All of your London physiotherapy questions answered

We aim to be the industry leader in transparency and ensure our clients are fully educated and relaxed before and during their treatment sessions.

We value your time. We value transparency. And we want to ensure that you have as smooth a client journey as possible.

FAQS

Yes. We will send you a registration form via SMS when you book your first appointment.

Please note that we will not be able to start your treatment unless this has been completed.

Please give yourself time to complete this before the start of the session.

We are nothing like the rest.

  • Our therapists receive over 5x the required training.
  • We are entirely results-based and take pride in giving a high-quality service with 1000s of successful clinical treatments delivered. 
  • Open seven days a week, our award-winning London physios operate from custom-built, spacious, modern rehab hubs located within minutes’ walking distance from major train links.
  • Our therapists blend expert rehab exercises and deep (good deep!) massage treatments. We don’t just give exercises on a sheet.
  • Our trusted therapists are non-commissioned, and you will never be oversold treatments.

We also offer a service guarantee for our self-pay treatment sessions. If you are unhappy with your treatment – your next session is free.

Still unsure? Book a no-obligation free session today and visit one of our clinic hubs.

The answer is yes.

We have delivered thousands of successful clinical sessions and have experience with many variations of muscular pains and injuries.

If you have any questions before coming to your first session, feel free to contact us and we’ll get back to you right away.

Our team of expert London physiotherapists have extensive experience and knowledge with musculoskeletal & sporting injuries and are qualified in the use of a very broad range of treatment techniques:

Deep tissue sports massage

Cupping therapy

Acupuncture and dry needling (Only specific therapists. Please check our team page).

Gym-based rehabilitation

Joint manipulation and mobilisation

Gait reeducation

Sports-specific rehabilitation

Soft tissue, trigger point & myofascial release

Our opening hours vary by location. Click the links below to find out the opening hours for each venue:

One Body LDN – London Bridge

One Body LDN – Old Street

One Body LDN – Farringdon

We try to keep things simple for everyone, as we all have different preferences.

To book an appointment at One Body you can either:

We accept all credit and debit cards.

We also accept all forms of private health insurance.

You will get more from your treatment with us if you are able to think about your issue and what you want to get out of your physiotherapy session beforehand. 

Below are some questions that you are likely to be asked by your physiotherapist:

  • What are your treatment goals?
  • Where are you experiencing your pain?
  • When did the problem first start?
  • What caused your pain?
  • What aggravates your pain or makes it feel better?

Yes, most major health insurance companies will cover your Physiotherapy treatments.

For more information on using your medical insurance at One Body, please check out our page here.

Please contact your insurance company before booking your appointment.
It’s best to confirm the level of cover you have and whether you’ll need a GP or consultant referral letter.

We understand the confusion that can arise around this process, so please do get in touch if you need help. You’ll get the best advice possible to get your sessions covered.

We do our best to make your insurance process as smooth as possible. If your insurer covers Physiotherapy, we can bill them directly.

We can bill the following insurance companies for your treatment fees:

Physiotherapy – Axa PPP, Bupa, Bupa International, Vitality, Aviva, Cigna, WPA, Aetna, Healix, HCML, Nuffield Health, Health Shield and Simplyhealth.

If your insurance company is not listed above, don’t worry, this is not an exhaustive list. Don’t hesitate to contact us, and we will confirm with you.

To do this, you must provide us with your policy details before your treatment. These include;

Your insurer
Policy number
Authorisation code
Treatment allowance
Excess details

You cannot claim for missed or cancelled appointments or any equipment bought.

Yes. You can easily book this online, or please tell us of your preference if you book your appointment over the phone.

For full information on pricing, please check out our dedicated PRICING PAGE.

Our therapists hold degrees in their professions and are all DBS checked.

Our Osteopaths register with the General Osteopathic Council.

Our Physiotherapists register with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists and the Health and Care Professions Council.

Our therapists have training in Sports Massage.

For Acupuncture, they’re members of The Health Professions Acupuncture Group and The Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists.

Your therapist will take a full case history. We’ll ask about your symptoms, medication, family history of illness and more.

Next is a detailed examination of your posture, joints, muscles and movements. We may perform other clinical tests such as reflexes and blood pressure.

After testing, your therapist will have a working diagnosis. We can now start treatment, including hands-on therapy, advice and exercise rehab.

We’ll also discuss and tailor a treatment plan for you going forward.

Yes and no. We aim to make your treatment as comfortable as possible for you.

With our hands-on sessions, we want instant and long term changes in your body. Some techniques we use can be quite tender as we press into specific tense or tight points. You may feel some discomfort here and there, but this should be “good pain” – a nice release.

With Acupuncture, the biggest problem is usually the patients’ anticipation of pain. When we insert the needles, most are pleasantly surprised, and some feel nothing at all. It’s normal to feel a mild pricking sensation. Once the needle is in, you may feel an aching or warm sensation.

You may feel minor stiffness or soreness for 1-2 days post-treatment. This is normal and healthy. It’s like what you might feel after working out.

All this aside, the typical treatment is a pleasurable, not painful. Often patients feel instantly more comfortable afterwards.

All treatment you receive is with your consent. If you’re ever feeling uncomfortable, let your therapist know. There are plenty of alternative technique options available.

The number of sessions needed depends on the condition and the person we’re treating. Your therapist will give you an accurate plan of treatments during your first visit.

As a rule of thumb; for acute cases, you can expect dramatic improvements in 4-6 sessions. You’ll often feel reduced pain from the first session.

Generally, the longer you’ve had the problem, the longer it will take to resolve. Your tissues, postures and condition will have changed over time. Changes like these can take time to return to optimal.

We’re here to help you! And what we can assure you of is complete transparency. We don’t aim to over or under-treat. We aim to get you better in the shortest amount of time possible.

No. If you’re paying for treatment, then you don’t need to see your GP first.

If using private insurance, some companies may need a GP referral. Please check with your private insurance company before making an appointment.

Osteopaths and Physiotherapists are Primary Care Practitioners. A lot of doctors would recommend you come to us for treatment.

Unless you request otherwise, we may send a letter to your GP. This is to liaise and inform him/her of your condition and to best care for you.

Yes. We offer workplace assessments, aka Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessments.

Whether you’re an employer or an employee; we cater to all needs, budgets and workforce sizes.

The Health and Safety Regulations apply to workers who use DSE daily, for an hour or more at a time. These employees are legally entitled to a workstation assessment. The law applies whether users are at a fixed workstation, mobile, at home or hot-desking.

Incorrect use of DSE and poor workstations can lead to pain, fatigue and eye strain. DSE assessments ensure that employees are not at risk of developing these conditions.

Our therapists will carry out an in-depth assessment of your working environment. You’ll receive a report documenting any adjustments made and further recommendations.

Employees – feel better day-to-day, no more pain at your desk.

Employers – reduce sick leave and health care costs, improve employee wellbeing.

Please contact us to discuss your requirements and to arrange a DSE assessment.

No, unfortunately not.

Having treatment during an illness could make your symptoms worse. You may also pass the virus onto your therapist, who could then pass this onto other clients. So please be kind by not sharing.

Health is a lifestyle – don’t wait for an injury or drop in performance to happen!

You are your best investment. We encourage proactive treatments so that you get the most out of each day. Many of our patients have regular sessions to help maintain their healthy bodies.

You may work in an office or have added in weekend warrior activities. Take the time to address your muscle tensions, your posture, lifestyle factors.

Let’s deal with those aches and pains before they become a problem. You’ll feel better, move better and be pain-free longer.

To provide the best possible service to all our clients, we ask you to contact us if you are running late. We can attempt to make all necessary arrangements to ensure our specialist sees you. 

As our clinics are very busy, we may ask you to reschedule your appointment or wait for an available slot so that all our patients receive the best possible service.

Suppose you are more than 10 minutes late for your appointment without our prior agreement. In that case, we may consider you to have failed to attend, and we will process a “Did Not Attend” fee equal to the value of your session.

No. You do not need to bring any ID to your appointment.

Visit our locations page and select your clinic for more information about how to find us and what to do when you arrive.

You will also have received an email and SMS confirming your appointment details when you booked with us. 

Visit our locations page and select your clinic location for more information on travel and parking. 

You will never have to worry that your personal data is being stored inappropriately, managed badly or shared with anyone that it shouldn’t be.  

We take data security and patient privacy seriously. All of our employees receive regular training and we invest in award-winning clinical software, which means that we are able to maintain the highest standards of data security.

Yes, this can be helpful throughout all stages of pregnancy. These treatments are effective for relieving pregnancy-related aches, pains and strains. Your therapist will take great care and use the appropriate techniques for you.

The first trimester carries a naturally high risk of miscarriage. If you’re pregnant for less than 12 weeks, we will need consent from your GP for treatment.

While you’re pregnant, you will not receive Acupuncture treatments from our therapists.

Yes, Physiotherapy and Acupuncture are very safe.

Treatments generally leave a pleasurable feeling. Most of our clients visit through word of mouth recommendation – so there are a lot of happy clients!

Side effects are generally rare. You may feel stiffness or soreness for 1-2 days after. Like the feeling after too much unaccustomed exercise; this usually goes away quickly.

Post treatments, you may feel more tired/relaxed than usual. Drink plenty of water and get an early night.

Severe adverse reactions are very rare. Our therapists have the training to screen patients and their suitability for treatment. Your safety is our priority.

There’s been a concern in the media about neck manipulations or “clicking”. Damage to the vertebral artery via manipulation is extremely rare.
In fact – according to a research review carried out in 2010 by the National Council for Osteopathic Research – spinal manipulation was much safer than taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines.

With your consent, our therapists can manipulate in a safe, expert manner.

You’re more than welcome to bring a companion with you.

Please be aware that they’ll hear and see everything your therapist will during your appointment.

We do not accept patients under the age of 16 without a parent or guardian being present at all times.

If you’ve booked an appointment with us and cannot get childcare, please feel free to bring your child with you. They’re more than welcome.

If you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, we require 24 hours advance notice. If you cancel within 24 hours, we will process a cancellation fee equal to the value of your session.

With prepaid or insurance sessions, we will therefore deduct the value of your session from your allowance.

This notice period is an industry-standard for medical practitioners.

Please contact if you’re unsure about attending your appointment.

At One Body, full diagnosis and treatment may involve viewing the body as a whole.

In this instance, it is ideal for patients to undress to their underwear, but not compulsory. We respect your privacy and dignity at all times.

If you don’t want to undress, then please wear comfortable clothing. Loose tops, shorts, leggings; clothes that you can move around in – will work.

You do not need to turn up in sports wear. You can get changed or undress in our private rooms if this is necessary.

When we treat, we will also protect your dignity with towels. 

It’s not essential to bring anything with you.

If you do have the following, then please bring them along;

Referral letter from your GP or consultant.

X-ray or scan results that you have relating to your condition.

Lists of any medication or supplements you’re taking.

Any orthotics, braces or supports you use.

If you’re in pain due to wearing certain items such as running shoes, bring them.

If using private health insurance, then your full insurance details and claim number.

We treat from age 7 upwards. All our therapists are DBS checked.

Please note that a parent or responsible adult should accompany children under 16.

If you need Physiotherapy for a younger child, we have paediatric Physiotherapists we can refer you to. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more details.

No, we currently do not offer home visits.

If you fail to attend your treatment session or are more than 10 minutes late, we will deem you missed your appointment. We will then process a “Did Not Attend” fee equal to the value of your session.

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Physiotherapy is a healthcare practice focused on helping individuals recover from injury, illness, or pain, enhancing their ability to move and perform daily activities.

It empowers people to overcome physical limitations and supports a fuller, more active lifestyle.

Through various treatments and guidance, physiotherapy is instrumental in improving overall physical functionality and quality of life.

Yes, treatments are very safe.

Physiotherapists are recognised and degree-qualified medical professionals.

At One Body, we also provide our therapists 5x the required amount of annual training.

We uphold the highest safety standards and take our responsibilities as a healthcare provider seriously, which is why all major private health insurers trust us.

Treatments generally leave a pleasurable feeling. Most of our clients visit through word-of-mouth recommendations, so there are a lot of happy clients!

Side effects are generally rare. You may feel stiffness or soreness for 1-2 days after. Like the feeling after too much unaccustomed exercise, this usually goes away quickly.

Severe adverse reactions are incredibly rare, and we train our therapists to screen patients and determine their suitability for treatment. Your safety is our priority.

Physiotherapy, a core treatment in the rehabilitation field, aims to enhance and restore functional ability and quality of life for those with physical impairments or disabilities.

It employs techniques like exercise, manual therapy, and advice to tackle various conditions, particularly musculoskeletal issues, fostering recovery and promoting overall well-being.

Physiotherapy is widely utilised by a diverse group, including corporate workers and athletes.

Corporate employees often seek physiotherapy for posture-related issues and repetitive strain injuries, which are common in office environments.

Athletes, on the other hand, use physiotherapy for injury prevention and to enhance performance by improving strength, flexibility, and endurance. 

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal health, as it aids in restoring movement and function when affected by injury, illness, disability, or pain.

This medical practice is essential for holistic well-being, as it addresses specific physical issues and promotes general physical health, which is vital for daily life activities.

By focusing on rehabilitation and preventive care, physiotherapy ensures individuals can continue to lead active and fulfilling lives.

Physiotherapy and massage therapy, while overlapping in their goals of improving physical function and reducing pain, differ significantly in their approaches.

Physiotherapy encompasses various treatments, including exercises, manual therapy, and rehabilitation techniques, to relieve pain and restore movement and function.

Massage therapy, on the other hand, focuses primarily on hands-on techniques aimed at muscle relaxation and tension relief.

When deciding between physiotherapy and osteopathy, consider your specific health needs.

Physiotherapy focuses on directly helping to restore function and decrease pain through hands-on massage treatments and exercise rehabilitation.

Osteopathy, however, takes a more holistic approach, looking at the entire body, not just the symptomatic area, and often involves manipulative joint techniques.

To find the best physiotherapy in London, start by researching clinics specialising in your specific needs, whether sports injuries, chronic pain, or rehabilitation. Look for qualified, experienced physiotherapists with positive reviews and a track record of successful treatments.

Additionally, consider the clinic’s location, accessibility, and the range of services offered to ensure they align with your requirements. Personal recommendations and online testimonials can also be valuable in making an informed decision.

Physiotherapy is an excellent choice for various issues, including tendinopathies, sprains, strains, joint problems, arthritis pain, pre and post-surgery rehab, and sports injuries.

It’s also effective for gait analysis, postural improvement, ergonomic assessments, sports technique development, and chronic pain management.

Whether you’re dealing with pregnancy-related musculoskeletal pain, work-related injuries, or seeking performance optimisation, physiotherapy offers a tailored approach to aid in recovery and enhance overall physical function.

Physiotherapy is particularly beneficial for sports injuries, back and neck pain, and rehabilitation post-surgery or fractures.

Physiotherapy also addresses ligament and muscle tears, tendon issues, arthritis, joint conditions, and work-related pain.

Additionally, it offers specialised care in pre and post-natal problems, including pelvic organ-related pain, and effectively treats specific injuries related to running and cycling. 

 

You should consider seeing a physiotherapist not only when experiencing severe pain or post-injury but also as a preventive measure for overall health.

Physiotherapy is beneficial for a range of issues, from minor day-to-day discomforts to enhancing sports performance, improving general mobility, aiding post-hospital recovery, and managing chronic conditions like arthritis.

Regular physio sessions help maintain and improve your physical well-being.

 

Physiotherapy elevates your health by restoring movement and function when affected by injury, illness, disability, or pain.

A professional physiotherapist combines various therapies and techniques, including soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, and exercise therapy, alongside lifestyle advice to achieve optimal results. 

SPORTS MASSAGE

Deep tissue sports massage is a specialised therapy targeting deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue.

It’s particularly beneficial for chronic aches and pain, focusing on areas of tension and injury.

Ideal for athletes and active individuals, this massage technique enhances recovery, reduces muscle stiffness, and improves flexibility, aiding in better athletic performance.

Sports massages are highly beneficial, especially for athletes and physically active individuals.

They are crucial in injury prevention, recovery, and performance enhancement. Regular sports massages can improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and aid in quicker recovery, making them a valuable investment for your physical health and sports performance.

Sports massages are excellent for overall physical health and athletic performance.

They aid in relieving muscle tension, improving circulation, and reducing the risk of injury.

Regular sports massages can also accelerate recovery from workouts, making them a beneficial component of any active person’s regimen.

Sports massages can be intense but should not be excessively painful.

They are designed to work deep into the muscle to release tension and knots.

While some discomfort is common, especially in areas with tight muscles, a professional therapist will ensure the pressure is within your comfort threshold.

Sports massages may cause discomfort due to the deep pressure applied to release muscle tension and knots.

This discomfort is a part of the healing process, as it helps break down adhesions and improve blood flow.

However, a skilled therapist will balance this with your comfort level.

When performed by a qualified therapist, sports massages are generally safe and beneficial.

However, excessive pressure or incorrect techniques can cause discomfort or minor injuries.

Choosing a reputable therapist in London who understands your body’s limits and needs is essential.

While sports massage is typically safe, there’s a small risk of injury if not performed correctly.

It’s crucial to seek treatment from licensed and experienced sports massage and physiotherapists who can tailor the massage to your body’s needs and ensure that the techniques are safe and effective.

Sports massage is highly effective in enhancing athletic performance, reducing muscle tension, and preventing injury.

It works by improving circulation, flexibility, and overall muscle health.

Sports massage is a proven treatment method for maintaining physical well-being and enhancing sports performance.

Sports massage significantly aids in recovery by accelerating the healing process of muscles.

It improves blood circulation, which helps remove toxins faster and increases oxygen and nutrient supply to the muscles. This reduces muscle soreness and speeds up recovery times, making it a popular choice for athletes worldwide.

Choosing between sports massage and physiotherapy depends on your specific needs.

Sports massage is ideal for muscle recovery and tension relief, while physiotherapy addresses a wider range of physical issues, including injury rehabilitation and mobility improvement.

At One Body in London, we uniquely combine both treatments in the same session, offering a comprehensive 360 degree approach that caters to both muscular and overall bodily health.