Yes. Your first visit involves a comprehensive assessment. You will be referred speedily to your doctor if an issue arises that requires that
No. We cannot see you while you are attending another physiotherapist. Maybe you could question why you want a second opinion. Do you believe your current treatment is not right for you? Are you not getting better at all or not 'fast enough'? Have you talked to your current physiotherapist about these concerns? You should try to resolve those questions before you jump ship. If you still want to change after all that you will be very welcome.
No is the simple answer. Many people have degenerative changes in their spine just like they have fillings in their teeth or laughter lines on their face. It's not an end in itself to know you have degenerative change you need to know other things as well. You will need to learn what helps you to be pain -free, what activities of daily living can lead to pain, what treatment is effective and what exercises give you control over your symptoms.
You will be assessed and treated according to what we find. We usually use exercise programmes in addition to hands-on effective physical treatment and/or acupuncture. We also pay particular attention to teaching you about your day to day positions/postures which may be causing or adding to your pains and aches.
In a word, Yes. By 'work' you probably mean is it an effective treatment. When used appropriately it is very successful. Where it doesn't 'work' it simply is not the best approach to use at that time. To elaborate, you know paracetamol can relieve headaches but would you expect it to work for constipation?
No. It is completely irrelevant. However, it is desirable that you trust your therapist and believe that they are competent and professional. It is reassuring and encouraging to know they are trying to help you and will do all they can to relieve your problem
Orthotics are basically insoles that fit into your shoes to correct the position of your foot relative to the ground i.e. they change how you stand and weight bear through your feet and legs.
This is particularly useful when you have been having knee pain, shin splints, foot pain or other problem that has been identified by your doctor or physiotherapist as being linked to your foot posture.
Some people can get ease from over the counter general insoles in the same way that you can buy spectacles in the chemist to help you read. They help but not as well as ones you are measured for.
Customised i.e. individually measured and well made orthotics are 'life changers' for some people particularly those who have been considering giving up running, walking, golf or whatever activity because of pain. This can be completely relieved by good orthotic correction.