Chris Heywood Physio Booking FAQ's
1) How do I book an appointment?
You can book online using the booking system on this page. Choose a suitable time, complete your details, and you’ll receive confirmation by email.
If you book outside clinic hours, your confirmation may not be issued until the clinic has reviewed it. Don’t worry — your request will be processed.
2) Do I need a referral from my GP?
No. You can book directly without a referral.
If you are using private medical insurance, your insurer may require one — please check with them first.
3) How long are appointments?
Initial appointments are 60 minutes. Follow-up sessions are also longer than typical high-street clinics, allowing proper assessment, treatment and explanation.
Importantly, 60 minutes means 60 minutes of face-to-face clinical time where appropriate. I complete my notes outside of your session time, so you are not losing part of your appointment to administration. Time is also allowed between patients to avoid overlap and maintain privacy.
4) How much does a session cost?
Current fees are listed on this page.
Sessions are longer and more detailed than average appointments, which often reduces the total number of visits needed.
I have over 25 years’ experience as an advanced physiotherapist and charge fees in line with that level of expertise. While this may appear higher than some clinics, please ensure you are comparing equivalent practitioner experience and session duration.
5) Do you accept cash?
No. I do not accept cash.
Payment is made electronically via card or bank transfer.
6) When do I pay?
Payment is taken immediately after your appointment unless otherwise arranged.
7) Do you accept private medical insurance?
I work with some insurers, but not all.
I left AXA and BUPA in 2024 as their remuneration structures do not recognise qualification level or clinical experience, which I do not agree with.
You must check directly with your insurer before booking to confirm:
-
I am recognised by them
-
Your policy covers physiotherapy
-
The number of sessions authorised
-
The fee level covered
You are responsible for any shortfall if your insurer does not cover my full fee.
8) Can I still see you if my insurer doesn’t list you?
Yes. I am happy to work with anyone provided fees are covered.
Some insurers allow out-of-network claims; others do not. Please clarify this with them before booking.
9) What happens if my insurer only pays part of the fee?
If your insurer pays less than my full fee, you are responsible for paying the difference.
In many cases, insurers will not allow top-up payments, so please confirm this with them in advance.
10) Do you treat self-paying patients?
Yes. The vast majority of my patients self-fund their treatment.
No referral is required.
11) What should I wear to my appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows movement and access to the area being assessed.
-
For lower back or hip issues, shorts are helpful.
-
For shoulder problems, a vest or loose top works well.
As I am a male physiotherapist, please ensure you are comfortable being examined in what you wear. Where clinically necessary, the area must be exposed for proper assessment.
I will always maintain your dignity and privacy. However, if you are not comfortable with this, I may not be the best fit, as meaningful assessment cannot be performed through clothing.
12) What should I bring?
Please bring:
-
Any relevant scan reports
-
A list of medications (if relevant)
-
Insurance authorisation details (if applicable)
-
13) What happens during the first appointment?
Your first session includes:
-
A detailed discussion of your symptoms
-
Physical assessment
-
Clear explanation of findings
-
Initial treatment where appropriate
-
A structured plan going forward
14) Will I receive exercises?
Yes, if appropriate.
Exercises are prescribed specifically to your condition and explained clearly. You will usually receive written or digital guidance.
15) How many sessions will I need?
That depends on the problem, its duration, and how you respond to treatment.
Because appointments are longer and more detailed, many patients require fewer sessions overall.
I am strongly against over-treating or creating dependency. Most people can help themselves significantly once they understand what to do. My role is supportive and educational — not magical.
16) What is your cancellation policy?
Please provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel.
Late cancellations will be charged in full.
17) Can I change my appointment after booking?
Yes, subject to availability.
Changes can usually be made via email or by contacting the clinic directly.
18) What if I’m running late?
Please let me know as soon as possible.
Late arrival will reduce your treatment time, and the full session fee will still apply.
19) Do you offer emergency or same-day appointments?
When possible, yes.
Availability varies. Check the booking system first — if nothing suitable appears, you may contact the clinic to enquire.
20) What if I’m unsure whether physiotherapy is right for me?
If you’re unsure, feel free to send a contact form enquiry If physiotherapy isn’t appropriate, I will advise you honestly and guide you accordingly, regardless of whether you continue treatment.
Why Should You Choose Chris Heywood Physio
Choosing the right physiotherapist can make a significant difference when dealing with pain, injury, or persistent movement problems. The most important thing when seeking help is finding a practitioner you trust—someone who is honest, responsible, and clear about your diagnosis, the treatment you really need, and whether any follow-up appointments are necessary.
I’m not here to poach you from another therapist, but if you’re looking for a new physiotherapist in Northamptonshire or simply want a second opinion, here’s why many people choose to work with me (read my reviews):
Over 25 years of experience & proven expertise
With 25+ years of hands-on physiotherapy experience, I’ve built a trusted reputation for clinical excellence and evidence-based care. My approach combines proven techniques with the latest research, so you can feel confident you’re in safe, skilled hands.
Longer appointments for better results
No two people—or injuries—are the same. That’s why I offer 60-minute one-to-one sessions, giving us time to:
-
Thoroughly assess your condition
-
Provide focused, effective treatment
-
Explain what’s really going on in a clear, simple way
Your treatment plan is tailored specifically to you, aiming for long-term results, not just temporary relief.
Honest advice & support you can trust
I will always tell you what is best for you — even if that means you need fewer sessions, not more. My goal is your recovery and long-term wellbeing, not keeping you coming back unnecessarily.
Because I operate an independent practice with low overheads, I do not work to preset business targets based on a number of sessions per patient. Treatment recommendations are based on clinical need only, not on maximising appointments.
If you are interested in this topic, you can read more in my article “Do You Really Need Weekly Private Physiotherapy Sessions?”
Helping you take control of your recovery
I believe the best outcomes happen when you understand your body. I’ll explain your condition clearly, give you practical tools for self-management, and step in with expert hands-on treatment when it’s genuinely needed.
Independent clinical care
Chris Heywood Physio operates as an independent physiotherapy practice rather than a high-volume clinic model.
This allows treatment decisions to focus entirely on what is most appropriate for the patient.
The aim is always to understand the problem properly and provide clear, effective physiotherapy that helps you return to normal activity as quickly and safely as possible.
Contact Me
Alongside private practice, I also work on Mondays and Tuesdays as an advanced physiotherapist in a First Contact Practitioner (FCP) in Musculoskeletal Primary Care within the NHS, assessing, diagnosing, and triaging patients without the need for a GP appointment.
The easiest way to see my private physiotherapy appointment availability in real time, and book, is to visit the book an appointment page. If you need to make contact directly for questions and queries you are very welcome to call, but when I am in clinic my phone is always on silent so I can give my full attention to the patient I am seeing at the time. For this reason, it is usually quicker to reach me via the contact form, email or WhatsApp, where I can often read and respond in gaps.
Whichever way you get in touch, I will respond as soon as possible — and during the working week that is almost always the same day.