Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy & Sports Therapy

You do not need a referral for a physiotherapy appointment. We work as autonomous practitioners and are often referred to as ‘First Contact Physiotherapists’. This means we are fully qualified and experienced at assessing patients in primary care with MSK conditions (suspected or diagnosed) without the need for another medical professional such as a doctor.

For self referral, you can initiate your own physiotherapy appointment by making a call to our contact centre and providing basic information about your health issues.

When you phone to book the appointment, our contact centre team will guide you to the most appropriate member of the team. All of our experts treat MSK conditions, but we also have different specialties.

All of our physiotherapists are recognised by the private medical insurance companies.

Please bring along any medical letters or diagnostic scan results relating to your current issue. If a scan or x-ray has been performed elsewhere, we can ask for it to be sent to our system.

If you intend to use private medical insurance to fund physiotherapy, please provide the authorisation and policy number and are aware of any limitations e.g. number of sessions authorised.

During your initial consultation, a thorough assessment will identify the cause of your problem and set treatment goals. You’ll provide a medical history followed by a physical exam. The appointment includes a clinical examination, explanation of findings, advice, and, if suitable, treatment. The inclusion of occupational therapists in our team as part of a multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care. You’ll receive a clear treatment plan to optimise recovery and function.

Referral for diagnostic investigation

An appointment with an advanced practitioner in physiotherapy (APP) assesses musculoskeletal conditions that may need further diagnostic investigation, like MRI, radiograph, or ultrasound. A formal referral is required before imaging. Our APPs can assess conditions and, if needed, refer you to our onsite diagnostic imaging suite. Images are assessed, results explained, and specific recommendations made, possibly including specialist referral or rehabilitation.

The APP takes a full medical history and performs a physical exam. Based on symptoms and radiological guidelines, they advise on the most appropriate investigation and inform you of any associated risks. We collaborate with Consultant Radiologists, Orthopaedic Consultants, and General Practitioners to ensure patients are prepared for specialist appointments and receive expert guidance on care progression. Results are usually available within 48 hours, after which you’ll be contacted to discuss findings and treatment options.

Gait analysis and bespoke orthotics

Using clinical examination and scanning techniques, we assess gait patterns, providing information on posture and balance. Our specialists analyse movement patterns and muscle recruitment to enhance function and strength. We use advanced gait scanning for 2D and 3D analysis.

Data from assessment and gait analysis help develop rehabilitation protocols and assess orthotics’ benefits for optimising movement and alleviating pain.

You will go away with a plan of action that you have agreed with your physiotherapist. You may have a new exercise programme or a course of treatment, you may be referred to another specialist or not need another appointment at all. We will guide you through this with shared decision making.

Our private clinic provides tailored care and is affiliated with medical insurers for enhanced patient support.

We can send a letter to your NHS GP or another medical professional to keep them informed of your appointments, if required.

At your follow-up appointment, we will check your progress since starting treatment and make sure your treatment goals are at the centre of the plan.

Preventing injuries

Preventing injuries is an essential aspect of MSK physiotherapy. By identifying potential risks and taking proactive measures, individuals can reduce their likelihood of injury. Some strategies include:

• Engaging in regular exercise and physical activity
• Maintaining good posture and body mechanics
• Using proper lifting techniques
• Wearing appropriate footwear and protective gear
• Stretching and warming up before exercise
• Listening to your body and taking regular breaks