What to expect

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession specifically focused on managing musculoskeletal discomfort, pain and injury (DPI) conditions.

The Willis Street Physiotherapy (WSP) approach is simple.

A detailed assessment is undertaken to ascertain the problem and relevant contributing lifestyle factors will be discussed.
A physical examination is also performed to determine pain sensitive structures and any biomechanical factors will be identified. You should expect to be undressed sufficiently to allow the examination, but at all times be comfortable in what is happening. You have the right to a chaperone if necessary, you can either bring a friend or our female receptionist can be present.
A working diagnosis is then formed, including determining pain sensitive structures and biomechanical contributing factors.
The findings are discussed with the patient and a management approach agreed upon.
Treatment will often begin by managing the pain response and addressing any factors identified in the assessment process.

Physiotherapists have an array of techniques available.

Common treatments may include; manipulation, mobilisation, stretching, acupuncture, strengthening, massage, trigger point work and many more. Treatments will be individualised and directed at returning to full function eg a running programme for a runner.

Modern physiotherapists have a ‘hands on’ approach. You should expect to be moved and to take an active role in treatment.

Not all problems are simple.

Successful management of DPI is very dependent on effective assessment, treatment and continual re-assessment. A skilled Physiotherapist is an expert at understanding when to refer you on for further investigation or opinion eg xray or referral through to a Sports Physician.

Within 1-4 sessions most conditions should show some improvement. You should be able to see of feel improvement in your problem.

Useful questions to ask your physiotherapist

It is important to get fully informed about your condition, so feel free to ask all the questions you want. Some useful starters include:

What is the main problem? What is my diagnosis?
How serious is the problem?
What do I need to do to help my recovery?
Are there other contributing factors?
How can I avoid this happening again?
When can I return to normal activity/play?
What are the intermediate milestones?
Will this require many treatment sessions?
What happens if the problem is not getting better?