Question 1

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No you do not need a referral to book a physio appointment with us.

Question 2

What shall I wear for my Physiotherapy Assessment and Treatment?

Accepted Answer

As part of physiotherapy treatment, we often need to see the area of the body that is injured. If possible, please bring or wear clothing that allows you to expose the area (e.g. shorts/leggings and vest top). Comfortable clothing that you are able to move in, such as gym clothes are normally best. For a pelvic floor consultation, there is no need to wear any particular clothing.

Question 3

What should I bring to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please bring any relevant medical letters or investigations results.

Question 4

What can I expect from my Initial Assessment?

Accepted Answer

Your initial appointment will include completing a full detailed history of your symptoms and discussing the answers supplied on your registration forms. You may also discuss the impact your symptoms have on your relationships, lifestyle and hobbies.

You will then have a thorough physical examination of the symptomatic area, including the joint above and below, the muscles and nerves. If you have come for a women’s health or mummy MOT assessment this may include a pelvic floor assessment.

Following your assessment, you will have a discussion regarding your diagnosis and proposed physio treatment plan. And if time, some hands-on treatment, management advice and home-exercises tailored to you. Follow up treatments are more focussed on progressing your treatment.

Question 5

What treatments do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Our treatment plan is bespoke and individually tailored to your assessment findings. These might include the following:

• Education and advice about your condition
 • Manual (hands-on) therapy - including massage, soft-tissue release, joint mobilisations
 • Scar massage and visceral myofascial release
 • Acupuncture for pain-relief and improving bladder/bowel function
 • Taping
 • Advice and fitting of appropriate support belts in pregnancy
 • Individualised progressive home exercise programs
 • Advice on safe return-to-exercise following pregnancy or surgery
 • Pelvic floor muscle re-education and training - with individualised home exercises, biofeedback and/or electrical stimulation.
 • Pelvic floor manual therapy – stretching, lengthening, massage, trigger-point release for pelvic floor tension, spasm or overactivity. 
 • Relaxation and breathing training techniques
 • Bladder and bowel re-training
 • Lifestyle advice such as fluid management, diet, exercise, stress management

Question 6

Is my appointment confidential?

Accepted Answer

As a health practitioner we have a legal duty to keep information about you confidential. Medical records will be stored securely for the legally required 8 years (25 for minors).

Information will only be shared with your consent with people who have a genuine need for it (e.g. GP, consultant referral, or fitness instructor).

Question 7

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

This depends on each individual. It may be that one educational session is sufficient but some issues that are longer-standing or more complex may require several more. This will be discussed and agreed with you in detail in your first appointment depending what we find on assessment.

Question 8

How can I fund my treatments?

Accepted Answer

Payment for the first appointment is taken at the time of the appointment via cash or card. If you are insured we can invoice your insurance company once you supply your insurance and treatment authorisation details. If you are seeking payment from a cash back policy, you will need to pay for your appointment and we will issue you a receipt to claim back.

Question 9

Can I have my baby/child present at my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes of course! Babies and children are welcome.. However, for your initial appointment or if you think an internal examination may be required it can make it less relaxing for you and more difficult to concentrate on what it is going on, if there is a small person also demanding your attention!

Question 10

Will I need an internal vaginal or rectal examination?

Accepted Answer

If you have come for any pelvic-floor, bladder or bowel issue it is usually beneficial to have an internal vaginal or rectal examination. We will always explain the procedure in detail and show you on a model what we are going to do. We will explain what we can gain from doing it before you decide whether or not you would be willing to consent to an examination. There will always be the option to say "no" or "maybe later" whenever you want. It's always your choice.

Question 11

What happens if I cancel?

Accepted Answer

Please give a minimum of 24 hours notice for cancellations. This ensures that the treatment slot can be made available for other patients. Should you not attend or give less than 24 hours notice to cancel you will be charged a cancellation fee up to 50% of your appointment.

Question 12

What should I wear to Pilates Classes

Accepted Answer

Please wear comfortable clothing and a pair of socks to Pilates classes.

Question 13

Do I need to be flexible or fit to start Pilates?

Accepted Answer

No! Pilates is suitable for all fitness levels. Exercises can be modified to fit beginners or advanced practitioners.

Question 14

What should I wear to a Pilates class?

Accepted Answer

Wear comfortable, form-fitting clothes that allow you to move freely. Avoid very loose clothing, as instructors need to see your posture and alignment.  Please remember to wear socks for hygiene purposes.

Question 15

Do I need to bring my own mat or equipment?

Accepted Answer

All equipment will be provided for classes.

Question 16

Should I eat before class?

Accepted Answer

Avoid heavy meals right before class. A light snack (e.g., fruit or nuts) 30-60 minutes before is ideal.

Question 17

What’s the difference between Mat and Reformer Pilates?

Accepted Answer

Mat Pilates: Uses a mat and body weight for resistance.  
Reformer Pilates: Uses a machine with springs and pulleys for resistance-based training.

Question 18

Which type of Pilates is best for beginners?

Accepted Answer

Both Mat and Reformer classes can be great for beginners. It depends on personal preference and fitness goals.

Question 19

Can Pilates help with back pain or injuries?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Pilates is often recommended for back pain and rehabilitation. An assessment with one of our Physiotherapists prior to starting the classes will allow us to tailor the exercises to you.

Question 20

Is Pilates safe during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but modifications may be needed. Always inform your instructor if you’re pregnant, and check with your doctor or physiotherapist before starting.

Question 21

How often should I do Pilates?

Accepted Answer

Once a week is a great place to start. Consistency is key, Pilates is like a long-term investment in your strength and function rather than a quick fix.

Question 22

How long does it take to see results?

Accepted Answer

Many people notice improved posture, flexibility, and strength within 6-12 weeks depending on your fitness levels.

Specialist Physiotherapy, Pelvic Health and Acupuncture Clinic, Hitchin

Call 01462 415022 Email: enquiries@liddertherapies.co.uk

FAQs

Below is a list of frequently asked questions. If you have a question that is not on our list, please do let us know by using our contact form or emailing us at enquiries@liddertherapies.co.uk