The reality is very different.

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession focused on movement, function, and long-term recovery. It looks at why pain or injury develops and how to restore function in a way that lasts — not just temporarily.

What is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that focuses on movement, physical function, and quality of life. A physiotherapist helps people recover from injury or surgery, manage acute and persistent pain, improve strength and mobility, regain confidence in movement, and return to work, sport, or daily activities safely.

In the UK, physiotherapists are university trained, HCPC registered, and regulated healthcare prof

essionals. This means they can assess, diagnose, and treat independently, often without a GP referral.

What problems do physiotherapists treat?

Physiotherapy is for anyone whose movement or function is affected. This includes people with back or neck pain, shoulder, hip or knee problems, tendon pain, sports injuries, post-operative needs, persistent pain, or reduced mobility and confidence.

What happens in a physiotherapy assessment?

A physiotherapy assessment involves a detailed discussion about symptoms, lifestyle, work demands, and goals. Many diagnoses can be made clinically through this process. A physical assessment may include movement, strength, and functional testing.

What does physiotherapy treatment involve?

Treatment may include exercise-based rehabilitation, strength training, movement retraining, load management, advice, and where appropriate, hands-on techniques. Long-term improvement comes from active rehabilitation.

Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist?

In most cases, no. You can self-refer to NHS services or book privately.

The bottom line

Physiotherapy is about understanding your body, restoring movement, and returning you safely to what matters most.