Did You Know You Don’t Need a GP Referral to lodge ACC or see a Physiotherapist

It’s Monday morning and you’re feeling the effects of that weekend sporting venture, netball game, DIY project, or impromptu touch rugby match. Maybe your ankle’s a bit swollen, your knee is aching, or your neck is stiff from an awkward movement. You know it’s not bad enough for the accident and emergency department, but you’re still in pain and unsure what to do next.

The good news? You don’t need a GP referral to lodge an ACC claim or see a physiotherapist in New Zealand — and you don’t have to wait in long hospital queues to get help. You can book directly with your local physio in Dunedin and start your recovery right away.

At Physio Performance Dunedin, we can assess your injury, begin treatment immediately, lodge your ACC claim and refer for x rays and other scans saving you both time and discomfort.

Why Early Physiotherapy Matters

When you’ve had a recent injury — whether it’s a sprained ankle, a sore knee, or shoulder pain from sport — the first few days are crucial. Many people wait to “see if it gets better,” but early assessment by a physiotherapist can make a huge difference.

Physiotherapy helps you:

• Understand your injury and how serious it is and what it is

• Manage pain and swelling safely

• Prevent long-term stiffness or weakness

• Get back to activity faster

You don’t have to push through pain or guess what’s wrong — your physio can provide clear guidance, tailored exercises, and hands-on treatment to start the healing process immediately.

No Referral Needed – Just Book Direct

Here in NZ, you can go straight to a physiotherapist without seeing a doctor first. Physiotherapists are trained to diagnose musculoskeletal injuries and can refer you for imaging (like X-rays or scans) if necessary.

That means if you’re dealing with knee pain, neck pain, an ankle sprain, or a weekend sports injury, you can skip the GP appointment and get expert care right away.

We Can Lodge Your ACC Claim

If your injury happened as a result of an accident — whether during sport, exercise, work, home or a slip or fall — you may be covered by ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation).

At Physio Performance Dunedin, we can:

• Help determine if your injury qualifies for ACC

• Complete and lodge your ACC claim form during your first appointment

• Handle all the paperwork for you

You’ll only need to pay a small ACC co-payment, and your physio sessions will be subsidised (if accepted by ACC). No GP visit required, no extra waiting — just direct access to care.

Common Injuries We See After the Weekend

Weekend injuries come in all shapes and sizes — from sports and gym sessions to gardening or household chores gone wrong. Here are some of the most common issues our team helps with:

• Ankle sprains from uneven ground or quick changes in direction

• Knee pain or ACL strains from sport or gym workouts

• Neck and shoulder pain from lifting awkward loads

• Lower back strains from heavy lifting or twisting

• Muscle tightness or bruising after exercise or physical activity

Even if your injury feels “minor,” getting it checked early helps prevent it from turning into something more serious later.

What to Expect at Your Physio Appointment

When you visit Physio Performance Dunedin, your physiotherapist will:

• Assess your injury through movement, strength tests and discussion about how it happened.

• Explain what’s going on in plain language — no confusing medical jargon.

• Start treatment right away, which may include gentle manual therapy, taping, or guided movement.

• Provide a clear plan for recovery, including home exercises and practical advice.

Your physio will also check if your injury qualifies for ACC and handle your claim on the spot, so you can focus on feeling better.

Book your physio appointment as soon as possible — early treatment leads to faster results.

Why Choose Physio Performance Dunedin

At Physio Performance, our experienced team helps active Dunedin locals recover quickly from sprains, strains, and other injuries. We’re passionate about keeping you moving — whether you’re a weekend athlete, a busy parent, or just someone who wants to feel pain-free again.

We provide:

• Direct booking — no GP referral needed

• On-the-spot ACC claim support

• Tailored rehab and exercise programs

• Hands-on treatment for faster results

• A welcoming, supportive environment

You don’t have to wait in line at the hospital or wonder if your pain will go away on its own. We’re here to help you recover properly.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

If you’ve had a recent injury and you’re sore, stiff, or just not moving right — don’t wait. You can see a physiotherapist directly and get the care you need today.

At Physio Performance Dunedin, we’ll assess your injury, lodge your ACC claim, and get you started on your recovery plan — no referral, no hassle, just professional care when you need it.

Book your appointment today online or by calling 03 477 2853 and let’s get you back on your feet.