Answers to the questions I am asked most often. If yours is not here, please get in touch and ask.
Do I need a GP referral to see you?
No, you don’t need a GP referral to book an appointment with Stour Home Physio. You can contact me directly to arrange a home visit.
If you’re unsure whether physiotherapy is appropriate for your situation, I’m always happy to have a chat before booking.
Who can benefit from home physiotherapy?
I specialise in providing physiotherapy for older adults, particularly people experiencing reduced mobility, falls or balance problems, frailty, deconditioning or difficulty managing everyday activities.
I also provide rehabilitation following hospital discharge and support people living with long-term conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
If you’re arranging physiotherapy for a parent or loved one, you are very welcome to contact me on their behalf.
What happens during the first home visit?
Your first appointment is a chance for me to understand what you’re finding difficult and what you would like to achieve.
I’ll talk to you about your health and mobility, assess your balance and how you’re moving, and look at how you manage everyday activities within your home. Assessments are individually tailored to you and based on current evidence and national guidelines, using validated outcome measures to ensure the highest standards of care.
We’ll then agree a personalised plan together. This might include exercises, functional activities, advice, practical strategies or recommendations to help you become more confident and independent.
Initial home assessments cost £60 and usually last 60 to 90 minutes.
How much does private home physiotherapy cost?
Home physiotherapy does not have to be expensive, and there are no hidden costs.
A comprehensive initial assessment costs £60 and usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes, and each follow-up visit costs £45.
Payment is due only after your appointment, by card or bank transfer, and you can see exactly what is included at each visit on my services and prices page.
Do you charge extra to visit villages further away?
No. The price is the same wherever you are in my service area, with no charge for travel and no hidden extras.
Whether I am visiting you in one of the main towns or in a village further out, an initial assessment costs £60 and each follow-up visit costs £45.
If you are not sure whether you are within my service area, please get in touch and ask.
How long are follow-up appointments?
Follow-up appointments cost £45 and typically last around 45 minutes, though I aim to keep your visit flexible and unhurried.
Can I arrange physiotherapy for my parent or another family member?
Absolutely. In fact, many of the people who contact me are family members arranging physiotherapy for an older parent or loved one.
If you’re concerned about someone’s mobility, strength, balance or confidence, you can contact me to discuss their situation. Where appropriate, family members and carers can also be involved in the rehabilitation process.
Why have physiotherapy at home rather than going to a clinic?
Having physiotherapy in your own home means that your rehabilitation can be tailored to the things that matter most to you in your everyday life. Rather than simply assessing how you move in a clinic, I can see how you manage in your own environment, whether that’s getting up from your favourite chair, getting in and out of bed, using the stairs, walking safely around your home or getting outside and enjoying your usual activities. It also removes the stress and hassle of arranging transport and finding parking.
Can you help after someone has been discharged from hospital?
Yes. Post-hospital rehabilitation is one of my specialist areas.
It’s common for older adults to lose strength, balance and exercise tolerance following a hospital stay.
I can help you work towards regaining your mobility and independence at home, including areas such as walking, transfers, stairs, functional tasks, strength, balance and confidence.
What areas do you cover?
I provide physiotherapy home visits throughout North Dorset and the surrounding areas, including Blandford Forum, Shaftesbury, Gillingham, Sturminster Newton, Sherborne, Wimborne and the surrounding villages.
If you’re unsure whether I cover your particular village or postcode, please get in touch and ask. I’m happy to let you know whether a home visit is possible.
How quickly can I be seen?
I can usually offer a home visit within 5 days, although this can vary depending on availability.
How do I pay?
Payment is due only on completion of your appointment and can be made by debit or credit card, or by bank transfer, whichever is most convenient for you.