FAQs
What makes The Movement Clinic different from traditional physiotherapy?
This could be a big list, but here are some of the major ones:
Personalisation - no short-cuts/cookie-cutting. We treat you, in the context of your life.
We’re Hands-on - we’ve borrowed the best of osteopathic practice and old-school physical therapy. We blend this with cutting edge sports and injury medicine and exercise science.
Root causes identified - we don’t just treat symptoms. We find out the motor patterns and loading behind them.
Arrows in the quiver - Reformer pilates, blood flow modulation, low-level laser therapy, sports taping, strength and conditioning, callisthenics, PNF. We’re adept in all these areas and more, allowing us to tailor your recommendations specifically to you.
Time - no rushed appointments, no “set and forget”. Our single sessions provide sufficient time for effective treatment, and we’ll work with you to determine the appropriate time spans for your healing process.
Exclusivity - We’re a boutique clinic by design, prioritising quality over quantity. By keeping our patient numbers intentionally low, we ensure every individual receives the undivided attention, tailored care, and elite-level expertise they deserve
Do you work with dancers and performing artists?
Yes! We do work with dancers and performers, tailoring rehabilitation to meet the unique demands of your art.
Do you only work with dancers?
No, our clients come from all walks of life. But what they have in common is that they are invested in improving their health.
Do you offer appointments in my home, gym or office?
Yes, our Concierge Services bring physio to you so long as you’re in the following postcodes: NE1, NE2, NE3, NE4, NE8, NE9, NE10, NE13, NE15, NE20, NE30, NE38, DH2, DH1.
Even if you’re not in one of these postcodes contact us and we’ll see what we can do. Please be advised our Concierge Services are very popular and book up quickly.
What happens in an Initial Assessment?
In an initial assessment, we take a holistic view of the problem you’ve come with. We ask about wider health history, previous injuries or illness, and your goals or things you’d like to accomplish. We’ll screen your movement and do hands-on testing to find the causes of symptoms and, crucially, what is causing those symptoms.
These appointments are an hour long, and this usually gives us plenty to time to begin addressing the problem. First we can do hands-on therapies to ease any tightness, spasms, or locked joints. Then we’ll advise on the most effective mindful movements you can do to specifically address your motor patterns. Finally we’ll ensure you have a comprehensive plan, laying out expected healing times and milestones.
What hands-on/manual therapies do you use?
We have a strong repertoire of options, from massage, mobilisation and manipulation through to laser therapy, kinesio-taping, blood flow modulation, compression flossing, cupping and more.
Not all of these are useful or appropriate to all cases, but our practitioners are skilled at employing the best therapies for your specific issue.
In-clinic we have different treatment options worth mentioning for ongoing appointments:
Curated treatments are 30-minute sessions that focus on one or two therapies that will get you the most gains.
Couture treatments are 60 minute sessions which allow us to stack other therapies beyond the ones central to your problem. These additions are not essential, but will give extra marginal gains in function and healing times.
Which exercise systems do you use?
In-clinic, we have Pilates Reformers and Cadillacs. But we are also skilled in a wide range of therapeutic strength and conditioning modalities. We often employ ATG (@kneesovertoesguy) exercise principles and blend these with our use of Pilates equipment. We also have a background in Crossfit and have mentored with the FM (@fightingmonkey_practice) movement practitioners.
The main thing is that the exercises we choose are bespoke to your needs and context; they’re progressive; we want you to understand and enjoy them.
Ultimately, we want you to move mindfully to rehabilitate until you’re once again able to move thoughtlessly and fearlessly.
Do I need a GP referral to book an appointment?
TMC is self-referral, so you can book directly with us without needing to see your GP first.
Do you accept health insurance?
We operate on a self-pay basis, and we're happy to provide the documentation you need to claim back from your insurer if your policy covers physiotherapy. If you'd like to check what's covered before booking, it's worth calling your insurance provider directly.
What happens if I'm running late?
If you're running a few minutes late, give us a call — we'll always try to fit you in where our schedule allows. If we haven't heard from you and too much time has passed, we may need to release your slot for another patient.
What's your cancellation policy?
We ask for at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This gives us the chance to offer your slot to another patient who needs it. Cancellations or reschedules with less than 24 hours' notice, without a reasonable reason, may be charged at 50% of the appointment cost. For sessions booked as part of a treatment pack, a late cancellation will mean that session is used up rather than rescheduled.
Where can I park, and is the clinic accessible?
The nearest parking is Grainger Town Car Park on Waterloo Street, right next to Dance City, with disability parking on the ground floor.
Dance City itself is fully accessible, with lift access between all levels.