Do I need a doctor’s referral for physiotherapy?
No. You may consult a physiotherapist direct without a referral from your GP or consultant. However, in some cases contact between the physiotherapist and your doctor is in your own best interests, and when appropriate the physiotherapist may advise you to see your GP before or during your treatments.

How do I know if a Physiotherapist is fully qualified?
All Chartered physiotherapists have completed degree courses to qualify them for practice. Your physiotherapist should be a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC). Qualified physiotherapists will be happy to show you certificates of their registration – and you should ask if you have any doubts.Click the link below for more on Rachel's Qualification

• Qualifications

What is electrotherapy?
Electrotherapy is a term used to cover a wide range of treatments that use patterns of energy waves to reduce swelling or pain or muscle spasms. The best known are ultrasound, interferential and laser therapies – all of which are carefully regulated to ensure patient safety at all times.

Is physiotherapy manipulation?
Physiotherapy should not be primarily identified with manipulation (in the way that chiropractic and osteopathy often are). Chartered physiotherapists who have undergone the appropriate professional training do use manipulation in carefully selected cases, but they typically use a far wider range of techniques and treatments. Manipulation should never be offered or accepted as a ‘quick fix’ for complex conditions.

How long are the appointments?
The physiotherapist will do a full assessment during the first appointment, which normally takes between 45 minutes and one hour. Follow-up appointments are usually up to 30 minutes.

What should I wear?
The physiotherapist will need to see the affected part of the body. For injuries to the lower limb you should bring shorts, for upper limb and neck injuries you will need to take your top off (keeping bras on for women).To fully assess and treat back problems the therapist may need you to undress to your underwear.

If your injury is sports-related, it is useful for the therapist to see your normal footwear or equipment (such as tennis racquets). If the injury is associated with any other activity you may wish to bring any items that you think may contribute to your injury – for example, musicians might bring their instruments wherever possible.