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Physiotherapy questions, answered
73 answers from our clinical team in Slough and Ealing. Can't find yours? Call 020 3371 0995.
Appointments, referrals and insurance
Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist?
No. You can book directly with Gogodoc Physio in Slough or Ealing. Some insurers need a GP referral, so please check your policy.
What happens at my first appointment?
We talk through your history and goals, carry out an assessment, explain what we find and start treatment in the same session. Allow 45 to 60 minutes.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing you can move in. For pelvic health appointments, wear whatever you feel comfortable in. You will always be offered privacy and a chaperone.
Can I bring my baby?
Yes. Babies are welcome at postnatal appointments and our Postnatal Restore class.
Are your physiotherapists registered?
Yes. All our physiotherapists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Is there parking?
Yes. Slough has pay-by-phone bays on Albert Street and town-centre car parks nearby. In Ealing, the clinic is off Boston Road in Hanwell; please ask about parking when you book. Full directions are on each clinic page.
MSK Physiotherapy
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book directly with a physiotherapist.
How many sessions will I need?
Most people need between 3 and 6 sessions, depending on the problem and how long you have had it.
Do I need a scan first?
Usually not. If imaging is needed, we can arrange diagnostic ultrasound or advise on next steps.
Can I claim on insurance?
Many UK private health insurers cover physiotherapy. Check your policy for referral and authorisation requirements.
Can I self-refer to a physiotherapist in Slough or Ealing?
Yes. You can book directly with Gogodoc Physio without a GP referral. Some insurers ask for a GP or online GP referral before they pay, so check your policy if you are claiming.
What does a physio do for sciatica?
We find what is irritating the nerve, then use specific exercises, nerve mobility work, manual therapy and advice on movement and sleep positions. Most sciatica improves within six to twelve weeks with the right plan.
Is physiotherapy or a chiropractor better for back pain?
Both can help. Physiotherapy focuses on a clear diagnosis, exercise and long-term self-management, which current UK NICE guidance recommends as first-line care for low back pain.
How quickly can I get a physio appointment?
We aim to offer appointments within a few days, with evenings until 9pm on weekdays and Saturday mornings at both clinics.
Sports Injury Physiotherapy
Should I rest or keep training?
It depends on the injury. Most people do better with modified training rather than complete rest. We'll tell you exactly what's safe.
Do you treat children and teenagers?
Yes, we treat young athletes aged 12 and over with a parent or guardian present.
How soon can I be seen?
We aim to offer appointments within a few days, including weekends.
Can you help me prepare for a marathon?
Yes. We offer pre-event checks, running analysis and strength programmes.
Do you offer sports massage in Slough and Ealing?
Yes. Our sports therapist offers sports massage on its own or alongside physiotherapy for recovery, event preparation and muscle tightness.
How long does a hamstring strain take to heal?
Mild strains often recover in two to four weeks. More significant tears can take six to twelve weeks. A graded return with sprint testing lowers the risk of re-injury.
Should I see a physio or a sports therapist?
See a physiotherapist for diagnosis and rehab of an injury. A sports therapist is ideal for sports massage and conditioning. We have both and work together.
Can you help with a running injury before a race?
Yes. We can assess you, treat the problem and adjust your training plan so you can run safely, often without stopping completely.
Post-Surgery Rehabilitation
When should I start physio after surgery?
Usually within the first one to two weeks, depending on your surgeon's advice.
Can you see me if I had surgery on the NHS?
Yes. Many patients choose private physio to add to or speed up their NHS rehab.
Do you offer prehab before surgery?
Yes. Getting stronger beforehand often leads to a smoother recovery.
How long after a knee replacement should I have physio?
Physio usually starts in hospital and continues for about three months. Most people make big gains in the first six to twelve weeks, with improvement continuing for up to a year.
Do I need my surgeon's notes?
Bring any discharge letter or protocol if you have one. If not, we can work from your operation details and contact your surgical team if needed.
Can I have private physio after NHS surgery?
Yes. Many patients in Slough and Ealing add private physio after NHS surgery to be seen sooner and more often.
What is prehab?
Prehabilitation means exercise before surgery. It builds strength and can lead to a quicker, smoother recovery afterwards.
Women's Health Physiotherapy
Can I request a female physiotherapist?
Yes. Let us know when booking.
Will I need an internal examination?
Only if you consent and it would genuinely help. It is always optional.
Is it only for women who have had babies?
No. We see women of all ages.
What does a women's health physio do?
A women's health physiotherapist assesses and treats the pelvic floor, bladder and bowel symptoms, pelvic pain, and pregnancy and postnatal issues, using exercise, manual therapy and education.
Can I see a women's health physio without a referral?
Yes. You can book directly at our Slough or Ealing clinic, and we will write to your GP if further tests are needed.
Can physio help with menopause symptoms?
Physiotherapy can help with bladder leakage, prolapse symptoms, joint pain and keeping bones and muscles strong during and after menopause.
Is women's health physio only for after childbirth?
No. We see women at every stage of life, including teenagers, athletes, women going through menopause and older women.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Do you treat men?
Yes, including rehab after prostate surgery.
Does pelvic floor physio really work?
Yes. Research shows supervised pelvic floor muscle training cures or improves stress incontinence for most women, which is why NICE recommends at least three months of it first.
How do I know if I am doing pelvic floor exercises correctly?
Many people are not. A pelvic floor physio can check this, with your consent, and give you a programme matched to your strength.
Can men have pelvic floor physiotherapy?
Yes. We treat men with leakage after prostate surgery and men with pelvic pain.
How long does pelvic floor physio take to work?
Most people notice changes within six to eight weeks. A full programme usually lasts about three months.
Pregnancy & Postnatal Physiotherapy
Is treatment safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Every technique we use is adapted for pregnancy.
When can I have a postnatal check?
From six weeks after a vaginal birth and around eight weeks after a caesarean.
What is a Mummy MOT?
A Mummy MOT is a detailed postnatal check by a specialist physio. It covers your tummy muscles, pelvic floor, posture and return to exercise, and is usually done from six weeks after birth.
Can physio help with SPD in pregnancy?
Yes. Physiotherapy is the recommended treatment for pelvic girdle pain and SPD. Gentle treatment, a support belt and simple movement changes often bring quick relief.
Is it safe to see a physio while pregnant?
Yes. Physiotherapy is safe throughout pregnancy, and we adapt positions and techniques for each stage.
When can I exercise after a C-section?
Gentle walking and breathing exercises can start straight away. Most women can build up to higher-impact exercise from around 12 weeks, after a postnatal assessment.
Physiotherapy for Older Adults
Can a family member come with me?
Yes, family and carers are welcome.
Is the clinic accessible?
Our Slough clinic is on the ground floor. Our Ealing clinic is in Broads Foundry, which has lift access. Please tell us about any access needs when you book and we will make sure your visit is easy.
Will exercises be too hard?
No. Everything is matched to your ability and progressed gently.
Can physiotherapy help prevent falls?
Yes. Regular strength and balance exercise is the most effective way to prevent falls in older adults, and a physio can tailor this safely to you.
Is physio good for arthritis in the knee?
Yes. Exercise and staying active are first-line treatments for knee osteoarthritis. They reduce pain and improve function, even in severe arthritis.
Do you offer appointments for elderly parents?
Yes. Family members are welcome to book on your behalf and come along to appointments.
Am I too old for physiotherapy?
No. People in their 80s and 90s make real gains in strength and balance with the right programme.
Corporate & Workplace Physiotherapy
Do you offer on-site physiotherapy?
Yes, on-site sessions and workshops can be arranged.
Can you work with our occupational health provider?
Yes, we regularly liaise with OH teams.
How are packages priced?
Pricing depends on team size and services. Contact us for a tailored proposal.
What is a DSE assessment?
A DSE (display screen equipment) assessment checks a worker's desk, chair and screen setup to prevent neck, back and arm problems. UK employers must assess DSE risks under HSE regulations.
How does corporate physiotherapy reduce absence?
Fast access means staff are treated early, before problems become chronic, so fewer days are lost and people return to work sooner.
Do you work with businesses on Slough Trading Estate?
Yes. Our Slough clinic is close to the Trading Estate, and our Ealing clinic serves Park Royal, Hanwell and West London employers.
Can you run sessions at our office?
Yes. We offer on-site physio clinics, workshops and group classes at your workplace.
Clinical Pilates
I've never done Pilates. Is that OK?
Absolutely. Classes are graded and every exercise is adapted.
How big are the classes?
Around ten people at most.
Do I need equipment?
No. We provide mats and equipment.
What is the difference between Clinical Pilates and normal Pilates?
Clinical Pilates is taught by physiotherapists, who assess you first and adapt every exercise to your injuries and goals, in smaller classes.
Is Pilates good for back pain?
Yes. Exercise approaches like Pilates are recommended for persistent low back pain and help improve strength, flexibility and confidence in movement.
Are there Pilates classes in Slough and Ealing?
Yes. We run weekly Clinical Pilates classes at both clinics, including pregnancy and postnatal classes.
Can I do Pilates while pregnant?
Yes, with the right adaptations. Our antenatal classes are designed for pregnancy and led by physiotherapists.
Sports Massage
Is sports massage painful?
It can feel firm and occasionally uncomfortable on tight areas, but it should never be more than you can comfortably tolerate. Tell your therapist and they will adjust the pressure.
How often should I have a sports massage?
During heavy training, every 2–4 weeks works well for most people. Before an event, book 2–5 days ahead.
Is sports massage the same as physiotherapy?
No. Sports massage focuses on muscles and recovery. If you have pain from an injury, start with a physiotherapy assessment so we can diagnose it first.
How much is a sports massage in Slough or Ealing?
See our prices section for current sports massage fees. Sessions are available in 30, 45 and 60 minute lengths.
Can I claim sports massage on insurance?
Most private medical insurers do not cover sports massage, but some health cash plans do. Check your policy.
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Book a physiotherapy assessment in Slough or Ealing. Weekday and weekend appointments.