physiotherapy frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know before your appointment

Welcome! Starting physiotherapy often comes with plenty of questions — how to book your first appointment, what treatment costs, what happens if you need to cancel, or simply how everything works when you arrive. It’s completely normal to want clarity before you begin.



This page is here to make things easy. We’ve gathered the answers to the questions we’re asked most often and organised them into simple drop‑down sections, so you can quickly find exactly what you need and feel confident about getting started with Straight Back Physio.

Frequently Asked Questions
    Where are you based?

        You’ll find our clinic at 90 Horsefair Street, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham, Glos, GL53 8JR


        Entrance and reception to the clinic is down the side of the building.


        We also have a clinic at Cheltenham College - providing private physiotherapy services to pupils and staff.

    When are you open?

        We schedule appointments between the hours of 8am and 7:30pm, Monday to Friday, and 9am-12pm on Saturday.  


        We can sometimes accommodate drop-in patients, just pop in and chat to us.

    Is there parking?

        There is FREE Parking in the car park directly opposite us on Horsefair Street but there is No Onsite parking.

        • If needed there is On Street parking on Horsefair Street.

    why should i consult a physiotherapist

        Physiotherapy can be helpful for people of all ages with a wide range of health conditions including problems affecting 


        bones, joints and soft tissues such as back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain and sports injuries.


        Physiotherapy can improve your physical activity while helping you prevent further injuries.

    How long is a physiotherapy appointment?

        • Initial consultation - Your initial consultation session will be 45 minutes long. This includes a thorough consultation to ensure we understand exactly what your physical issues are. We’ll also start treatment during this session, to kick-start your recovery. 
        • Treatment sessions - Standard follow-up sessions are 30 minutes long, but 45-minute and 60-minute sessions are also available, depending on your preference or the treatment needed. We can discuss this following your consultation. 

        Consultation and treatments
    How much does physioterapy cost

        We offer appointments on an individual basis, or packages where you buy 5 and get the next one FREE.


        Discover more about our prices and payment plans via the link below. 

        Prices and payment
    what should i wear on my first physiotherapy appointment

        Wear something comfortable, bring a pair of shorts if it is a lower back, hip, knee, ankle or a foot problem. Bring a vest if it is a neck, upper back, shoulder or elbow problem.

    How many sessions will I need?

        We can't give you a fixed number as everyone needs a different course of treatment depending on their conditions/ injury/ rehabilitation requirements but it is likely that you will need at least 4 treatment sessions.


        Treatment is agreed upon with patients on a continual review at each session.

    what does physiotherapy treatment involve

        Our physiotherapists use different treatment methods in order to deal with a wide range of injuries. Depending on the nature and severity of your injury you may need:


        Manipulation or mobilisation of joints


        Shockwave Therapy


        Medical Acupuncture - Dry Needling


        Soft Tissue massage


        Exercise Therapy


        Stretching and Strengthening

    can i reschedule my appointment

        Yes, you can rearrange your appointment by contacting us by phone or email. Please give us at least 24 hours notice.

        Learn More
    What happens if I miss an appointment?

        We require a minimum of 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or change your appointment. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice may occur a charge.

    Do you treat patients covered by medical insurance

        We are registered with most Health Insurance companies, please phone to check with us if you are in doubt.

    Can you send me for a private X-ray, MRI, or Ultrasound scan?

        If we think imaging is relevant, we can directly refer you for a private scan or X-Ray. You don't need a GP to authorise this for you.

    Can you send me to a consultant surgeon?

        Yes, we have links to all of the local surgeons and sports medicine consultants, if you need further opinions on your medical management.