Frequently Asked Questions

Q Can physiotherapy help back pain?

A Chartered and state registered physiotherapists are qualified to treat back pain, regardless of the cause of the dysfunction, i.e. joint, muscular, disc etc. See Conditions Treated.

Q Can physiotherapy help with whiplash?

A Physiotherapists are able to treat the multifaceted problems associated with whiplash. See Conditions Treated.

Q Is it worth my while seeing a physiotherapist if I have only sprained my ankle?

A Many people who sprain their ankles will develop "weak ankles", ie they go over on the ankle time and time again. This is because after the initial injury, muscles need to be strengthened and proprioceptors retrained. This can take time and effort but the results are usually worthwhile and a physiotherapist is able to provide a suitably progressive training programme to ensure full recovery.

Q I have swelling on my knee that has been there for ages, can physiotherapy help?

A Regardless of whether the injury is new or old, physiotherapy should be able to improve the symptoms. If the swelling is due to osteoarthritis, with accompanied Baker's cyst, the physiotherapist would be able to prevent deterioration of symptoms.

Q What can I expect when I see a physiotherapist?

A Normally some time will be spent on taking the history of your present problem and any associated problems, present or past. Then a functional assessment will be made. Following which a discussion on the most appropriate treatment will take place. See Treatments.

Q How long will this take?

A The first assessment will normally take about one hour. Follow up treatments tends to be slightly shorter, approximately 30 minutes. A full course of treatment to resolve a problem is dependent on how the individual reacts to treatment. Often one or two treatments will be enough, but if the problem has been there for a long time, it will take longer to resolve it.

Q If I feel I am not getting any better, what should I do?

A Tell the therapist. At times it may be necessary for further investigations to be carried out, X-rays, CAT scans or MRI scans. The therapist should be able to arrange them. Most physiotherapists also work closely with orthopaedic consultants and can usually arrange referrals for a second opinion.

Q How quickly can I expect to be seen?

A Normally within 12 hours. However, if you can only attend at certain times, it may take longer to find a suitable appointment time.

Q What is electrotherapy?

A Electrotherapy is the common name given to the electrical equipment used by physiotherapists such as ultrasound, interferential and laser. All chartered physiotherapists are trained in the use of electrotherapy. See Treatments for their application.

Marie Archer MCSP,SRP,OCPPP,ACPSM

VINE COTTAGE PHYSIOTHERAPY