Why "Dr Google" Can't Replace a Proper Assessment

When pain starts, many people turn to Google for answers. A quick search can provide endless advice — stretches, exercises, and possible diagnoses. While this can be helpful, it often leads to confusion and, in some cases, the wrong approach to recovery.

The main issue with "Dr Google" is that it provides general information, not advice tailored to you. It doesn't know your injury history, your movement patterns, your workload, or your goals. Two people with the same symptom, such as knee or back pain, can have completely different underlying causes.

Following generic advice may temporarily ease symptoms, but it often fails to address the real problem. This is why many people experience recurring pain or slow progress despite trying multiple exercises.

Physiotherapy takes a different approach.

At Calwell Physiotherapy Clinic, we focus on understanding why your pain has developed. Through a detailed assessment, we look at joint mobility, muscle strength, movement patterns, and your current capacity. This allows us to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms, not just the symptoms themselves.

From there, we create a personalised rehabilitation plan designed specifically for you. This may include targeted strengthening, movement retraining, and gradual progression back to your normal activities, work, or sport.

Pain is often a signal rather than the problem itself. For example, knee pain may be linked to reduced strength, poor control, or sudden changes in load. Without addressing these factors, symptoms are likely to return.

Getting the right diagnosis early can make a significant difference. Instead of guessing or trying multiple online solutions, a structured plan helps you recover more efficiently and reduces the risk of ongoing issues.

Searching online is a good starting point — but it shouldn't replace professional care.

If your pain is ongoing, recurrent, or limiting your daily activities, it may be time to move beyond guesswork.

Recovery starts with the right diagnosis and the right plan.