
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Physiotherapy & what does it actually do?
What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy helps people move better, feel stronger, and live with less pain.
It focuses on joints, muscles, nerves, balance, mobility, and day‑to‑day function.
It combines hands‑on treatment, movement coaching, and practical advice tailored to your goals.
It is suitable for all ages — including older adults, people with long‑term conditions, and those recovering from illness or surgery.
What does a physiotherapist actually do?
Assesses how you move, your strength, balance, and pain.
Helps reduce pain and stiffness.
Improves mobility, confidence, and independence.
Supports recovery after surgery or hospital stays.
Helps prevent falls and maintain long‑term health.
2. Is Physiotherapy right for me?
What conditions do you treat?
• Back And Neck Pain
• Sports Injuries
• Post‑Surgical Rehab (E.G. Hip Or Knee Replacements)
• Joint And Muscle Problems
• Mobility And Balance Issues
• Chronic Pain Management
• Elderly Care And Deconditioning
• Respiratory And Neurological Rehab (Case‑Dependent)
• General Paediatric Issues
What if I’m older or have multiple health conditions?
Sessions are adapted to your comfort, mobility, and energy levels. We will work at your pace towards your goals.
Home visits are available if travelling is difficult.
Senior clients (65+) receive additional discounts on Home Rehab Packages, making long‑term support more accessible.
What if I am nervous about starting physio?
That is completely normal — especially if you have been in pain for a while.
The first session is about understanding your story, not pushing you into anything uncomfortable.
You set the pace, and you can bring someone with you if that helps.
What if I feel embarrassed about my condition?
You are not alone — many people feel this way before starting.
My role is to help, not judge.
Everything is confidential, and you are always treated with respect, dignity, and patience.
What if I have had physio before and it didn’t help?
Not all physio is the same — different approaches work for different people.
We will start fresh, look at what was tried before, and build a plan that fits your goals and daily life.
If your condition needs a different type of care, I will tell you openly.
3. Accessing Physiotherapy and Practicalities:
Do you do home visits?
Yes — home visits are available in Swaffham and surrounding areas.
They are ideal if you have mobility issues, prefer treatment at home, or want a more comfortable environment.
Home‑visit pricing reflects travel time and setup, but remains competitive locally.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes — you are welcome to bring a partner, friend, or family member if it helps you feel more comfortable.
For home visits, carers or relatives are also welcome to be present.
For virtual sessions, someone can join the call if you prefer.
Naturally, for children, the presence of a parent, a carer or legal guardian is needed for the session to take place.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily — gym wear, leggings, shorts, or loose trousers.
For back, hip, or leg issues, shorts are helpful.
For shoulder or neck issues, a vest top or loose T‑shirt works well.
Do I need a GP referral?
No — you can book directly without seeing your GP first.
If I feel another service would be more appropriate, I will tell you openly and help you get to the right place.
Bring any letters or scan reports if you have them, but they are not required.
How long are the sessions?
• In‑clinic initial assessment: 60 minutes;
• In‑clinic follow‑up: 45 minutes;
• Home visit initial: 90 minutes;
• Home visit follow‑up: 45 minutes;
• Virtual initial: 45 minutes;
• Virtual follow‑up: 30 minutes;
• Mini Movement MOT: 20 minutes;
• Shared Goals (2 people): 90 minutes;
• Longer or premium sessions are available if you need more time.
4. Treatment Expectations:
Will you do “hands‑on” treatment or just talk?
Most sessions include a mix of hands‑on treatment as indicated (e.g. manual therapy, soft‑tissue work or joint mobilisation) and active rehab.
Hands‑on work helps reduce pain and improve movement; exercises help you stay better long‑term.
If you prefer more or less hands‑on treatment, just tell me — sessions are tailored to your comfort and goals.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your goals, the nature of your condition, and how your body responds.
Some people only need one or two sessions; others benefit from regular sessions over several weeks.
You will always get an honest estimate after your initial assessment — no pressure, no upselling.
What if I prefer not to do exercises?
Exercises are important, but they don’t have to be complicated or time‑consuming.
We will find the simplest, most realistic plan that fits your lifestyle.
If you prefer more hands‑on treatment, we can lean into that — but long‑term change usually needs a mix of both.
What if I can’t commit to regular sessions?
You are in control of how often you attend.
Some people benefit from weekly sessions; others check in every few weeks.
If life gets busy, we adjust the plan — you will not be pressured into a schedule that doesn’t work for you.
What if I don’t get better?
Not every condition responds at the same speed, and some take longer than expected.
If your progress is not where it should be, I will tell you honestly — not keep you coming back without results.
We will review what is working, what is not, and whether a different approach or referral is needed.
If physiotherapy is not the right tool for your problem, I will help guide you to the right service rather than waste your time or money.
What if physio isn’t the right treatment for me?
Sometimes, the issue is not muscular or joint related or it needs medical investigation first.
If I suspect that physio will not help, I will say so clearly and as early on as possible.
You will get guidance on the next steps — GP, imaging, specialist referral, or another service that fits your needs better.
5. Bookings, Payments and Refunds:
Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes — a minimum £20 deposit is required to secure all initial appointments.
You can pay more upfront if you prefer, and settle the remaining balance after your session.
Will I get a refund of my deposit if I cancel or change my mind?
Yes — full refund but only if you cancel at least 48 hours in advance.
No refund can given if you cancel within 48 hours of your session or do not attend, as the slot cannot be offered to someone else at short notice.
You can reschedule, but the same 48‑hour rule applies.
Refunds are available for unused sessions in a package.
If you have already used part of a package, the remaining balance can be refunded.
Missed appointments without notice are not refundable, as that time is reserved specifically for you.
What if I pay for a package and then realise I don’t need all the sessions?
You can get a refund for any unused sessions.
Used sessions are charged at the agreed rate, and the remaining balance is returned to you.
No penalties, no awkward conversations — just fairness and transparency.
Are your prices competitive?
Yes — my prices sit slightly below the average for Norfolk private physio, while still offering senior‑level care and expertise.
Home visits and virtual sessions are clearly priced and flexible.
Packages offer additional savings for clients who want a structured plan.
This balance keeps treatment accessible without compromising quality.
Further discounts are available for over 65’s.
Do you offer gift cards, vouchers or pre-paid credit?
This is work in progress and I hope to make these options available very soon.
Once available, after purchase they can be used for any session, including home visits and packages.
They can be gifted or kept for yourself and redeemed easily.
Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or supporting a loved one’s recovery.
Do you work with insurance providers?
Sessions are currently self‑funded, with payment made at the time of booking and/or after your appointment.
You are welcome to claim reimbursement from your insurer if your policy allows it — I can provide receipts or summaries.
Always check with your insurer first, as policies vary.
What if I can’t afford ongoing sessions?
You are never locked into a plan — you can book one session at a time.
Virtual check‑ins and shorter ‘MOT’ sessions offer lower‑cost options.
You’ll always get clear advice on what’s essential and what’s optional.
6. NHS vs Private – Good Value for Money?
Why not just go with the NHS?
NHS physio is excellent, but waiting times can be long and appointments are often short.
You may see different clinicians each time, which makes continuity harder.
Private physio gives you immediate access, longer sessions, and a consistent clinician who follows your progress closely and knows your story from day one.
If you need help now — not in 12–18 weeks — private care is often the faster route to recovery.
Why should I choose private physiotherapy?
You get dedicated one‑to‑one time without rushing.
Sessions are longer than typical NHS appointments (e.g. 60‑minute initial assessment in clinic, 90-minute initial assessment at home).
You choose the format that suits you: in clinic, at home, virtual, or phone.
You choose appointment times that fit your life, including evenings and home visits.
Your treatment plan is built around your goals, not service limitations or constraints.
You get direct access to a senior clinician with broad NHS experience.
Is it worth paying for a private physio?
If you want faster access, more hands‑on time, and a personalised plan, private physio is often the quickest route to feeling better.
Investing early can prevent long‑term issues, reduce time off work, and avoid unnecessary investigations.
Many clients find that a few focused sessions save months of waiting and uncertainty.
