap. Physiotherapy tends to place more emphasis on exercise-based rehabilitation, while osteopathy takes a whole-body approach using manual techniques. At Demajo Medical you have both under one roof: our osteopath, Anne Soeffken, also originally qualified as a physiotherapist and specialises in pelvic health and pre- and postnatal care. If you're not sure which is right for you, call reception and we'll help you decide.
What happens at your first physio appointment?
- A conversation. Your physio will ask about your symptoms, how they started, your work and activity levels, and your goals.
- An assessment. This usually includes looking at how you move, testing strength and flexibility, and pinpointing the source of the problem.
- A clear explanation and plan. You'll understand what's going on and how many sessions are likely to help.
- Treatment. Often started in the first session, and may include manual therapy, dry needling or exercises.
Wear comfortable clothing that lets you move freely and gives access to the area being treated, and bring any scans or reports you have.
Physiotherapy in the north of Malta
If you live or work in Mellieħa, St Paul's Bay, Buġibba, Qawra, Xemxija or Mġarr, you don't need to travel to the centre of the island for expert physiotherapy. Demajo Medical is at Towns End, Triq il-Fortizza, Mellieħa, open Monday to Friday from 8.30 to 19.00 and on Saturday mornings, which makes it easier to fit sessions around work.
Book a physio appointment in Mellieħa
Book online or call 2123 8449. Read more about physiotherapy and osteopathy at Demajo Medical.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist in Malta?
You don't usually need a GP referral to book private physiotherapy. If you plan to claim through health insurance, check your policy, as some insurers ask for a referral.
How many physio sessions will I need?
It depends on the problem and how long you've had it. Your physiotherapist will give you an estimate after your first assessment and review progress as you go.
Does physiotherapy hurt?
Some techniques can feel uncomfortable, but treatment should never be more than you can manage. Your physio will explain each step and adjust to you.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling uses very fine needles to release tight, painful points in muscles. It's one of several techniques our physiotherapist may use as part of a wider treatment plan.
Can physiotherapy help with desk-related pain?
Yes. Neck, shoulder and back pain from long hours of sitting is one of the most common things we treat, with a focus on posture and workstation ergonomics.
