What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a profession concerned with human function and
movement. Physiotherapists are highly skilled, fully qualified professionals
who use a combination of assessment and treatment techniques to
diagnose and treat problems that arise in the moving parts of the
body, its skeletal structure and the soft tissues attached to and
surrounding it. The techniques combine hands-on treatments with
the use of exercise, and electrical and electronic equipment to
reduce pain and to promote healing.
Physiotherapists complete degree courses in Physiotherapy
and must be registered with the Health Professions Council to be
able to practise Physiotherapy. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
is the professional and educational body for Chartered Physiotherapists;
it supports its members in the provision of the highest standards
of patient care.
How Many Treatments are Likely to be Necessary?
That depends on each individual case. The overall policy operated
by Elaine Atkins Physiotherapy Associates ensures that each patient
receives the best and most appropriate treatment – or a referral
back to their GP or a Consultant if necessary. As a guide, the average
number of treatments per case is five, however fewer or more treatments
may be necessary for your particular condition.
Does Private Medical Insurance Cover Physiotherapy?
Most private medical insurance schemes cover claims for physiotherapy
treatment – but it is important to check in each case before
commencement of treatment as conditions and limits vary. Elaine
Atkins Physiotherapy Associates is recognised by major insurance
companies such as BUPA and AXA PPP and we are able to provide direct
settlement with many insurance and medical-legal firms; our Reception
Team will be able to advise you on this.
Do I need a referral?
Patients can be referred to us by a GP, Consultant or you may refer
yourself. Contact will be made with your doctor as necessary and
a letter sent once treatment is finished.
Will I be treated in a private treatment room?
Yes. We have individual treatment rooms to ensure privacy and confidentiality.
All our rooms are well-equipped, well-maintained and comfortable.
What might treatment involve?
Treatment may include:
- Manipulation (a high-speed, small thrust movement applied
to joints, mainly used in the treatment of spinal pain), mobilisation
(a manual treatment applied to joints and the soft tissues to
improve range of movement) and soft tissue massage, ultrasound,
electro-magnetic energy, interferential therapy and acupuncture
for pain relief and stimulation of healing
The Physiotherapy team may also recommend additional
services such as:
- Remedial Massage
- Hydrotherapy
Is it OK for me to specify the gender of the Physiotherapist
that I see?
We want our Patients to be as comfortable as possible when receiving
Physiotherapy treatment at Elaine Atkins Physiotherapy Associates,
therefore we are very happy for you choose when, where and by whom
you are treated, according to your own preferences.
How can I give Elaine Atkins Associates
Physiotherapy positive/negative feedback?
Patient feedback is invaluable in ensuring the quality of the service
we offer. We have Suggestion Forms and post-boxes in each Reception
area where patients can leave a comment, and in addition we have
our Mid-End of Treatment Feedback Form which you will be given a
copy of during treatment or once discharged. Alternatively you can
also contact the Practice Manager directly with any feedback, your
views are always of interest to us: management@elaineatkins.com
Does Physiotherapy hurt?
Some Patients may experience pain during their assessment; the Physiotherapist
will be careful to minimise any such pain whilst they obtain a diagnosis
of the problem. In addition to this, some techniques need to ‘nudge
into pain’ and you may have some after treatment soreness.
Be assured that all of the Physiotherapists will be careful to ensure
minimal discomfort in achieving longer term benefits and will seek
your feedback on any pain you are experiencing.
If your general level of pain is high on arrival
at the clinic, contact can be made with your Doctor to seek advice
on a suitable prescription. |
