Runner dealing with muscle pain during training
Open Mon–Sat

Chronic Pain Treatment in Melbourne

Breaking the cycle of long-standing pain with targeted, evidence-based treatment strategies.

Open Mon–SatHICAPS AvailableAHPRA-Registered Clinicians3 Melbourne LocationsSports-Focused ExpertiseEvidence-Based CareNo Referral Required15+ Years ExperienceOpen Mon–SatHICAPS AvailableAHPRA-Registered Clinicians3 Melbourne LocationsSports-Focused ExpertiseEvidence-Based CareNo Referral Required15+ Years Experience
Long Standing Pain

Chronic or long-standing pain commonly occurs when a mechanical, physiological or traumatic event is not addressed appropriately in the early stages. Over time, the pain becomes almost part of what your body and mind expect as normal behaviour.

We understand that chronic pain is a burden that affects your day-to-day life. Breaking the mould of expected pain is the most important step in recovery - and it is where most chronic pain treatment falls short.

Podiatrist consulting with a patient about chronic pain management
Save with your health fund

Claim your rebate on the spot. Walk out paying less.

HICAPS terminals at every clinic mean your private health rebate is processed instantly — you only pay the gap. No referral required, Medicare EPC and DVA accepted.

  • HICAPS at all clinics
  • Medicare EPC accepted
  • DVA accepted
  • No referral needed

Health funds we accept

AAMI
Medibank
Suncorp
Health Insurance
Frank
Bupa
HCF
Allianz

Plus all major HICAPS-affiliated funds. Bring your card, claim on the day.

Understanding Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can be dull, sharp or throbbing. Sometimes it appears intermittently and other times it is constant. It is not limited to one area of the body and can cascade to other unaffected areas if left untreated. Many people only seek help once the pain has already started spreading.

  • Persistent pain lasting weeks, months or years
  • Pain that fluctuates between dull aches and sharp episodes
  • Discomfort spreading to previously unaffected areas
  • Stiffness or reduced mobility in the feet, ankles or legs
  • Pain that impacts daily activities and quality of life
  • Frustration from treatments that have not provided lasting relief
Person experiencing foot and lower limb pain
Contributing Factors

Why Does Pain Become Chronic?

Chronic pain develops when an initial injury or condition is not managed effectively in the acute (early) stage. Over time, the nervous system adapts to the ongoing pain signals, making the condition harder to resolve with conventional methods alone.

01
Initial injury not treated early or appropriately
02
Nervous system adapting to pain as the new normal
03
Compensatory movement patterns creating secondary problems
04
Repeated cycles of re-injury from returning too soon
05
Psychological factors reinforcing pain perception
06
Multiple coexisting conditions compounding the problem
Assessment & Diagnosis

Your journey to returning to your best function always starts with a transparent conversation, thorough assessment and clear education alongside treatment. We need to understand the full picture - not just the pain, but the history behind it.

  • Detailed history of your pain journey and previous treatments
  • Comprehensive physical assessment
  • Biomechanical and movement pattern analysis
  • Identification of contributing and coexisting factors
Steve Singh consulting with a patient about their treatment plan

Why Choose MSP?

We combine clinical expertise with a patient-centered approach to get you back on your feet.

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Sports-Focused

Decades of combined experience treating foot, ankle, and movement concerns.

Evidence-Based Plan

Every plan is guided by proven research and tailored to your lifestyle.

Preventive Approach

We focus on identifying risks early to keep you moving comfortably.

Convenient Clinic Locations

Easily accessible clinics in Brighton, Richmond, and South Melbourne.

Collaborative Care

We work with your GP, physio, or coach for consistent recovery support.

Easy HICAPS Claims

Simple, instant health-fund claiming at every appointment.

Our Treatment Approach

Altering the nervous system's ability to read and react to pain is something we look at doing immediately to break the cycle of long-standing pain. Once we can change your body's normalised response to chronic pain, we implement more conventional treatment options.

External stimulus and sensory feedback exercises
Offloading devices and altered movement patterns
Manual therapy and targeted rehabilitation
Progressive return to function and activity
Self-Care Guide

Long-Term Management

Managing chronic pain is not just about treating the symptoms - it is about changing your relationship with pain and building lasting resilience. We encourage our patients every step of the way and equip you with the tools for ongoing self-management.

1

Understand your pain triggers and management strategies

2

Maintain a regular movement and exercise routine

3

Use prescribed exercises and self-care techniques consistently

4

Monitor for early warning signs of flare-ups

5

Stay in contact with your treatment team when needed

6

Focus on gradual, sustainable improvements over time

Consultation Fees & Rebates

Your first chronic pain appointment includes a comprehensive assessment and personalised treatment plan. Fees are discussed upfront, and our clinics accept most private health rebates, Medicare (with eligible referrals), TAC and WorkCover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Acute pain is a direct response to injury and typically resolves as the injury heals. Chronic pain persists beyond the normal healing period - often because the nervous system has adapted to interpret ongoing signals as pain. Treatment needs to address both the physical and neurological components.
Many chronic pain treatments focus solely on the physical symptoms without addressing the nervous system's adapted pain response. Our approach prioritises breaking the cycle of normalised pain first, then layering in conventional treatments for lasting results.
While every case is different, significant improvement is achievable for most patients. The goal is to reduce pain, restore function and equip you with long-term management strategies. Many patients experience meaningful relief and return to activities they had given up.
Treatment duration varies based on how long the pain has been present, its severity and your body's response to treatment. Some patients notice improvement within weeks, while others require a longer, graduated approach. We set realistic expectations from your first appointment.
No referral is needed. You can book directly with Melbourne Sports Podiatry at our Brighton, Richmond or South Melbourne clinics. We also work collaboratively with GPs and other specialists when needed.

Our Clinics

Three convenient locations across Melbourne. Choose the clinic closest to you.

Call: 1300 332 201
Brighton clinic

Brighton

110 Bay Street

Richmond clinic

Richmond

329 Lennox Street

South Melbourne clinic

South Melbourne

3/186 York St