What happens at your first appointment

Some people arrive not quite sure what to expect. Here is exactly how the first appointment goes at our clinic at The Edge in Haslemere, so you can turn up knowing what happens and get straight on with it.

Book online01428 642577
Therapist assists patient with bent leg stretch on treatment table in bright room

Before you arrive

Allow 45 minutes

An initial physiotherapy consultation lasts 45 minutes. Follow up treatment sessions are usually half an hour. Arriving five minutes early gives you time to settle rather than rush in.

Wear something comfortable

Loose clothing, or shorts and a vest top, so we can see and move the area that is bothering you. If the problem is in your shoulder or back, a top you are happy to have moved or removed helps.

Bring what you already have

Any scan results, letters from a consultant or GP, and a list of medication you take. If you have insurance, bring your policy number and authorisation code.

Parking is free

There is a car park at The Edge on Woolmer Hill with spaces right by the entrance, and step free access into the building.

Book at a time that suits you

You can book online at any hour, or ring reception during the day if you would rather talk it through with someone first.

Book online

You do not need a referral

Anyone can book directly with us. You do not need to see your GP first and you do not need a referral letter. Some insurers ask for a GP referral before they will cover treatment, so it is worth checking your policy if you plan to claim, but for self funding patients there is nothing to arrange. If you are already under a consultant or an NHS team, we are happy to work alongside them and to write to them with your consent.

Book online

How the appointment runs

1

We listen first

Your physiotherapist will ask what brought you in, when it started, what makes it worse and what you have already tried. This part matters more than people expect, because the history usually points to the cause.

2

We assess

A physical assessment follows. We look at how you move, test strength and range of movement, and examine the area itself. We explain what we are doing as we go, and nothing happens without your agreement.

3

We explain what we have found

You will leave knowing what we think is going on, in plain language, and whether physiotherapy is the right answer. If we think you need a scan, a GP or a consultant instead, we will say so.

4

Treatment starts the same day

Where it is appropriate, treatment begins in that first appointment rather than the next one. You will also go home with a small number of exercises and a clear idea of how many sessions you are likely to need.

Common questions about a first appointment

How long is a first physiotherapy appointment?
An initial physiotherapy consultation at Healthflex lasts 45 minutes. That gives time to take a full history, examine you properly, explain what we have found and start treatment where it is appropriate. Follow up treatment sessions are usually half an hour. Neurological and pelvic health first appointments can run longer, and reception will tell you when you book.
What should I wear to physiotherapy?
Wear something loose and comfortable that lets us see and move the area that is bothering you. Shorts are useful for a knee, hip or back problem, and a vest top for a shoulder or neck. If you forget, we have gowns and we can work around whatever you have on.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No. You can book directly with us as a self referring patient. If you intend to claim on private medical insurance, check your policy first, because some insurers require a GP referral before they will authorise treatment.
What should I bring with me?
Bring any scan reports or consultant letters you already have, a list of your current medication, and your insurance details if you are claiming. Nothing else is needed.
Will you treat me on the first visit?
Usually yes. Once we have assessed you and explained what we think is going on, treatment normally begins in that same appointment. Occasionally we will advise waiting for a scan or a medical opinion first, and we will tell you clearly if that is the case.
How many appointments will I need?
It depends entirely on what is wrong. Many straightforward musculoskeletal problems settle in three to six sessions. Longer term and neurological conditions are worked to a plan over a longer period. We will give you an honest estimate at the end of the first appointment rather than leaving it open ended.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. You are welcome to bring a partner, relative, friend or carer into the appointment. For anyone under sixteen a parent or guardian needs to be present.
Where do I park?
There is free parking at The Edge on Woolmer Hill in Haslemere, with spaces close to the entrance and step free access into the building.
What if I need to cancel?
Please give at least 24 hours notice to change or cancel, otherwise the full fee is charged. Ring reception on 01428 642577 or email reception@healthflex.co.uk.

Ready when you are

Book online in a couple of minutes, or ring 01428 642577 and reception will find you a time. If you are not sure which service you need, say what is bothering you and we will point you to the right clinician.

Book onlineEmail reception