Frequently Asked Questions

All you need to know about physiotherapy at The Cloisters

General

How soon after my injury should I see a Physiotherapist?

Do I need to see my Doctor before I make an appointment?

You do not need to have a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist at The Cloisters. However, if you plan to claim from medical health insurance, your insurers may insist that you see a Doctor first. Make sure you check the details of your scheme.

What should I wear for my appointment?

The physiotherapist will need to examine the area of the body that is troubling you and also areas that may be linked to your problem. If your back needs to be examined it is helpful if you undress to your underwear. If you are attending with a leg problem, it is useful to bring a pair of shorts, although we do have a range of shorts we can lend out. If you feel at all uncomfortable about undressing, please discuss it with your Physiotherapist.

Will I see a man or a woman?
Currently, we have a team of female physios and one male physiotherapist at The Cloisters. If you have a preference as to who you see please advise the Reception team when booking.
Are all the Physiotherapists qualified?

Yes. All of our team are fully qualified Chartered Physiotherapists, and are registered with all the major Health Insurance Companies. Our Physiotherapists have varying areas of expertise so our Receptionist will ask the nature of your problem to book you with the most appropriate team member.

How long does an appointment last?

Your first consultation will probably last between 45 minutes and 1 hour. During this time the Physiotherapist will examine you fully and commence treatment.
Subsequent appointments last about 30 minutes.

How much treatment will I need?

This varies tremendously. Some conditions resolve very rapidly, others can take a lot longer. Your Physiotherapist will be able to give you an idea at the end of the first appointment. Occasionally, physiotherapy will not resolve the problem – we will then try to refer you to the most appropriate person for further investigation and/or treatment. Subsequent appointments last about 30 minutes.

Can I receive physiotherapy at home?

Yes! To read more about receiving physio at home please click here.

How soon after my injury should I see a Physiotherapist?

Most acute injuries are best managed for the first 48-72 hours with rest, ice, compression and elevation – particularly if there is a lot of swelling.

However, there are treatments we offer that can help resolve the swelling more quickly and expedite the healing process.

What should I bring?

As we will need to see the injured part fully and the area around the injury then a pair of shorts would be useful.

If the injury is more long standing then it is useful for the Physiotherapist to look at your sports shoes so bring them along to.

Are there changing/shower facilities?

All treatment areas are completely private for you to change in. We do not have a shower but a cloakroom is available.

What equipment do you have available?

Our large Physiotherapy Gym is well equipped with a bike, treadmill, weights and a stepper. We also have stability balls, balance boards and much more.

We can supply  theraband, strapping and walking aids if needed.

Will it hurt?

Some of the tests we carry out maybe uncomfortable but we will work within your pain limits. You will always be consulted before we carry out any treatment or prescribe any exercises.

Can I bring someone with me?

Yes of course. Preferably an adult or someone you can be comfortable and relaxed with.

Acupuncture

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are very fine and they are inserted quickly through the skin. You may feel a slight pin prick sensation. Once in place, there might be a mild ache, a warm or heavy sensation at or around the needle. This should not be unpleasant and should settle.

However, there are treatments we offer that can help resolve the swelling more quickly and expedite the healing process.

How many needles will be used?

Commonly, between two and twelve.

How long are the needles left in?

Sometimes only one to two minutes, but usually between somewhere between ten and thirty minutes.

Where will the needles be placed?

They may be inserted close to site of the pain, but may also be placed away from it. Hands and feet may be used.

Do I have to look at the needles?

No! Not if you don’t want to.

Pilates

I am receiving treatment at the Clinic – can I do Pilates as well?

Your Physiotherapist will advise you as to the best time to begin Pilates, but very often Pilates complements the treatment you are receiving.

However, there are treatments we offer that can help resolve the swelling more quickly and expedite the healing process.

I have not attended The Cloisters Physiotherapy Clinic – can I attend the course?

Everyone is welcome to attend and enjoy the benefits of Pilates. Before starting the course you will be required to complete a medical and readiness to exercise questionnaire to ensure your comfort during the course and full details of this are available from Reception.

Am I too old to start Pilates?

Age is not a barrier to enjoying the benefits of Pilates – individual progression is important. We have taught people of all ages including age 80 and above.

What happens if I cannot do the exercises?

With your permission, your instructor will be notified of any specific conditions which might inhibit certain movements. The format of the class is designed around individual needs. Whilst governed by strong principles, the Pilates method is also flexible. No-one is expected to be able to do everything.

How do I know I am doing the exercises correctly?

Your instructor will help and advise you with every movement. Once you start to feel the benefits of the exercise and understand the principles a little more, your mind and body will develop a very close connection and self-adjustment and improvement will seem easier. At no stage will you be left on your own.

What should I wear?

The dress code is comfortable – loose trousers and T shirt are ideal with bare feet or socks.

No additional equipment is required.

Referrals

Can I get assistance with a consultant referral?

Following assessment and treatment by one of our physiotherapists, it may be decided that a detailed consultation with a consultant is required. The physios at The Cloisters are able to suggest an appropriate consultant and, in some cases, make the referral or advise your GP that one is needed.

 

Patients are often referred back to The Cloisters after further investigation and treatment by a consultant so that rehab can continue with no break in care. 

 

The physios at The Cloisters generally signpost patients to one of the consultants listed below who can be seen via the NHS and/or privately. 

Neurology

Dr A Shehu   01926 356112  pa@regentmedical.co.uk

Dr A Thomas  01926 562472   warwick.patienceservices@nuffieldhealth.com

Neurosurgery

Mr A Amit  07597 664699  emma@centralenglandneurosurgery.com

Mr S Joshi  07860 805144  ashley@centralenglandneurosurgery.com

Mr Saxena  01926 562472  warwick.patientservices@nuffieldhealth.com

Professor M Shad  01926 562472  warwick.patientservices@nuffieldhealth.com

Orthopaedics – Lower limb

Mr M Cronin  07443 615311 bookings@michaelcronin.co.uk [hip]

Mr W Dandachli 01926 436464  rebecca.liggins@nuffieldhealth.com [hip]

Mr V Dhukaram 07956 259033 warwick.patientservices@nuffieldhealth.com [foot and ankle]

Mr S El-Kawy 07804 946613 warwickshiremedicalconsultants@gmail.com [foot, ankle and knee]

Mr M Faisal 07804 946613 warwickshiremedicalconsultants@gmail.com [hip]

Mr P Foguet 01926 562472 warwick.patientservices@nuffieldhealth.com [hip and knee]

Professor DR Griffin 01926 403529 emma@hiparthroscopyclinic.co.uk  [hip]

Mr J Ramos 01926 562472 warwick.patientservices@nuffieldhealth.com  [foot and ankle]

Mr A Shepherd 01926 562472 warwick.patientservices@nuffieldhealth.com  [hip and knee]

Mr T Spalding 01926 772731 nicki@timspalding.com [knee]

Mr P Thompson 07776 290418 info@mrpeterthompson.co.uk [knee]

Mr J Waite 01926 842464 warwickkneesurgery@gmail.com [knee]

Orthopaedics – Spinal

Mr A Abdelaal 01926 562472

Mr N Shergill  02476 612681  info@warwickshireclinics.co.uk

Mr R Sneath  02476 612681  info@warwickshireclinics.co.uk

Orthopaedics – Upper limb

Mr S Drew  01162 401712  sjhurley.drew@gmail.com [shoulder, elbow and hand]

Mr T Lawrence  01926 562472  warwick.patientservices@nuffieldhealth.com [shoulder and elbow]

Mr K Mangat 0121 7169035 info@upperlimbsurgeon.co.uk [shoulder, elbow, hand and wrist]

Mr C Modi  01926 562472  warwick.patientservices@nuffield.com [shoulder, elbow and hand]

Mr G Shyamalan  01926 562472  warwick.patientservices@nuffieldhealth.com [hand and wrist]

Mr R Sloan  01926 562472  warwick.patientservices@nuffieldhealth.com [shoulder, elbow, hand and wrist]

Mr R Stanislas  01926 865901  sonia.medsec@gmail.com [shoulder, hand and wrist]

Rheumatology

Dr C Marguerie 01926 852368 carmelocallaghan@btinternet.com

[Rheumatology and osteoporosis]

Physio at Home

Does it cost more to be seen at home compared to being seen in Clinic?

The initial assessment is marginally more expensive than a clinic assessment but follow up appointments are the same price. Feel free to discuss the price structure with reception staff who will be able to help you. A travel charge will be applied to addresses 5 miles or more from The Cloisters; the physio will discuss this with you on enquiry. Insurance claims need to be discussed with the Practice Manager.

How will you access my home?

Access to your home will be discussed before assessment. A specific time will be given to attend and key safe numbers (if appropriate) will only be available to the visiting therapist. Nursing and residential homes will be given appointment times and access will be granted in line with their security policies. Many clients choose to have a family member present on the first visit to enable access and sometimes to help with the information gathering. This is at your discretion.

We carry Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) cards with our registration details with us. You are free to check up online.

How do you assess me in my own home?

Initially we will gather information about your presenting condition to help us understand the nature of your current problems, what your normal mobility status is and what you want to realistically achieve from physiotherapy input.

As Chartered Physiotherapists we take a holistic (whole person) approach to health and wellbeing, which includes your general lifestyle. So we will ask you about other areas of health including nutrition, skin integrity, personal care and general home management. This will help us (client and Physio) to determine the best way to manage your problems and assist the planning of client centred goals (specific goals for you).

As is often the reason for assessment we will assess all aspects of your function, any specific tests for movement, strength and balance. A specific training programme will be agreed in line with your goals.

Do I need to provide any equipment?

No. We will bring any equipment we need.

We just request that there is a space for assessment where you feel safe, comfortable and provides you with appropriate privacy and for you to be dressed appropriately. As with any physiotherapy assessment we need to be able to see and feel the area(s) of concern with your consent. As we have no access to a treatment couch in the home it may be appropriate to assess you from your chair/bed/on the floor as appropriate.

What happens after the assessment?

Follow up appointments will be organised as appropriate for you.

Tai Chi

What are the benefits of Tai Chi?

Many people find Tai Chi helps improve their balance and mobility. You may find your legs feel stronger and you have more confidence in your walking.
As a weight-bearing activity, Tai Chi can help increase bone density and so prevent osteoporosis. Tai Chi is also relaxing and so can help reduce stress and improve sleep patterns.
Tai Chi has been shown to improve general wellbeing, energy levels and alertness.

Why is it called ‘Modified Tai Chi’?

The exercises are based on traditional Tai Chi forms but have been adapted to be easier to follow in a class and to be more accessible to everyone 

What should I wear?

Loose comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Trousers are better than skirts, but if you prefer to wear a skirt it is not a problem. You should wear flat shoes that will not fall off (i.e. not flip flops) or just do the exercises in bare feet – the floor is carpeted.

How many people are in the class?

We allow up to 10 people in the group.

How long does the class last?
We exercise for 45 minutes, but people often stay to chat for a few minutes after we finish.
I get out of breath when I exercise - can I still do Tai Chi?

Yes, providing you have spoken to your doctor and there is no medical reason for you to avoid exercise; you should find the exercises relaxing and may help you to control your breathing better.

I have had a hip replacement - can I still do Tai Chi?

Yes, but you will need to speak to the instructor first so you understand how you can enjoy the class safely.