Frequently asked questions
How quickly will I be seen for my first appointment?
We aim to make an appointment for you to see a physiotherapist within 48 hours, often sooner.
What to expect during your first consultation?
The physiotherapist will take a full medical history, and will discuss details of your present symptoms, as well as any previous symptoms. You will have the opportunity to discuss related work, sport or recreational activities, and your needs for rehabilitation. A thorough examination will be performed in order to establish the diagnosis, and to identify any factors that may have predisposed you to developing your symptoms. Such factors may include faulty posture, muscle tightness or weakness, or poor exercise technique. The physiotherapist will discuss the nature of the problem with you and plan a personalised treatment programme. Treatment will usually be commenced at the first session.
What do I need to bring with me?
You may wish to bring a pair of shorts / loose trousers if you have a back or lower limb problem; a vest top for back or upper limb problems. Where appropriate, bring running / walking shoes for treadmill gait analysis. You are more then welcome to bring a friend / relative to accompany you to your appointment.
How long does an appointment last?
Initial consultations will last up to 30mins. Any subsequent treatment sessions last up to 30 minutes.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
A referral from a GP or Consultant is not necessary. Self referrals are welcome.
Can I use my private health insurance cover towards treatment?
Yes, all providers including BUPA and AXA PPP. It always advisable to check with your provider that they will cover your course of treatment with us. They will want to know that we are HPC registered.
I am over 16 and under 18, can I make an appointment?
You are more than welcome to make an appointment if you are within this age group. However, you must come in attendance with either a relation or friend over the age of 18 themselves.
I am under 16 years of age, can I make an appointment?
You will need your parent / guardian to make the appointment for you, as well as having them in attendance with you at the appointment.
What if I need to cancel?
We appreciate that sometimes appointments may need to be rearranged. Should you need to cancel an appointment the more notice you can give the better. A cancellation with less than 24 hours notice will incur a 'first warning'. If you were to 'late cancel' again we would charge you a full £30.00 session fee.
What if I fail to attend?
Failure to attend without prior notice will incur a 'first warning'. If you were to fail to attend again we would charge you a full £30.00 session fee.
Can I be seen by a female?
Whilst we will make every effort for you to be seen by a female therapist, we cannot guarantee this. However, you are more than welcome to bring a friend / relation to sit in on the session with you. With sufficient notice, we can arrange a chaperone.
What if I need a letter writing
Letters to your GP/Employer/Occupational Health Manager/ Human Resources Manager/Sports Coach etc, cost £15. These will typically be sent in the post to you within 1-2 days upon their request.
What if Physiotherapy treatment isn’t working?
On the rare occasions when Physiotherapy treatment is found not to be helping, your therapist will discuss the options available to you. It may be that a different Physiotherapy treatment approach is attempted, or further interventions / treatment beyond Physiotherapy may be indicated. Examples may include a medication review by your GP, a steroid injection from your GP, referral to x-ray, referral to a Consultant, and so on.
Why choose a Chartered Physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists have been trained to an exceptional standard in assessment and treatment skills. We undergo 1000 hours of clinical practice whilst undergraduates studying at University for a BSc in Physiotherapy. We are members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and as such are obliged to work to their code of conduct. As Chartered Physiotherapists, we also have to be registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC). Again this is to ensure that we are who we say we are, and that you as the patient know that you are being seen by a fully-qualified, regulated and insured Physiotherapist.
