Frequently Asked Questions

What can physiotherapy help with?

Our physiotherapists have experience with treating a wide range of range of musculoskeletal conditions (problems arising from the muscles, nerves or skeleton). We treat people of all ages, including children and the elderly. Here are just some of the conditions that we treat:

• Back and neck pain (including nerve and disc problems)

• Knee pain (including surgeries such as ACL reconstruction)

• Osteoarthritis

• Tennis/Golfers Elbow

• Fractures and post operative rehab

• Postural problems

• Shoulder pain

• Plantar fasciitis

• Jaw pain and locking

If you aren't sure if we can help you, please get in touch and one of our physiotherapists will be happy to advise you.

What do I need to wear to my appointment?

Please wear comfortable clothing that you feel able to move in easily. Your physiotherapist may ask you to remove items of clothing to assess your problem, so you may want to bring shorts for a lower limb problem, or wear a strap top or sports bra for an upper limb or spinal problem.

What can I expect on my first appointment?

The first appointment consists of a discussion about your problem, which will include questions such as how and when it started, what aggravates the pain and your medical history. We then complete an assessment, which tends to involve movement and strength tests, and touching the area in order to diagnose the pain. We create a tailored treatment plan for you, and we aim to start on some “hands on” treatment on your first session too.

How much do appointments cost and how long are they?

If you are a new patient or an existing patient of ours with a new problem or injury, you will need a New Patient Appointment, which costs £62. This is up to 45 minutes, including time for your physio to write up your treatment programme. Any follow-up appointments cost £56 and are 30 minutes long, although we find some people need either 45 minutes or 1 hour follow-up appointments if they have a complex case or multiple injuries. These are £71 and £82 respectively. We also have the option for Sports Massage, which is £40 for 30 minutes.

How many sessions will I need?

This can depend on several factors, such as how long you have had the problem, how severe your symptoms are and what your goals are for recovery.

A standard course of physiotherapy usually lasts between 3-6 sessions, but this can vary widely. Someone with mild symptoms who is just looking for some advice and exercise may only need to attend for 1-2 sessions, whereas someone who has been in pain for a long time, or is recovering from major surgery may require treatment for several months.

What’s the difference between NHS and private physio?

Many private physiotherapists have worked in the NHS, or currently work in the NHS alongside their private role. There is no difference in qualifications. In the NHS, time is often very limited and so generally treatment plans are restricted to just 1-2 sessions. In private practice, there is more time to try “hands on” techniques such as massage, manipulation and acupuncture, and sessions can continue for as long as you need.

Do I need to see a GP first for a referral?

No, if you are self referring you can come straight to a physiotherapist without seeing a GP. Some private health insurance requires you to be seen by one of their GP’s before commencing physiotherapy, so check your policy before attending the clinic.

Can you see patients with health insurance?

Yes, we are listed with most health insurance providers, including Bupa, AXA, Vitality and AVIVA. Always check with your insurer before you book an appointment with us, and we may require your membership number or authorisation code (if you have one) before we can treat you.

Is there parking?

Yes, there is a free car park outside the clinic.

What if I need to cancel?

We require at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. You can reschedule online, using the link in your booking email. You can cancel your appointment by calling us on 01242 360036. Any cancellations with less than 24 hours notice will result in a 50% cancellation fee, or 100% for non-attendance – please see our cancellation policy for more details.

Can you see children?

Yes, we have experience with treating children’s musculoskeletal conditions. If you are unsure, please get in touch with us so we can advise you.

Do you have HCPC and CSP registration?

All of our physiotherapists are registered with both of the above professional bodies.

Can I stop treatment at any time?

Yes, you are able to stop your treatment at any time. However, we recommend that you complete the course of treatment that your physiotherapist plans for you, in order to ensure a long term benefit. If you feel that the treatment is not achieving the results you are after, it’s important to speak to your physiotherapist about this. There may be other treatment options which could be more beneficial for you. Our physiotherapists are also able to refer you for further investigations or procedures such as steroid injections if your symptoms are not improving.