Treatment options

We provide a wide variety of treatment options tailored to each patient. The types of treatment that we can provide include:

  • Advice and education
  • Individual one to one treatments: manual therapy, exercise prescription, biomechanical assessment, return to sports rehabilitation, taping and splinting
  • Exercise classes, including hydrotherapy at the Royal Free site *
  • Virtual group classes, including for mindful movement and back to fitness
  • Individual one to one treatments

*Currently on hold secondary to the COVID-19 pandemic 

Individual exercise therapy

Research has shown that regular exercise helps almost all musculoskeletal conditions treated by physiotherapists.

Exercise can strengthen muscles, increase joint stability, aid weight loss, help retain bone density, increase well-being and improve general physical function. Your physiotherapist will design a tailored programme of exercises for you to do at home or in the gym.

Manual therapy

Manual therapy (hands on therapy) involves manipulation, mobilisation and soft tissue release, as well as other techniques. It can reduce pain and increases range of motion of joints.

Musculoskeletal physiotherapists at the Royal Free may use manual therapy as part of their diagnosis and treatment.

Exercise classes

Exercising in groups is an effective and enjoyable way of increasing fitness and function.

We run different types of exercise groups depending on your condition. Please ask your physiotherapist for more details.

Hydrotherapy (Royal Free Hospital only)

Physiotherapy in a heated pool can help people who find exercising at home or in the gym very difficult – for instance, if you have had surgery, had broken bones or suffer from a long-term condition.  Your therapist will design an exercise programme with you that can be continued at your local swimming pool.  Patients get into the pool by steps or mechanical hoist and we have women-only sessions.

What should I bring with me?

Please bring a swimming costume and a towel. You should arrive 5-10 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time for you to get changed.  There are lockers available to keep your valuables in; they require a £1 coin which is returned after use.

Virtual groups

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, physical group classes have been restricted. Virtual groups are a good way to stay connected with your physiotherapist, and benefit from the classes we have on offer from the comfort of your own home. These include:

  • Mindfulness for health group 
  • Back to fitness group
  • Ankylosing spondylitis group

Please ask your physiotherapist for more information on each of these to see if they may be suitable for you.