Answering Commonly Asked Physiotherapy Questions

If you’ve never been to a physiotherapist before, it can be hard to know what to expect. What does it involve? How does it work? Is it likely to hurt? Taking that first step and booking an appointment can be daunting to the point of deterrence. The thing is, whether you’re recovering from an injury or trying to get the better of chronic pain, physio can really help. It’s a lot less invasive than surgery and steroid injections, and it can help to break you away from long-term reliance on pain meds. So, if you’re considering searching for physiotherapy in London, what do you need to know?

Key Takeaways

• Physiotherapy helps restore mobility, strength, and function through evidence-based treatments tailored to your specific needs.

• You don’t always need a referral to book a physiotherapy session.

• Common treatment techniques include manual therapy, exercise rehabilitation, electrotherapy, and education, as well as an increasingly wide range of contemporary treatments.

• Physiotherapy can support recovery from injury, surgery, and chronic conditions, as well as improve posture and performance.

• Consistency and communication with your physiotherapist are key to achieving the best results.
  

Answering Your Physiotherapy Questions

What exactly is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is intended to help people to restore movement and function when they are affected by injury, illness, or disability. It involves a combination of manual therapy, specific exercise programmes, education, and advice to promote recovery and prevent further problems. This isn’t just to treat pain or problems, but to find the root cause so you can find a long-term solution.

A physiotherapy clinic will typically provide treatments for a wide range of conditions, such as:

• Sports injuries – sprains, strains, ligament tears

• Back and neck pain

• Post-operative rehabilitation, such as after knee or hip surgery

• Chronic pain and arthritis

• Neurological conditions, including stroke or multiple sclerosis

• Work-related or postural pain
  

Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist?

You don’t need a referral to see a physiotherapist privately. However, it is worth noting that if you’re using private health insurance, your provider may require a GP referral for reimbursement. So, always check the terms of your policy before booking.

What happens during my first physiotherapy appointment?

You’ll begin physiotherapy with an assessment. This typically lasts around 45-60 minutes, and its aim is to help the physio to work out the most appropriate treatment plan. During your assessment, you can expect:

• Discussion of your medical history: You’ll talk about your symptoms, how long you’ve had them, and any relevant medical background.

• Physical assessment: Your physiotherapist will assess your posture, movement, joint mobility, strength, and flexibility to pinpoint the problem.

• Diagnosis and treatment plan: You’ll receive a clear explanation of your condition, what’s causing it, and a recommended plan for treatment, or a referral for further investigation if the cause is not clear.

• Initial treatment: Depending on your condition, you might begin treatment immediately, with manual therapy, stretches, or guided exercises.

• Home exercise programme: You’ll likely be given tailored exercises to continue between sessions, helping to speed up your recovery.

• At many physiotherapy clinics in London, your therapist may also use technology such as ultrasound, electrotherapy, or digital posture analysis to support diagnosis and treatment.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends entirely upon your personal needs. If you have a simple issue that can be addressed with stretches, you may be fine having just one or two appointments. For more complex conditions, your treatment may take several weeks, or even months, depending on the frequency of your sessions and your commitment to your home exercises. Chronic pain conditions and certain surgeries can take longer to recover from. Either way, your physiotherapist will usually be able to provide you with a rough timeline after your initial assessment, and update you as you go along.  

What techniques do physiotherapists use?

There’s a whole range of treatment techniques used in physiotherapy clinics, and your treatment will be tailored to your specific needs. So, you may experience:

• Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques like joint mobilisations, soft tissue massage, and trigger point therapy to improve mobility and reduce pain.

• Exercise rehabilitation: Structured exercise programmes to restore strength, balance, and flexibility.

• Electrotherapy: The use of ultrasound, TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation), or shockwave therapy to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation.

• Postural correction: Advice and exercises to improve alignment and prevent recurring strain, particularly for office workers or athletes.

• Contemporary approaches: These include the use of technology, such as VALD ForceDecks for more accurate assessment, and Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training.

• Education and self-management: Helping you understand your condition and empowering you with tools to manage symptoms independently.
  

Each physiotherapy clinic in London may specialise in different techniques, so it’s worth checking what services are available before booking.

Can physiotherapy help with chronic pain?

Yes. Physiotherapy is one of the most effective non-invasive treatments for chronic pain. Unlike short-term fixes, physiotherapists address the underlying causes, such as muscle imbalances, joint stiffness, nerve irritation, or poor biomechanics, to help you regain control over your body. Techniques like graded exercise therapy, relaxation strategies, and pain education are used to retrain your nervous system and reduce sensitivity. Over time, this can significantly decrease pain and improve function.

Is physiotherapy only for sports injuries?

Not at all. While many athletes benefit from physiotherapy, it’s equally valuable for people who prefer a more sedate lifestyle.

Common non-sports-related conditions treated at a physiotherapy clinic include:

• Sciatica or lower back pain from sitting too long

• Shoulder or neck tension caused by desk work

• Recovery after pregnancy or surgery

• Age-related stiffness or arthritis

• Balance issues and falls prevention
  

So, whether you’re an athlete, office worker, or retiree, physiotherapy can be tailored to meet your individual needs.

What should I wear to my appointment?

Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is usually best; something that allows your physiotherapist to assess your movement and access the affected area.

So, if you have knee pain, it’s a good idea to wear shorts. For back problems, choose a loose or stretchy waistband and a t-shirt. Trainers or flat shoes are also a good idea for gait and balance evaluations.

How much does physiotherapy cost in London?

Prices vary depending on the clinic’s location, the physiotherapist’s experience, and the length of your session. As a general guide an initial assessment is around £125. Follow-up sessions can be £90-£135, depending on the length of the appointment. Many London physiotherapy clinics also offer packages or discounts for block bookings, which can be more cost-effective if you require multiple sessions.

How do I choose the right physiotherapy clinic in London?

Choosing the right clinic can make a huge difference in your recovery journey. Here’s what to look for:

• Qualified and experienced physiotherapists: Check that your therapist is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP).

• Specialised services: If you have a specific issue, such as sports injuries, post-operative rehab, or women’s health, find a clinic with specialists in that area.

• Positive patient reviews: Online testimonials and Google reviews can give insight into real patient experiences.

• Location and accessibility: Choose a clinic that’s convenient for regular visits. Many physiotherapy clinics in London are located near major transport hubs.

• Personalised care: A good physiotherapist will listen to your goals, explain your diagnosis clearly, and tailor your treatment to your lifestyle.
  

How long will it take to see results?

Every case is different, but many people start noticing improvement within their first few physiotherapy sessions. But progress is often very dependent upon patients following their exercise plan consistently. So, results are often in your hands.

Factors that affect progress include:

• Severity and duration of the condition

• Your overall fitness and activity level

• Adherence to home exercises

• Lifestyle factors such as stress, sleep, and posture
  

Consistency is key. Physiotherapy works best when both therapist and patient are actively involved in the process.

Physiotherapy offers far more than just pain relief; it empowers you to move better, feel stronger, and live more comfortably. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a long-term condition, or simply aiming to improve your posture and mobility, working with a qualified physiotherapist can be life-changing.

If you’re considering physiotherapy in London, take the time to research your options and choose a reputable clinic with experienced practitioners who understand your goals. With the right guidance and commitment, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier, more active life.

Get in touch with Ultra Sports Clinic to find out how we can help you.