When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
Many people delay seeking physiotherapy, hoping pain resolves spontaneously. While minor aches often improve with rest, persistent symptoms require professional assessment. Knowing when to see a physiotherapist prevents acute problems becoming chronic and ensures timely treatment for optimal recovery.
When should I see a physiotherapist?
See a physiotherapist when pain persists beyond 2-3 weeks, injury significantly limits daily activities, previous self-treatment hasn't worked, you experience recurrent injury episodes, pain worsens despite rest, or you want to prevent injury recurrence. Early intervention produces better outcomes than delayed treatment.
See a physiotherapist when:
Pain Persists - Any musculoskeletal pain lasting over 2-3 weeks requires assessment Function Limited - Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, reaching overhead, or performing work tasks Self-Treatment Failed - Rest, ice, and over-the-counter medication haven't helped after 1-2 weeks Recurring Problems - Same injury keeps returning despite previous recovery Pain Worsening - Symptoms increasing in intensity or frequency Nerve Symptoms - Numbness, tingling, weakness in arms or legs Post-Injury - Sports injuries, falls, accidents Post-Surgery - Following orthopaedic surgery for optimal rehabilitation
Should I see a physiotherapist before getting scans?
Yes, see a physiotherapist before requesting scans for most musculoskeletal problems. Physiotherapists conduct clinical assessment determining whether imaging is necessary. Many conditions diagnose clinically without scans. MRI and X-rays often show age-related changes unrelated to pain. Your GP may refer for scans if physiotherapy assessment indicates serious pathology.
How quickly should I see a physiotherapist after injury?
See a physiotherapist within 3-5 days for acute sports injuries, within 1-2 weeks for work-related strains, and within 2-3 weeks for gradual onset pain. Earlier intervention prevents acute injuries becoming chronic and addresses compensation patterns developing during injury.
Injury timelines:
Immediate (0-48 hours) - Severe injuries with significant swelling, inability to weight-bear, or suspected fracture require A&E assessment first
Acute (3-5 days) - Sports injuries, falls, sudden onset back pain or neck pain
Subacute (1-2 weeks) - Work-related strain, repetitive strain injuries, overuse problems
Chronic (2-3 weeks+) - Persistent pain despite rest and self-management
Can I see a physiotherapist without a GP referral?
Yes, you can see a private physiotherapist without GP referral. Direct access allows immediate booking for assessment and treatment. However, some health insurance policies require GP referrals for claims. NHS physiotherapy typically requires GP referral, though some areas offer self-referral schemes.
Learn about options: NHS vs Private Physiotherapy
What conditions do physiotherapists treat?
Physiotherapists treat back pain, neck pain, sports injuries, knee injuries, shoulder pain, arthritis, sciatica, post-operative rehabilitation, neurological conditions, women's health problems, and chronic pain.
Find a Physiotherapist in London
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it too late to see a physiotherapist if my injury happened months ago?
No, it's never too late for physiotherapy. Chronic conditions benefit from assessment addressing compensation patterns and biomechanical issues. Even long-standing problems improve with targeted treatment.
Can physiotherapy help if I've already tried everything?
Yes, comprehensive physiotherapy assessment often identifies issues missed by previous treatments. Specialist physiotherapists address underlying biomechanical causes rather than just symptoms.