When Should You See a Physiotherapist?

One of the most common things we hear in clinic is "I probably should have come in sooner." Most aches and strains do settle on their own, so waiting is often reasonable. But there are clear signs that a problem needs professional attention, and getting help at the right time usually means a shorter, simpler recovery.

Signs it is time to book

• The pain has lasted more than two weeks without clearly improving. Most simple strains are noticeably better within a fortnight.
• It keeps coming back. A recurring problem is telling you that something underneath, such as strength, movement or load, has not been addressed.
• It is stopping you doing things. If you are avoiding stairs, skipping training or struggling with work, waiting is costing you more than an appointment would.
• You have had surgery or a significant injury. Guided rehabilitation makes a measurable difference to how well and how quickly you recover.
• There is numbness, tingling or weakness. These symptoms deserve prompt assessment.

You do not need a referral

You can book directly with a physiotherapist. In the UK, physiotherapists are regulated healthcare professionals trained to assess and diagnose musculoskeletal problems, and to recognise when something needs a doctor's attention instead. If we think you need a scan, a medical opinion or a different service, we will say so and help you arrange it.

What actually happens in the first appointment

Your first appointment at Northwell lasts up to an hour. Your physiotherapist will begin by listening: when the problem started, what makes it better or worse, what you want to get back to. They will then examine how you move, test strength and flexibility and, where appropriate, look at the area in detail.

By the end of the appointment you will know what we think is going on, in plain language, and you will have a plan. Treatment usually starts in the same session, and you will leave with a small number of things to do at home rather than a long list.

What it is not

Physiotherapy is not just a massage, and it is not just being handed a sheet of exercises. Good physiotherapy is an ongoing conversation about what is working and what needs to change, with hands-on treatment, exercise and advice combined in whatever mix suits you.

If you are unsure whether an appointment is the right next step, get in touch and one of the team will happily talk it through with you.

Explore physiotherapy