Q. What happens at the first appointment?
A. A Chartered Physiotherapist will carry out an assessment of your problem and he/she will ask questions about how your problem started and what symptoms you are having. They will then perform a physical examination identifying which structures are involved and make a diagnosis.
Your physiotherapist will discuss this with you and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. If liason with your GP or other medical practitioner is required, the physio will help you do this or do it on your behalf.
A. In most cases, there is time at the initial assessment to include treatment and self-management advice so you can start taking control of your own problem and have the confidence that you are doing the right things.
A. You will be asked to undress so that the physiotherapist can make an accurate assessment of your problem. For shoulder, hip, neck and back problems this may mean undressing to your underwear, so please wear something that you are comfortable in. You may choose to bring your own t-shirt and shorts if you have an arm or leg problem.
A. During the assessment and treatments the physiotherapist will ask you to report any pain or sensitivity. Sometimes patients experience a reaction to treatment such as soreness but this is not always the case. The physiotherapist will tell you whether this is likely to happen and will explain why this can be a normal, healthy tissue response.
Q. Do I need to consult my doctor before starting treatment?
A. If you are paying for your own treatment, there is no need to see your GP first. However, under some Health Insurance policies you must see a Medical Practitioner (GP or Consultant) first, otherwise your treatment may not be covered by the policy. If the physiotherapist requires further investigations or requires further information they will liaise with your GP on your behalf.
Q. How long are the sessions and what is the cost?
A. We spend around one hour with you at the initial assessment and this costs £40.00. Follow up sessions are £34.00 and last approximately 30 minutes.
See "Student" and "What we do" pages for other fees related to discounted rates and medico-legal work. Occasionally we may suggest a “double” follow up session (1 hour) if the problem you have is complex; we need extra time to complete a successful treatment or if you have travelled a considerable distance to see us.
Q. How many treatments will I need?
A. At the assessment/initial consultation the physiotherapist will discuss a treatment plan with you and talk about possible treatment goals. The number of treatments needed to achieve a successful outcome will depend on certain factors such as the severity and nature of the problem, how long you have had it for, patients lifestyle and age/general "wellness," and at any time talk about treatment progress and probable number of sessions that may be required.
A. Yes. You are welcome to bring someone with you to any of the appointments. This helps you to remember what has been said during the session as we will be talking about diagnosis, treatment option and details of planned treatment and self-management ideas. We suggest all young people under the age of 16 are accompanied by an adult.
It is better if two people hear the information etc. and then they can go away and discuss it together.