Why expats are more prone to physical complaints
By Robert Arkesteijn
At Fysiocity, expats in Amsterdam can access physiotherapy to address the physical complaints that often arise when adapting to new routines, workplaces, and daily movement patterns. Their expertise helps internationals understand the Dutch system and seek timely care.
Living as an expat in Amsterdam can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it often comes with unexpected physical challenges. New routines, unfamiliar workplaces, long hours behind a laptop, and the constant movement that comes with urban cycling can put strain on your body.
Many internationals wait too long before seeking help, often because they assume the issue will resolve on its own, or simply because they are unfamiliar with how physiotherapy works in the Netherlands.
Understanding the system, and the importance of early treatment, can prevent small issues from becoming long-term limitations.
Cultural habits that influence expat health
Adjusting to Dutch lifestyle patterns can contribute to physical strain. Many expats in the Netherlands cycle more frequently than they did in their home country, often on city bikes that are not ergonomically ideal.
On top of this, Dutch workplaces are increasingly screen-based, leading to prolonged sitting. These lifestyle shifts, combined with relocation stress, can affect your posture, movement patterns and overall wellbeing.
Why early physiotherapy makes a difference
A common misconception among expats is that physiotherapy is only needed for serious injuries. In reality, seeking physiotherapy early can significantly shorten recovery time.
Even when discomfort is mild, early intervention can help identify harmful movement patterns, prevent compensatory behaviour, improve mobility, reduce inflammation, and provide reassurance.
Understanding the Dutch system: No referral needed
One significant advantage of physiotherapy in the Netherlands is the Direct Access system. Since 2006, patients have not needed a GP referral to see a physiotherapist.
For expats used to waiting lists or insurance hurdles, this offers refreshingly simple access to care.
What to expect during your first physiotherapy session
Your first session typically includes a screening and assessment, followed by treatment and personalised exercises. While manual techniques such as soft tissue work or mobilisation may be used, Dutch clinics increasingly emphasise exercise-based rehabilitation for long-term results.
Why waiting makes recovery harder
Most injuries are considered “self-limiting”, meaning the body can heal itself, but not always efficiently. Pain often triggers protective movement patterns that can cause tension elsewhere. For expats juggling demanding jobs and social obligations, these issues can accumulate quickly.
Physiotherapy as preventive care
Physiotherapy is also a form of preventive care. Regular check-ins can improve posture, prevent overuse injuries, support stress management, and improve vitality. Many clinics are integrated into gyms and wellness centres, making maintenance convenient.
Finding the right physiotherapist in Amsterdam
Expats often benefit from clinics familiar with international needs: English-speaking therapists, flexible hours, and experience with global insurance plans. A search for “physiotherapy Amsterdam” or “physio nearby” usually reveals many suitable options.
Prevention is key
Physiotherapy in the Netherlands is accessible and effective, especially when pursued early. Whether resolving back pain, recovering from injury or maintaining overall wellbeing, early care prevents small problems from becoming long-term issues.
With Fysiocity’s guidance, expats can prevent minor aches from developing into long-term limitations and maintain a healthy, active life in the Netherlands. Get in touch with Fysiocity today to start your recovery early and stay ahead of future physical complaints.
Arkesteijn – who was always passionate about sport, exercise and health - studied Physiotherapy in Amsterdam after completing the CIOS in Arnhem. He founded FysioCity, a collective of ten physiotherapists that works from early in the morning until late in the evening. Arkesteijn keeps himself fit with training sessions in the gym, and of course cycling through the city every day. “Wherever I go, I see things through the eyes of a physiotherapist. Sometimes I have to restrain myself - it’s tempting to give people a quick piece of advice. I admit that I suffer from professional deformation in that sense. It’s a delicate balance, the difference between waking up in pain and waking up fit is often a small detail.”Read more