FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is an allied health profession involving the diagnosis and treatment of physical ailments by various ‘physical’ means.  Treatments may be ‘hands-on’ in nature but should always involve exercise, education and promotion of patient independence.

What types of problems can Physiotherapy help with?

Physiotherapy can help with all types of muscle, joint or ligament injury as well as longer term conditions.

When should I see a Physiotherapist?

Everyone gets pain from time to time.  We are all used to dealing with it and getting on with life.  A good rule of thumb is that if you have pain or restriction that is interfering with your enjoyment of life and is not settling as you would expect then something needs to change.  A thorough assessment should identify this and start you on the road to recovery.

What might treatment involve?

Treatment may involve ‘hands-on’ manual therapy including mobilisation/manipulation, soft tissue techniques, taping etc.  There are lots of techniques like this that can decrease pain in the short term.  However, to manage your problem properly in the longer term, you will need to embark on a self-management exercise program.

How many treatments will I need?

Within 3-4 sessions you should notice a significant improvement. If that is not the case then we will discuss other options to help you on the road to recovery.

How is my treatment funded?

1. Patients may self-pay.  Prices and services are listed here.  Payment can be made by cash, card, Apple Pay or bank transfer (sorry, we no longer accept cheques).

2. Private Medical Insurance.  We are covered by all major insurers. Please contact your insurer first to check your cover and whether you have an excess on the policy.  Your insurer may require that you pay the excess to us.

Do I need to see my GP first?

In general, no.  However, some insurers will require you to have a GP referral.  Please check with them first.

Can I bring someone with me?

Certainly.  You may bring someone with you to act as a chaperone, assist you with mobility, be another set of ears, help you remember important points etc. or just out of interest.  Patients under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

What should I wear?

You should wear something that you are comfortable in and allows unrestricted movement. It is also important that the problem area is visible. Eg. a vest for a neck, shoulder or upper limb problem or shorts for a lower limb problem.  Your dignity will always be respected.

Will I get treatment in the first session?

Yes.  The aim of the first session is to identify the problem, decrease your pain and/or improve your movement and start a plan on how to progress this further.

What if you can’t help me?

After assessment, it may be the case that Physiotherapy is not the right treatment for you.  If that is the case, we will discuss the reasons for this with you fully and advise you how to proceed.  This may involve asking your GP to refer you to a Specialist Consultant.  This would only be done with your informed consent.  We have strong links with the top Consultants in the local area.

What if I can't attend?

We would request that you give at least 24hrs notice so we can make the appointment available to someone else.