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Referral to a physiotherapist

Professionally updated: April 16, 2024

If you're experiencing muscle or joint pain, mobility issues or need rehabilitation after an injury, a referral to a physiotherapist could be the solution. On this page, you can learn more about the process and benefits of a physiotherapy referral.

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Jakob Fraes
Specialist in General Medicine, PhD
Read more about Referral to a physiotherapist. Everything you need to know.

What is a referral to a physiotherapist?

When you visit your GP with physical challenges, your doctor can assess whether physiotherapy would be beneficial for you. If so, you will receive a referral, which is an official recommendation from your doctor to start physiotherapy.

How does the referral process work?

After receiving a referral from your doctor, you can contact a physiotherapist directly to book an appointment. The referral typically includes information about your condition and the reason why physiotherapy is recommended.

Who can benefit from physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy isn't just for those with sports injuries. People with chronic pain, elderly people with reduced mobility, post-surgery patients or those with neurological challenges can also benefit from physiotherapy treatment.

What are the benefits of physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy can help improve mobility, reduce pain, strengthen weak muscles and improve overall physical function. It is a non-surgical treatment that is often used alongside or as an alternative to medical treatment.

What can I expect at my first physiotherapy session?

At your first session, the physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment of your condition, ask questions about your medical history and discuss your goals for treatment. This will help design a tailored treatment plan for you.

How can I book a doctor's appointment for a referral?

If you think physiotherapy may be right for you, the first step is to book an appointment with your GP to discuss your symptoms and the possibility of a referral. You can book an appointment directly through this website by clicking the "Book an appointment" button at the top of the page.

After reading the above information, you should have a clear picture of what a referral to a physiotherapist entails and how you can take the next steps. Make an appointment with your doctor today to start your path to better health and wellbeing.

Frequently asked questions

What does a physiotherapist do?

A physiotherapist assesses, diagnoses and treats patients with physical challenges to improve mobility, reduce pain and prevent further injury.

How do I get a referral to a physiotherapist?

You can get a referral to a physiotherapist through your general practitioner, who will assess the need for physiotherapy treatment based on the patient's symptoms and condition.

How long does a typical physiotherapy session last?

A standard session often lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your condition and the specific treatment you receive.