A physiotherapist or a chiropractor deals with human function and help people to achieve their full physical potential using scientific methods such as manual therapy (hands-on manipulation/massage/deep tissue release/mobilisation), exercise and education.
 Physiotherapy is a health profession that aims to rehabilitate people following injury, improve movement disorders, and restore normal function. more info on our treatments

Physiotherapy maximises potential, whether its elite high-performance sport or basic activities of daily living such as getting up from a chair.

Physiotherapists work independently to assess, diagnose and treat injuries. Differential diagnosis excludes or includes the possibility of pain arising from other medical conditions and investigates the need for referring onto other medical professionals.

Physiotherapists are movement specialists with a high level of medical understanding, therapy skills and training. The training involves University degree level study, in medical science subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and psychology. A wide variety of treatment techniques are studied.

What is the difference between physios, osteopaths, sports therapists and chiropractors?
Registration with the HCPC is an important distinguishing factor since, unlike other professions. Physiotherapy is one of 16 professions regulated by law by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Here’s what the HCPC means to you:

Physiotherapy is a professional title that is protected by law, as a means of protecting the public accessing health care.

• It helps you distinguish between regulated and non-regulated professionals.
• It’s a reassurance that we are properly qualified, and genuine health and care professionals.
• Demonstrates that we meet set standards.

Here’s a simple example.

You wouldn’t go to a doctor if you did not believe they were a genuine doctor. You can’t call yourself a physio unless you are a physio. It’s law.  So check us out on the HCPC register. We are fully insured by our membership of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy

Due to the medical nature of Physiotherapy training, physios are often found in hospitals, and this training gives them the ability to distinguish your symptoms from other medical conditions. Continuous professional development is compulsory under the HCPC.

How is a Sports Physiotherapist different from other physiotherapists?

Whilst many clinics offer sports injury treatment, the level of specialisation differs. The Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Sports and Exercise Medicine (ACPSEM) accredits its members through a Continuing Professional Development pathway to ensure that high levels of practice are met and maintained. Click here for a link to Physios in Sports website where a register of accredited sports physios is held.

A sports physiotherapist demonstrates advanced competencies in the areas of:

• Contributing to the enhancement of sports performance
• Adaptation of rehabilitation and training interventions, for the purposes of preventing injury, restoring optimal function
• Promotion of safe physical activity participation.
• Provision of advice in athletes of all ages and abilities, while ensuring a high standard of professional and ethical practice.

Do I need to see my GP first?

No, Physiotherapy is a first contact health profession. That means that we can assess and diagnose your pain, whilst being able to ascertain whether you need further investigation or not, and so we are able to refer you on to other medical professionals if needed.

I am in a lot of pain, do I need a scan first?

A detail clinical examination by an expert physiotherapist will determine the source of most musculoskeletal problems, without the need for a scan. There are a few instances where scans are necessary and then we will write a letter referring you for further investigation.