What to Expect

ASSESSMENT

A full examination will be carried out at the first appointment which will involve a detailed account of the patient’s current problem as well as their past medical history. Sandra believes in treating patients with a holistic approach, so previous injuries, illnesses and health problems may be significant.

Following the written assessment a full examination will be carried out. This will include range of movement and palpation of the affected part. During the examination Sandra will note any abnormal movement patterns, joint stiffness, muscle wasting or spasm, swelling, postural problems or disrupted walking patterns. She will then formulate a treatment plan together with the patient, which may include manual therapy, electrotherapy, heat/ice, massage, acupuncture, advice and exercises. Specific exercises for the problem area will be given for the patient to carry out at home. Sandra prefers to prescribe exercises which can be done little and often, and which fit with the patients’ lifestyle.

Most conditions will respond to physiotherapy and patients can usually expect to attend on a weekly basis between 2 and 6 times. Sometimes a final appointment may be appropriate a few weeks later.

Sandra is registered with most of the major private health care providers, eg BUPA, Norwich Union, Standard Life and others.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

PAIN RELIEF

Acupuncture – migraine/headaches, arthritis, whiplash injuries, back pain
Electrotherapy – sports injuries, muscular/ligament strains & sprains
Heat & Ice therapy – muscular strains, joint sprains, sports injuries & spinal pain

MANUAL THERAPY

Manipulation/mobilisation techniques – stiffness/pain in spine or other joints
Hands on' soft tissue techniques – tennis elbow, trigger point release, deep transverse frictions
Massage – for tension/tight muscles pre and post treatment

EXERCISE THERAPY

Exercises/stretches – to regain muscle length and joint range.
Core Stability exercises – to retrain core stability muscles to prevent recurrence of condition
Rehabilitation – functional exercises to facilitate speedy return to normal lifestyle

ERGONOMIC AND WORKPLACE ADVICE – i.e working positions, computer workstations etc.