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FAQ’s

How Many Patients Do You Serve at the Spinal Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine Clinic?

Currently there are over 7,500 patients registered with us. That’s equivalent to an average sized GP practice.

What are the most common conditions you treat?
  • 55% of patients we treat are for problems with back &/or neck pain.
  • 24% are for joint problems – Shoulder, knee, hip, elbow, ankle.
  • 12% are for foot disorders.
  • 9% are for soft tissue problems such as tendinopathy, ligament sprains and muscle strains that are not otherwise associated with a joint problem above.
How many appointments can I expect to need?

Average number of sessions to discharge across all diagnosis = 4.41

​Some conditions take more, some take less and each individual is different.

How do patients report their outcome at the end of treatment?
  • 79% of patients self report that their condition is resolved.
  • 90% report they are at least 75% better. (Includes the 79% above who are fully better).
  • 6% report to be between 50-75% better
  • 3% report to have some improvement 25-50% better.
  • 2% report no improvement.
What happens if I am not improving?

In approximately 10% of cases we will need to refer on for a specialist opinion or further investigation. This may be imaging such as an MRI scan which we can arrange if necessary or write to your GP to arrange some blood tests or X-rays. In some cases it is obvious from the beginning that surgery will be required and we will refer accordingly. Having seen a physio, being assessed and having a letter to your GP or consultant in itself can be a great assistance in getting you the help you need. In almost 90% of cases however physio will result in the issue being resolved or at least 75% better.

When should I see a physiotherapist?

Primarily you may want to see a physiotherapist if you have what’s known as a musculoskeletal disorder.

Musculoskeletal disorders are the most common occupational illness in the UK, affecting millions of people a year. They include problems such as low back pain, neck pain, joint injuries and repetitive strain type injuries as well as sorts injuries.

If you have any musculoskeletal problem as a result of work, an injury at home or through sport or an accident or you don’t really know how or why, you should see a chartered physiotherapist.

There is no definitive answer as to who should be seen but generally, if you have pain that lasts for more than 48 hours without relief you need to seek a professional opinion. You can contact the clinic on 01223 350622 and we will advise you accordingly.

Some common conditions that physiotherapists see frequently and that you may recognise are listed in the Services & What We Treat section. Here you will find some general advice as to how to best manage these problems before you see your physiotherapist.

What to expect when you see a physiotherapist?

The physiotherapist will ask you to sit down (if you can) at their desk and run through a subjective examination. This involves some details that may be significant to your problem such as previous injuries, medications, x-rays or scans you may have had etc.

They will then ask you specific questions about the problem you have presented with such as where the pain is, how long you have had this problem for, what aggravates it and what eases it. There are no right or wrong answers but the subjective exam helps to narrow down the possibilities.

Once that is done, which usually takes about 5 minutes, the physiotherapist will then examine the problem. This usually involves a series of simple movements or tests within comfortable limits. For example if you have presented with back pain they will ask you to bend forward, backwards, from side to side. Simple tests to establish if you have a “trapped nerve” associated with your back pain may involve reflex testing, or moving the legs while you are lying down. These are very simple tests and nothing to be concerned about.

It is important that the physiotherapist can examine the area affected so appropriate clothing is important. Dignity will be respected at all times. If your back is to be examined they will probably ask you to roll your shirt/blouse up so your back can be seen. If you have a problem with your legs it is best to bring a pair of shorts if you can, so that your knee or hip can be seen if that is the problem. Similarly, if it is your neck or shoulder area, clothing should be loose enough to expose the relevant parts.

Once these tests have been carried out the physiotherapist will palpate the area to identify any abnormalities and establish the diagnosis if possible.

When the examination is complete the physiotherapist will explain to you what the nature of your problem is. They will formulate a management plan which may range from simple advice or may involve a course of treatment.

How do I make an appointment?
The easiest way to make an appointment is to call the clinic on 01223 350622, or by booking an appointment online. We offer both face to face and virtual consultations. For more information about virtual consultations please visit our Online Consultation page.
Do I need to see my GP?

It is not necessary to see your GP prior to making an appointment.

Some insurance companies require a referral from your GP in order to cover the cost of treatment. It is important to check with your relevant insurance company before you attend for treatment.

How do I know my physiotherapist is qualified?

The Spinal Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine Clinic only employs Fully Qualified Chartered Physiotherapists who are registered with the Health Professions Council.

Kevin Hunt is the principle Physiotherapist who is a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP) and holds a Masters degree in Sports medicine. He has worked in both the public and private sector and has been in Private practice for over 15 years. He has published work on Acupuncture and Frozen shoulder and has also carried out research into Exercise and Sleep, Spondylolysis in Golf, The effectiveness of Creatine on Multiple Sprint performance in Ice Hockey and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Instability testing. He is the expert author on sports injuries for Living Sport magazine and has lectured on injury prevention and management in horse racing at University level.

Kevin Hunt’s membership numbers:

  • CSP: 070713
  • HCPC: PH61472
  • Aviva Provider No.: 600028646
  • Cigna: 000M123370
  • WPA Provider No.: 3718783

Charles Smith is a Chartered Physiotherapist who graduated from St. George’s University of London and has spent 7 years working in both the National Health Service and private practice.

Charles training in the National Health Service included core rotations of general medicine, respiratory and out-patients. Over the last 5 years Charles has focused on musculoskeletal practice including post-operative cases, sports rehabilitation and day to day musculoskeletal complaints.

Charles Smith’s memberships numbers:

  • CSP: 093003
  • HCPC: PH 102474
  • Aviva: 600095150
  • Cigna: 000M123370
  • WPA: 920963616

Information about the appropriate governing bodies relating to Physiotherapy and Acupuncture can be found in the Treatments section of the web site.

What Our Clients Say

Here are some of the things patients have had to say about our clinic and are happy for us to share with you.

Mike Wyatt
Mike Wyatt
2023-05-26
I’ve had a great experience here. Charles has helped me understand the causes of and how to treat my back and neck pain. Fiona is always helpful, and flexible when I’ve needed to reschedule my appointments.
Eileen Diss
Eileen Diss
2023-05-21
Spinal Physio is an exceptional physiotherapy practice. Fiona, at Reception, is very efficient yet creates a warm and friendly atmosphere. I would recommend Kevin to anyone in need of physiotherapy; he is an outstandingly skilled professional. His treatment plan incorporates manageable, targeted exercises to boost recovery. He is keen to educate about your diagnosis and has motivates you to make small lifestyle changes that improve your health and well-being. Thank you, Kevin - I'm really looking forward to more wit and wisdom in your book!
JEREMY WHITTON SPRIGGS
JEREMY WHITTON SPRIGGS
2023-05-12
I was recommended to Kevin by my neighbour and was fortunate in being able to get an appointment within a very few days. I was walking skewed over and in some discomfort. From the very first minutes of enquiry and analysis it was absolutely clear that Kevin not only had enormous skill and experience but that he was an exceptionally warm and caring human being. The conversations over the course of my treatment were wide ranging and fascinating and I was delughted to hear that he was going to distil his experience and his holistic philosopy into a book. I shall be buying it today!! I should of course also add that the first exercises and then the development of his programme with the strengthening sequences were entirely successful and add up to a complete preventative process. I've since recommended him to my wife and to other friends. Coincidentally, we had a conversation last night with someone who was telling up about an extraordinarily successful physiotherapy treatment with a holistic... he got no further "that must have been Kevin" we chorused. And indeed it was! He confirmed that the lifestyle advice he'd received had led to a change of emphasis and a balancing approach to life and exercise. He hadn't needed to go back. So Kevin treats you, advises you, and in the nicest and most professionally wonderful way, provides you with the tools to never see him again. Thank you Kevin and I look forward to reading the book. Jeremy
Joachim Whaley
Joachim Whaley
2023-04-27
Kevin Hunt is one of the very best! His diagnosis was clear, his treatment effective, and his emphasis on the patient working hard on exercises between sessions was salutary. The clinic was always clean and friendly, and it's easy to get to. I can't recommend Kevin and his clinic more highly.
Karen Barry
Karen Barry
2023-04-19
Kevin has transformed my life, from visiting him 3 times a week to now maintenance every few weeks, enabling me to enjoy my regular running and circuit gym sessions.
Paul Cowell
Paul Cowell
2023-04-05
Kevin Hunt has treated various muscular-skeletal problems I've had in recent years. He has great diagnostic and inter-personal skills and is entirely focused on dealing with a particular problem during treatment sessions. In addition Kevin is always ready to recommend an appropriate, targeted and manageable exercise regime to assist the patient between treatment sessions. Overall he is an outstanding physiotherapist. Spinal Physio is a friendly and extremely well-administered practice.
K S
K S
2023-03-31
Very effective treatment program and always efficient and welcoming
Vanya Eccles
Vanya Eccles
2023-03-30
Really excellent, in only a few sessions (with additional exercises at home) I noticed a huge difference in my lower back. Charles felt extremely competent and knowledgeable. Can feel expensive but thankfully only 5 or 6 sessions were needed in my case, and at the end of the day worth every penny. Health is wealth! Thank you Fiona and Charles
Andy Stonebridge
Andy Stonebridge
2023-03-30
I arrived for my first physio session due to a back injury and was probably at the lowest point in my life!. I had lost a lot of mobility and parts of my body was numb which was a real concern. Through continued sessions I have received physio treatment and was given a progressive exercise plan to follow which completely resolved my mobility and numbness issues. Furthermore to this I was equally impressed with the reassurance I received on each session, all my concerns and doubts were answered and I came out of each session happier. All I can say is thank you Charles