Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions regarding your visit to Physio Goals can be found here. If your question isn't here - no problem! Just give us a call or email and we can put your mind at ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Click on a question to reveal the answer.
+ What is physiotherapy and do I need it?
Think of physiotherapy or "physio" as a body MOT. If you have pain or stiffness in your muscles or joints, your physiotherapist will work with you to eliminate it with advice, education, hands on treatment and exercise.
Not sure if its a physio/chiropractor/osteopath you need? No problem. Feel free to give us a call and chat to our physio, Alix. She can discuss your problems and advise you if physio is appropriate. Worst case scenario? You pop in and after an assessment the physio feels you require a different service. We will point you in the right direction and there will be no charge!
+ What is the difference between the physio at the hospital and private physio?
Nothing! A physiotherapist studies at a degree level and completes 1000 clinical hours of training. After which they can specailise in:
Neurological (stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's)
Neuromusculoskeletal (back pain, whiplash associated disorder, sports injuries, arthritis)
Cardiovascular (chronic heart disease, rehabilitation after heart attack)
Respiratory (asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis).
We are specialised in MSK or neuromusculoskeletal problems. You don't need a refferal to see us and there are no waiting lists.
+ What should I wear to my appointments?
Your clinician will need to see the area that you are having a problem with, therefore clothing that allows this is ideal. For example, if you’re coming for neck pain, then a vest top would be ideal. Shorts are always best if you have any leg problems.
If your Therapist has to ask you to remove any clothing, this will be kept to the necessary minimum; privacy will be given and a towel provided.
+ I'm paying for my own treatment, when is this taken?
Payment for your treatment will be due on the day of your appointment. We accept all major cards. We do not currently accept cash or cheque payments.
+ I have private medical health insurance, can I use this to pay for my treatment?
Physio Goals ltd are registered with AXA, Aviva and Vitality. Always speak to your insurance company first to make sure that the type of treatment you require is covered by your policy.
If you would like us to bill your insurer please make sure that you have the following information to give to us when you come for your first appointment:
Name of Insurer
Membership/Policy Number
Details of any Excess
Treatment Limitations (many insurers limit the number of treatment sessions they will pay for)
Authorisation Code
We will make every effort to ensure that your account is processed by your insurer however, it is your responsibility to ensure that the claim meets all the necessary criteria set down in your policy document.
If your insurance company does not settle your claim within 60 days of your appointment or there is a shortfall, then the liability falls to the patient to settle the account directly. We reserve the right to charge you and take payment for all unsettled appointments at our standard self-funding rate.
+ How many sessions will I need?
Good question! It is difficult to say how many sessions you will need but in your initial assessment your physiotherapist will discuss general rehabilitation and healing times for your issue, so you will have a better idea after that discussion. They can then put a suitable plan in place that works for you. You may only need one!
+ Does your clinic have disabled access?
The clinic is all one level but there is a small lip to naviagte when entering through the front door. If you use a wheelchair or have any special access requirements, please call us when you are ready to book your appointment so we can check we have appropriate access for you.
+ Can I bring someone with me to my appointments?
Absolutely! Feel free to bring someone with you to your appointments. Please limit this to 1-2 people otherwise the treatment room can get a bit crowded.
Should you require a chaperone, please let us know upon booking your appointment prior to your appointment.
COVID UPDATE: Unfortunately, we are unable to admit more than one person into the clinic room with the physio at one time. If you are a minor, require translation or a carer then please call the clinic so we that can get arrange your visit safely.
+ Do you treat children?
We treat ages 12 +. Should your child require physiotherapy below this age we suggest contacting their GP and requesting a paediatric physiotherapy referral.
+ What can I expect from an online consultation?
Your physiotherapist will first ask you some questions to get a deeper understanding of your injury and symptoms, your lifestyle and your goals. This is followed by a physical examination.
The physical examination will consist of two parts:
Your physio will demonstrate specific movement tests over Zoom and then ask you to repeat them. The tests are similar to the ones used in clinic and will help to establish what structures you have injured as well as test your muscle strength, flexibility and control.
She will then guide you through a palpation examination and get you to examine different parts of your body by hand to distinguish between different ligaments, muscles and bones.
Your physiotherapist will use the information to provide you with a diagnosis of your injury. She will then compile a detailed treatment plan specific to your needs and send you a personalised video exercise programme to aid your rehabiliation.