F.A.Q. about physiotherapy at 10 Bridge
What exactly does a chartered physiotherapist do?
A chartered physiotherapist will treat injury and disease by correcting and improving the body’s own mechanism, without the use of drugs or medication.
What sort of treatments do chartered physiotherapists offer?
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 promoting healing.
Do I need to be referred for treatment by a doctor?
You may consult a chartered physiotherapist without a doctor’s referral, but 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.
How long will the treatments last?
The initial consultation lasts 45 minutes and will consist of a thorough assessment and a treatment if time allows.
The follow on treatments will take 30 minutes.
Do I need a chaperon?
You are welcome to bring a chaperon during the initial assessment and treatments if you wish. However, our team of physiotherapists includes both male and female therapists so you can specify your preference when making an appointment.
Will the assessment or treatment hurt?
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.
What should I wear?
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.
What if I need to see a specialist?
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).
Will the cost of physiotherapy be covered by my medical insurance?
Yes, all our team are Chartered Physiotherapists and registered with all of the major healthcare insurers. Please check with your insurance company before starting treatment, since they may need to authorise treatment prior to its commencement.
Is physiotherapy treatment appropriate for back and neck problems?
Or is it only useful for muscle injuries.
At 10 Bridge our chartered physiotherapists are qualified to treat all spinal problems.
How do I know if my physiotherapist is fully qualified?
All chartered physiotherapists have undergone extensive training and have completed the necessary academic 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.
Can a physiotherapist manipulate?
All chartered physiotherapists with the appropriate postgraduate training are allowed to perform manipulations.
Payment
All patients are requested to pay for their treatment at the time of their consultation. 10 Bridge is pleased to accept credit / debit and American Express cards as well as cash and cheque payments.
10 Bridge is recognised by all major insurance companies, including AXA PPP, BUPA Health Services, Norwich Union and Standard Life. If you are unsure as to whether 10 Bridge is recognised by your medical insurance company please contact the clinic for further advice.
If you wish to claim treatment costs through your private health insurance, please contact your provider and if necessary bring in a claim form / and or policy details. 10 Bridge will invoice your insurance providers on the completion of your treatment.
Treatments
We use a wide range of manual techniques such as mobilisations, massage and exercise therapy aided by sophisticated electronic equipment. Some of our staff are also qualified to use acupuncture for pain relief in conjunction with other physiotherapy techniques. Our extensive state of the art Technogym rehabilitation gymnasium allows are therapists to ensure a complete package of care is offered to each client. Our aim is to return you to the highest level of function possible using appropriate exercise therapy and expert advice for on-going home management.
Assessment
Before you receive any treatment or advice, one of our chartered physiotherapists will discuss your condition with you and carefully examine the area and nature of your problem. From there, we can decide whether physiotherapy is appropriate and then formulate a treatment programme tailored to your needs. A full assessment with treatment plan takes approximately 45 minutes.
Treatment
Follow up treatment sessions, after the initial assessment, will take approximately 30 minutes. These sessions may be totally clinical in nature (taking place within the treatment room), or they may contain an element of exercise therapy (using some time in the rehabilitation gymnasium) or even towards the end of the treatment plan, be completely exercise based.
