FAQ
Q: What exactly does a Chartered Physiotherapist do?
A: A chartered physiotherapist will treat injury and disease by correcting and improving the body’s own mechanism, without the use of drugs or medication.
Q: What sort of treatments do Chartered Physiotherapists offer?
A: The modern chartered physiotherapist uses a wide range of skills including manipulation, acupuncture, mobilisation, massage and exercise, often aided by the use of sophisticated electronic and electrical equipment – all designed to help in relieving pain, restoring function and promote healing.
Q: Do I need to be referred for treatment by a doctor?
A: You may consult a chartered physiotherapist without a doctor’s referral, but with your consent contact will usually be maintained between your GP and the physiotherapist. Chartered physiotherapists work in close co-operation with GP’s in much the same way as consultants do, and this relationships is for the ultimate benefit to you the patient.
Q: How long will the treatments last?
A: The initial consultation lasts 30 minutes and will consist of a thorough assessment and a treatment if time allows.
Subsequent follow on treatments will take 30 minutes.
Q: Do I need a chaperon?
A: You are welcome to bring a chaperon during the initial assessment and treatments if you wish.
Q: Will the assessment or treatment hurt?
A: Our aim is to alleviate your pain. Most physiotherapy treatments are relatively pain free. However, to obtain an accurate diagnosis, a thorough assessment can occasionally irritate existing symptoms. You may experience some soreness after your treatment.
Q: What should I wear?
A: It is important to wear comfortable clothing for your initial assessment to allow you to move freely to perform the movements the physiotherapist will need to observe. You may need to undress for parts of the assessment to enable the physiotherapist to see the area affected. For example, if you are coming with an ankle of knee problem it would be advisable to wear or bring shorts.
Q: What if I need to see a specialist?
A: The physiotherapist treating you will discuss with you if they feel it is appropriate for you to see a specialist, they will talk to you and review the reasons for and potential benefits of a specialist opinion. You may be referred to a specialist for further investigation (MRI scan/X ray).
Q: Will the cost of physiotherapy be covered by my medical insurance?
A: Usually, I am a Chartered Physiotherapists and registered with major healthcare insurers (more are coming on line). Please check with your insurance company before starting treatment, since they may need to authorise treatment prior to its commencement.
Q: How do I know if my physiotherapist is fully qualified?
A: All Chartered Physiotherapists have undergone extensive training and have completed the necessary academic and clinical examinations in order for them to practice. Their names will be suffixed by MCSP and will be members of the Health Professions Council (HPC), which proves that they are state registered.
Q: Can a physiotherapist manipulate?
A: All Chartered Physiotherapists with the appropriate postgraduate training are allowed to perform manipulations.