Physiotherapy – An Overview of Self Referral

What is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a health profession that uses physical methods such as exercise, massage, hydrotherapy and manipulation to treat people suffering from conditions affecting their movement and causing pain.

Physiotherapists aim to help manage pain, improve mobility, restore functional ability and prevent future injury or disability. They may provide treatment in hospital, clinic or community settings. There are options for self referral and by using your medical insurance.

The Carter & George Practice is a private clinic that operates on a self referral basis.

What are the Benefits of Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy can help improve movement, reduce pain and restore normal function. It can also be used to prevent injury by helping people understand how to move safely and effectively.

Physiotherapy is often recommended following surgery or injury because it helps speed up recovery times, allowing patients to return to their daily activities as quickly as possible.

What Common Conditions can be Treated with Physiotherapy?

Common conditions that can be treated with physiotherapy include back and neck pain, sports injuries, arthritis, joint stiffness and sprains.

Physiotherapists may also provide treatment for postural problems, respiratory issues such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), neurological conditions such as stroke or multiple sclerosis (MS).

At The Carter & George Practice, we specialise in MSK Physiotherapy (muscles/joints/tendon/sports), however we have a network of experts we can refer you to if we are unable to help.

Because of the self referral process, you can usually access a physiotherapy service quickly.

Type of Physiotherapy Treatments:

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is a type of physical therapy that involves using hands-on techniques to manage and alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, promote tissue healing and improve mobility.

Manual therapy uses massage, joint mobilization, stretching and other techniques to help restore normal movement or functioning.

Exercise Therapy

Exercise therapy is a type of physical therapy that uses specific exercises and movements to treat health conditions, improve functional abilities and prevent disability or injury.

Exercise therapy can help improve range of motion, strength, balance and coordination. It may also be used to manage chronic pain. Exercise therapists use different types of exercises such as stretching, strengthening and aerobic fitness work.

Electrotherapy

Electrotherapy is a type of physical therapy that uses electrical stimulation to treat pain, promote healing and restore function. It can be used on people suffering from musculoskeletal conditions such as sports injuries, arthritis or chronic pain.

Electrotherapy works by sending electrical impulses into the affected area, which can reduce inflammation, decrease muscle spasms and improve circulation. It can also help relieve pain, restore strength and increase range of motion.

Electrotherapy may be used in combination with other treatments such as exercise or manual therapy.

How to Prepare for a Physiotherapy Session?

You are able to make a self referral to Physiotherapy. Before going to a physiotherapy session, it is important to dress appropriately. Wear loose and comfortable clothing that allows the therapist to move your limbs easily.

If possible, you should also bring any relevant documentation such as medical reports or X-rays. You can obtain these from your GP surgery.

Additionally, it is important to discuss any specific concerns or goals with your physiotherapist prior to the session. This will help them tailor a treatment plan that best meets your needs and ensure you get the most out of your session.

What to Expect in a Physiotherapy Session?

A physiotherapy session typically begins with an assessment of your condition. This may include medical history, observation and physical testing.

The therapist will then discuss the results of the assessment and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

During the session, the therapist will use various techniques such as manual therapy, exercise or electrotherapy to help reduce pain, improve mobility and restore normal function.

At the end of the session, the therapist will discuss any exercises or activities you may need to do at home and provide any additional advice on how to manage your condition.

After your Physiotherapy Session:

Follow Through with Physiotherapy Exercises

It is important to follow the exercises provided by your physiotherapist as they are designed to strengthen and stretch your muscles, improve joint mobility, reduce pain and promote healing. They will help build on and maintain the improvements made in your session.

Rest and Recovery after Physiotherapy Treatment

It is important to rest and recover after a physiotherapy session as it helps the body to repair itself. During the session, your muscles and joints may have been stretched and strained which can cause fatigue.

Resting will help to reduce any soreness or stiffness in your muscles and allow for proper healing of any damaged tissues.

What Other Options do you Have for Pain Management?

In addition to Physiotherapy, there are other options available for pain management. Some of these include medication, acupuncture, hydrotherapy and massage therapy.

It is important to speak with your GP practice, Physiotherapist or trusted health care provider to discuss the best option for you based on your individual needs.

It is also important to make lifestyle changes such as getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet and managing stress levels. These changes can help reduce pain and improve overall health.

Additionally, relaxation techniques such as yoga, mindfulness or breathing exercises may help to manage pain and promote healing.

How do you Access Physiotherapy Services?

Physiotherapy services are available through hospitals, private clinics and health centres on a self referral basis. You do not always need a referral from your GP practice, unless you are seeking care on the NHS.

Your doctor or health care provider can refer you to a Physiotherapist or they may be able to provide the service in-house. Private clinics and health centres may also offer physiotherapy on an individual basis without a self referral form.

Additionally, many insurance plans cover physiotherapy services so it is important to check with your provider for coverage.

Physiotherapy Self Referral

Many physiotherapists allow for self-referral, meaning you can directly contact them and book an appointment without a referral form from your GP surgery. This is often more convenient and can be done online or over the phone.

If you ask the physiotherapy department, they will be able to advise if there is a particular healthcare professional that specialises in your area of discomfort, for example in musculoskeletal problems.

The Carter & George Practice is a premium provider of private physiotherapy in Hitchin, Radlett and Hertford. To learn more about our approach, click here.

Our newest clinic in Hitchin is now open! Click here to check it out.

IMPORTANT:

If you are reporting symptoms including:

• Changes to your bladder and bowel motion

• Unremitting night pain

• Changes to your sexual function

• Increasing difficulty to pass urine

• Unexplained weight loss

Please contact your medical practice for advice. Whilst many of these things in isolation are nothing to worry about, they can be symptoms of more complicated medical issues such as cauda equina syndrome.