Physiotherapy in the UK: Everything you need to know
Health Prem takes a look at physiotherapy in the UK, including what physiotherapy is, what conditions it can help to treat and how to access physiotherapy near you.
4 minute read Before going any further, what is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a specialism within healthcare that focuses on physical movement and function. It uses a holistic approach that treats the whole body rather than focusing on the illness or injury and can be used to treat a range of illnesses, injuries, and disabilities. Physiotherapy aims to restore movement and function, minimise dysfunction or reduce the risk of future illness or injury.
Physiotherapy techniques
Physiotherapists use a range of techniques when treating patients. The type of treatment you receive depends on your symptoms and diagnosis. Your physiotherapist will assess your symptoms and create a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Some common physiotherapy techniques include:
Manual therapy — involves various techniques where your physiotherapist uses their hands to relieve pain and stiffness and improve mobility
Therapeutic exercise — your physiotherapist may teach you a range of exercises to build strength and improve flexibility and range of motion
Acupuncture — a traditional Chinese medicine that can be used to relieve pain and inflammation and promote healing
Electrotherapy — uses electricity to reduce pain, improve circulation, repair tissues, and strengthen muscles
Hydrotherapy — involves exercises in warm water to relax and strengthen muscles, improve range of motion, reduce pain, and improve coordination and balance
Physiotherapists also provide education and advice on areas such as posture, correct lifting techniques, and practical advice on managing your condition.
What conditions can physiotherapy treat?
Physiotherapy can help treat a range of conditions including:
Conditions affecting the bones, joints and soft tissues including fibromyalgia, arthritis and sports injuries
Conditions affecting the brain and nervous system and movement disorders related to multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease or stroke
Conditions affecting the lungs including cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Rehabilitation after surgery, injury, or illness
Where do physiotherapists work?
In 2023 there were approximately 66,000 physiotherapists working in the UK, a significant increase from 44,000 in 2010. Of these, around 57% work in the NHS, and 24% in the private sector.
Physiotherapists in the UK work in a variety of settings including:
Hospitals
NHS health centres or clinics
The community
GP surgeries
Private businesses, sports teams, or charities
Higher education, schools, research facilities or academia
Is physiotherapy available on the NHS?
Physiotherapy is available for free on the NHS, however waiting lists are often lengthy. In some areas, you can refer yourself for physiotherapy without needing to see a doctor first, while in others you need a referral from your GP or consultant.
Can I pay for physiotherapy privately?
There are many private physiotherapists throughout the UK. One of the major benefits of paying to see a private physiotherapist is a much shorter waiting time — you can normally expect to be seen within a week. Appointments are usually more flexible and may be longer than with an NHS physiotherapist.
There is also no limit to the number of physiotherapy sessions you can receive as may be the case with some NHS physiotherapists. You don’t need a referral from a doctor to see a private physiotherapist.
Some health insurance policies may include a set number of physiotherapy appointments as part of your coverage— check with your provider. Some private health insurance companies require a doctor’s referral to access private physiotherapy.
Do NHS and private physiotherapists have the same qualifications?
Physiotherapists in the UK must complete a degree in physiotherapy and be registered with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP), a national body that governs standards within the profession. This is true for both NHS and private physiotherapists.
NHS and private physiotherapists normally have the same experience and expertise and offer the same treatments. Some physiotherapists may work in both the NHS and the private sector.
Can a private physiotherapist refer you to a specialist?
If your private physiotherapist feels that your condition needs further investigation, they may refer you back to your GP for tests such as X-rays or scans or an onward referral to a specialist.
How much does private physiotherapy cost?
The cost of private physiotherapy depends on whereabouts you live in the UK. The most expensive area is London with an average cost of £101.60 for a 60-minute initial assessment, and the cheapest is Glasgow with an initial assessment costing an average of £59.13.
On average, a 60-minute initial assessment with a private physiotherapist in the UK is £75.07 and the average cost of follow-up consultations (30 minutes) is £52.81.
How can I find a physiotherapist near me?
For a referral to an NHS physiotherapist, your first port of call is normally your GP. In some cases, you may be able to see a physiotherapist without a referral from your GP, check with your practice for more information. You can check NHS physiotherapy services in your area here.
To access a private physiotherapist, you can search the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy’s physio2u directory for private physiotherapy services near you.
