7 Top Tips for choosing the Right Physiotherapist for you

Choosing the right Physiotherapist for your care can be a daunting task if you do not know what to look for. Whether you have an ache or pain, recovering from a sport injury, or have had/ waiting for a surgery. With several options available, finding the right physio for your needs can be the difference in your journey to recovery.Please see the top seven tips below to guide you with your search.

1. Check if the Physiotherapist is HCPC and CSP registered

The HCPC is the regulatory body for physiotherapists and some other allied health professions (AHPs). To practise as a physiotherapist in the UK you must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

https://www.hcpc-uk.org/check-the-register/

The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) is the professional, educational and trade union body for the UKs 65,000 chartered physiotherapists, physiotherapy students and support workers. Physiotherapists registered with the HCPC and CSP meet the standards for professionals education and training and practice in the UK. You can be assured that the physiotherapist is licensed to practice and meets the required standards.

2.  Check their qualifications and credentials

Researching their qualifications and credentials can help you to get excellent quality of care. This is generally available on their website!

 * Check if they have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Physiotherapy.

*  If they hold memberships with affiliated organisations-This is an evidence for meeting professional standards and development.

* Look if they have specialist certifications/training which can demonstrate their expertise in that area.

*  If they have a strong continuous professional development record which will show commitment to ongoing education.

3.  Check their area of expertise and number of years of experience

Check if they are experienced as they could have treated similar problems several times which can improve outcomes and contribute towards better quality of care. Physiotherapy is a vast field and has multiple areas of specialisation like cardiac rehab, geriatrics, vestibular physiotherapy. It is particularly important that you see a physiotherapist who has specialised in the area of your needs. At accord we specialise in musculoskeletal and sports medicine.

4. The Philosophy of their care

The philosophy of care of a practice reflects their principles, values and belief which direct their services. At Accord, our Philosophy is patient centred care, educating our patients is the cornerstone of our approach, a service that is offered with compassion that patients can trust.

5. Clinic facilities and availability

An excellent clinic should offer a relaxed environment which is clean, accessible, friendly, and well equipped. Always look for the location, parking facility as you may require visiting few times.

The NHS is under unprecedented demand and the wait could be longer. How soon you can get your appointment is the key to your recovery. Check for their availability to ensure it suits your schedule and your home location.

At accord we offer evenings and weekend appointments to suit your schedule.

6. Check for their treatment approach

Knowing your goals and what you would like to achieve from the treatment will help you to navigate your search for the right physio for you. It is particularly important to have a patient centred care pinned on evidence base. Some therapists have a hands-on approach, others use different techniques like acupuncture, taping and electrotherapy. Look for an approach that is evidenced based and which will suit your needs!

7. Check for reviews and testimonials

Always check for reviews and feedback from the clinic website or other sources as this could give you valuable insights into the physiotherapist’s skills, experience, and professionalism. A pattern of excellent reviews can assure you of the standard of service you could expect from the practice and could be incredibly helpful in making your decision.

All the best with your search!