If you’re the parent of a sporty child or teen who has suddenly started complaining of knee or heel pain, you may have heard terms like Osgood-Schlatter or Sever’s disease mentioned. These are two of the most common growth-related conditions we see in young people at Move4 Physio in Northampton — and although the names can sound alarming, the good news is: they’re manageable with the right advice and support.

In this blog, we’ll break down what these conditions are, why they develop, how to spot the signs, and what physiotherapy can do to help your child stay active and confident during this key phase of their development.

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What Are Osgood-Schlatter and Sever’s Disease?

Osgood-Schlatter disease affects the top of the shinbone, just below the kneecap, where the patellar tendon attaches. It typically presents as a painful, swollen bump at the front of the knee.

Sever’s disease affects the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel bone. Children with Sever’s usually complain of heel pain, especially during or after sport, and may limp or avoid putting pressure on the heel.

Both conditions are types of growth plate irritation. Growth plates (also called epiphyseal plates) are areas of developing tissue at the ends of long bones. They’re essential for bone growth during childhood and adolescence, but they’re also more vulnerable to stress and overload than mature bone.

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Why Do These Conditions Happen?

During periods of rapid growth — often around ages 9 to 14 — a child’s bones, tendons, and muscles are all adapting at different rates. While it’s a myth that bones grow faster than muscles and tendons, the change in length and structure of these tissues can increase stress on attachment points like the shin or heel.

At the same time, active children are often training across multiple settings:

• School PE and after-school clubs
• Local club sport (e.g., football, netball, rugby, athletics)
• Representative or academy teams with more intense training loads

This combination of high activity levels and a growing body is what puts them at risk.

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Key Symptoms to Look Out For

If your child or teen is developing one of these conditions, you may notice:

• Pain or tenderness at the front of the knee (Osgood-Schlatter) or heel (Sever’s)
• A visible bump or swelling below the kneecap
• Discomfort during or after physical activity
• Limping or avoiding putting weight on the affected side
• Stiffness or tightness in the legs, especially after rest

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Should You Be Worried?

The key message here is:
👉 Don’t panic — but don’t ignore it either.

Osgood-Schlatter and Sever’s are not dangerous, and they don’t cause permanent damage when managed properly. But if left unaddressed, they can:

• Lead to long-term pain
• Disrupt your child’s enjoyment of sport
• Cause compensatory movement issues elsewhere in the body

Early intervention from a qualified physiotherapist can make a huge difference — not just in settling the symptoms, but also in preventing them from returning.

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How Physiotherapy Can Help

At Move4 Physio in Northampton, we support children and teens with growth-related conditions every week. Here’s how we approach it:

1. Detailed Assessment

We take the time to understand the whole picture — growth history, training load, school sport, footwear, and any other contributing factors. We also assess movement patterns, strength, and flexibility to identify areas of increased stress.

2. Load Management Advice

We don’t believe in telling kids to “just stop” their sport unless absolutely necessary. Instead, we help them:

• Adjust their training volumes
• Modify activity types (e.g., reducing running volume, increasing skill-based work)
• Add recovery strategies into their weekly routine

We often liaise with coaches, teachers, and parents to make sure everyone’s on the same page.

3. Strength & Movement Rehab

Targeted exercises to build lower limb strength, improve movement control, and support the areas under stress (especially around the knee and ankle) are essential.

We might also work on:

• Calf and quad strength
• Core control and posture
• Mobility where needed (e.g., ankle or hip)

4. Footwear & Support

The right shoes can make a big difference — particularly in Sever’s disease. We’ll advise on footwear, insoles, or heel lifts if appropriate, and explain why it matters based on your child’s biomechanics and sport.

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Common Myths We Hear (and Why They’re Not True)

❌ “They just need to grow out of it.”
👉 They might, but it could take months — and symptoms can worsen in the meantime. Active management is better than waiting and hoping.

❌ “They have to stop all sport.”
👉 Not always! In many cases, smart adjustments allow continued participation without making symptoms worse.

❌ “It’s just growing pains.”
👉 These conditions are more than vague aches — they involve specific irritation at the growth plate and need targeted support.

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When to Book a Physio Review

If your child:

• Has recently had a growth spurt
• Is training across multiple teams or sports
• Complains of pain at the knee or heel
• Is limping or avoiding certain activities

…then it’s time to book in for a physiotherapy assessment.

At Move4 Physio, our Northampton-based physios are experienced in supporting young athletes and will create a tailored plan to reduce pain, manage load, and keep them doing the things they love.

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Final Thoughts

Pain around the knee or heel in a growing child isn’t something to panic about — but it’s not something to brush off either. With the right physiotherapy input, we can help your child stay active, confident, and pain-free throughout their growth years.

📅 Book an assessment today with our expert team at Move4 Physio Northampton — and give your young athlete the support they need to keep moving well.

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🔗 Book online or learn more about our services: https://move4physio.janeapp.co.uk/
📍 Move4 Physio – Specialist Physio for Young Athletes in Northampton

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What Can Podiatry Offer You?

When it comes to your health and movement, it’s easy to focus on the big muscles and joints—your back, hips, and knees. But what about the foundation you stand on every day? Your feet and lower limbs play a vital role in how you move, and when they’re not functioning optimally, it can affect your entire body.

At Move4 Physio, our podiatry service is designed to assess, diagnose, and treat lower limb conditions that may be holding you back. Whether you’re an athlete struggling with repeated injuries or someone who just wants to walk pain-free, our specialist podiatrist can help.

What Is Podiatry?

Podiatry is a healthcare discipline focused on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and lower limb. Podiatrists are trained to understand the complex biomechanics of this area and use a combination of assessment tools, hands-on care, and exercise-based rehabilitation to get you back on track.

At Move4, our podiatry team combines clinical expertise with up-to-date knowledge of human movement and performance. We don’t just look at the painful spot—we assess how your entire lower limb is working and what may be contributing to the issue.

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Podiatrists: Specialists in Lower Limb Problems

Podiatrists are not just “foot doctors”—they’re experts in the full chain from your hips to your toes. Our main skillset lies in understanding the complex biomechanics, anatomy and function of the lower limb to inform highly specific and effective treatment plans.

This means we’re not just reacting to pain—we’re looking for the root cause. That could mean addressing loading issues, asymmetries in how you walk or run, or identifying weak links that make you prone to injury.

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Common Conditions We Treat

Our podiatrist regularly supports people with a wide range of issues. Some of the most common include:

Sports Injuries:

• Ankle sprains – Often recurrent without proper rehab
• Heel pain/plantar fasciitis – Common in both active and sedentary individuals
• Stress fractures – Often linked to biomechanics and overloading
• Metatarsalgia – Pain across the ball of the foot, usually worsened by walking or running
• Morton’s Neuroma – A nerve condition often aggravated by tight shoes or high-impact exercise
• Turf toe – Common in field sports where the big toe gets overextended

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list. If you’re experiencing pain, discomfort, or recurrent injury in your feet or lower limbs, a podiatry assessment is the right place to start.

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Our Approach

At Move4, we believe in addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes. That’s why our podiatry service combines:

1. In-Depth Biomechanical Assessment

We analyse how your lower limb functions in motion and at rest. This includes gait analysis, mobility testing, and loading assessments to understand how you move and why certain areas might be under strain.

2. Insole Therapy

We offer tailored insole prescriptions to help offload pressure from painful or overworked areas. These aren’t one-size-fits-all orthotics—they’re designed with your unique foot shape, walking style and loading patterns in mind.

3. Progressive Re-loading

Exercise therapy is a key part of our treatment plans. Once we’ve reduced your pain and corrected any immediate issues, we work with you to build strength, balance and tolerance to movement. This phase helps prevent recurrence and builds your confidence.

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Who Is Podiatry For?

• Runners and athletes looking to overcome or prevent overuse injuries
• People with persistent foot pain that hasn’t resolved with rest or footwear changes
• Those recovering from lower limb injury and needing support with return to activity
• Anyone with balance issues or walking difficulties due to foot/ankle problems
• People with conditions like arthritis or diabetes that impact foot health

Our goal is always to keep you moving, doing the things you love—without fear of pain or injury.

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Why Choose Move4 Physio for Podiatry?

✅ Integrated Team Approach
Our podiatrist works closely with our wider team of physiotherapists, Pilates instructors and rehab specialists. That means you get a joined-up plan that considers your whole body, not just your feet.

✅ Clear Communication
We don’t throw jargon at you. We explain what we find in a way that makes sense, and we involve you in your care every step of the way.

✅ Evidence-Based Practice
We use current research and clinical reasoning to guide treatment. Our approach is rooted in the latest evidence on lower limb loading, injury management and rehabilitation.

✅ Patient-First Philosophy
We believe in supporting your goals. Whether that’s running a marathon, walking the dog pain-free, or getting through a shift at work without discomfort, we’ll help you get there.

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How to Get Started

If you’re experiencing foot, ankle or lower limb issues, or you’re simply not moving as well as you’d like, it’s time to get things checked. The earlier we can assess you, the easier it is to prevent longer-term problems and get you back to what you enjoy.

We offer podiatry appointments at our Northampton clinics and can provide advice on next steps straight away after your initial assessment.

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Ready to Move Better?

Book your podiatry appointment today and take the first step towards healthier, more confident movement.

📞 01604 935 678
📧 info@move4physio.com
🌐 www.move4physio.com

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Let us help you put your best foot forward—literally.

Why Musculoskeletal Screening Could Be the Injury Prevention Tool You Didn’t Know You Needed

If you’re someone who runs, cycles, goes to the gym, or plays sport regularly, you probably know the frustration of dealing with a niggling injury. Maybe it’s your knee after a long run. Or your back after a tough gym session. The problem is, by the time pain shows up, the damage is often already done.

But what if you could spot the issues before they become injuries?

At Move4 Physio in Northampton, we’re excited to offer a proactive, data-led way to keep your body performing at its best — our Musculoskeletal (MSK) Screening service.

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What is MSK Screening?

Musculoskeletal screening is a comprehensive assessment that looks at how your body moves, how strong it is, and how balanced your movement patterns are.

The aim? To prevent injuries before they happen, and to give you the tools to improve your performance and move more efficiently.

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all health check. It’s a tailored physiotherapy assessment that combines:

• Clinical testing
• Functional movement screening
• Force plate analysis
• Hand-held dynamometry for strength measurement

Together, these give us a 360-degree view of how your body functions.

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The Three Core Elements of MSK Screening at Move4 Physio

1. Clinical and Functional Movement Testing

We start by observing how you move — squats, lunges, balance, mobility. Our Northampton physios look at joint control, coordination, and how your muscles are working together. This helps us pick up on inefficient patterns or areas of compensation.

2. Hand-Held Dynamometry (HHD)

This specialised tool measures your muscle strength with precision. We test key muscle groups — glutes, quads, hamstrings, shoulders and core — and compare left vs right. It’s particularly helpful for athletes or gym users recovering from injury or working on performance.

3. Force Plate Testing

Using force plate technology, we analyse how you absorb and generate force when jumping or balancing. This helps identify asymmetries, power deficits, or control issues that may not be obvious during regular physiotherapy assessments.

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Why is This Valuable?

Pain doesn’t always mean something is wrong — and feeling fine doesn’t always mean everything’s working properly. Small imbalances can build up over time, eventually leading to breakdown or injury.

By investing in an MSK screening with our Northampton physiotherapy team, you can:

• Spot and correct movement issues early
• Get a clearer picture of your strengths and weaknesses
• Avoid the downtime and frustration of preventable injuries
• Track progress over time with repeatable, measurable data

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Who’s It For?

MSK Screening is for anyone active — not just elite athletes. If you:

• Train regularly at the gym
• Run, cycle or swim
• Play sport at a club or social level
• Have a physically demanding job
• Are returning to activity after an injury
• Want to avoid recurring issues

Then this is for you.

It’s like a physio MOT, tailored to you.

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What Do You Get?

After your session, you’ll receive:

• A summary of findings
• A clear, actionable plan
• Advice on exercises, training tweaks, and next steps

All delivered by a highly experienced Northampton physiotherapist who’ll guide you through everything.

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Ready to Stay One Step Ahead?

At Move4 Physio, we believe prevention is better than cure. Our Musculoskeletal Screening service in Northampton helps you understand your body better, stay injury-free, and perform at your best — no matter what your sport or activity.

📍 Want to know more or book your assessment? Click here
📹 Or check out our explainer video

If you experience knee pain when using the stairs, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with discomfort when going up or down steps, often feeling pain around the patellofemoral joint (the area where your kneecap meets your thigh bone). This can make everyday tasks frustrating and limit your mobility.

The good news? There are immediate changes you can make to help reduce pain while using stairs. But remember, while these strategies can help you function in the short term, if you’re struggling with ongoing knee pain, it’s always best to seek a physiotherapy assessment to address the root cause of the issue.

Understanding Knee Pain

When we ascend or descend stairs, we place significant loads through the patellofemoral joint. The key factor contributing to knee pain in this movement is the angle of the shin, or how far the knee moves over the toes. This increases the pressure on the front of the knee, particularly on the underside of the kneecap, leading to discomfort in those with existing irritation or sensitivity in this area.

However, movement can be modified to offload this area and shift the work elsewhere, helping to reduce pain and allow you to function more easily.

How Adjusting Your Movement Can Help

1. Reduce Forward Knee Motion (Knee Over Toes)

When climbing stairs, the more your knee moves over your toes, the greater the load through the patellofemoral joint. While this isn’t a bad movement in a healthy knee, if you’re experiencing pain, reducing this forward knee angle can temporarily ease discomfort.

2. Shift the Load to Your Hips

Instead of driving your knee forward as you step up or down, try leaning slightly forward at the hips and focusing on engaging the muscles around the hips and glutes. This technique helps to shift the workload from the knee to the larger, stronger muscles of the hip and thigh, reducing stress on the painful joint.

Here’s how to adjust your movement:

• When stepping up, push through your heel rather than your toes and focus on using the muscles at the back of your hip to propel yourself up.
• When stepping down, try to control the descent using your thigh and hip muscles rather than allowing your knee to take all the force.

This change in movement reduces compression at the knee and can make stairs more manageable in the short term.

3. Use Support if Needed

If pain is severe, consider using a handrail to offload some of the weight. This reduces the force going through the knee and allows you to use your arms to assist the movement.

Why This Is a Short-Term Fix

While these adjustments can help reduce pain when navigating stairs, they don’t fix the underlying issue. Pain is a signal that something isn’t working optimally, and without addressing the cause, the discomfort could persist or worsen over time.

Some common reasons for knee pain on stairs include:

• Weak hip and thigh muscles, leading to increased reliance on the knee joint
• Tight or overloaded quadriceps, pulling excessively on the patellofemoral joint
• Patellofemoral pain syndrome, where irritation builds under the kneecap due to poor movement mechanics
• Osteoarthritis, where cartilage changes increase joint sensitivity

If knee pain is affecting your ability to go up and down stairs, it’s important to seek a physiotherapy assessment. A physiotherapist can help identify the root cause of your pain and create a tailored rehabilitation plan to improve strength, mobility, and function in the long term.

Strengthening for Long-Term Knee Health

To improve knee function and reduce pain in the long term, exercises targeting the hip, thigh, and core muscles can be extremely beneficial. Strengthening these muscle groups can help improve stability and ensure better load distribution through the knee joint when using stairs.

Key muscle groups to focus on include:

• Glutes (hip muscles) – Crucial for absorbing force and reducing knee stress.
• Quadriceps (front thigh muscles) – Important for controlling knee movement and stability.
• Hamstrings (back thigh muscles) – Help support the knee by assisting hip movement.
• Core muscles – Aid overall posture and control, reducing unnecessary strain on the lower body.

A physiotherapist can tailor a strengthening program to your specific needs, ensuring exercises are safe and effective for your condition.

Take Action Today

If knee pain is interfering with your ability to use stairs comfortably, don’t ignore it. While adjusting your movement can help in the short term, long-term solutions require addressing the underlying cause.

A physiotherapy assessment will help you regain confidence in your movement and ensure you stay active without pain.

If you’re struggling with knee pain, get in touch with Move4 Physio today. Our team can assess your movement and provide a clear plan to help you move pain-free.

5 Reasons to Stay Active in Your Golden Years: Physiotherapy Insights from Move4 Physio in Northampton

As we age, staying active becomes more crucial than ever for maintaining a high quality of life. At Move4 Physio, based in the heart of Northampton, we’ve seen firsthand how regular exercise transforms lives. Whether you’re already active or looking to start, here are five physiotherapy-backed reasons why staying active in your golden years is essential.

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1. Maintain Independence

One of the most significant benefits of exercise is its ability to preserve independence. Strengthening muscles and improving balance through regular movement reduces the need for assistance with daily tasks like climbing stairs, cooking, or gardening. At Move4 Physio, we focus on tailored strength and mobility programs that empower you to live life on your terms for years to come.

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2. Enhance Joint Health and Mobility

As we age, joint stiffness and conditions like arthritis can limit our range of motion. However, low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or yoga can keep joints flexible and healthy. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in guiding safe movements to reduce stiffness and improve overall mobility. If you’re in Northampton and dealing with joint pain, our experienced team can help you find the best exercises to suit your needs.

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3. Boost Heart and Lung Health

Exercise isn’t just about movement—it’s a gift for your cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Activities like brisk walking or cycling help keep your heart and lungs functioning optimally by promoting blood flow and oxygen delivery. This reduces the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and stroke. At Move4 Physio, we often incorporate cardio-respiratory physiotherapy into our programs to ensure long-term health.

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4. Improve Mental Wellbeing

Physical health and mental wellbeing go hand in hand. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, also known as happy hormones, which can lift your mood, reduce anxiety, and even improve sleep quality. Staying active fosters a positive outlook and helps you tackle daily challenges with confidence. If you’re based in Northampton and feeling stuck, let our physiotherapists guide you toward exercises that bring joy and peace of mind.

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5. Prevent Falls and Stay Safe

Falls are a common concern as we age, but they don’t have to be inevitable. Regular exercise enhances balance, coordination, and leg strength, significantly reducing the risk of falls. At Move4 Physio, we specialize in creating personalized programs to improve stability and boost your confidence in daily movements.

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How Move4 Physio Can Help

At Move4 Physio in Northampton, our expert team is passionate about helping you stay active, healthy, and independent. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to maintain your fitness, we provide tailored solutions that align with your goals and lifestyle.

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Get Started Today

Ready to take the first step toward better health? Contact Move4 Physio to discuss how we can support your journey with safe and effective exercise programs. Don’t let age hold you back—let’s keep moving forward together!

Neurological physiotherapy is a specialised area of physiotherapy aimed at individuals who have movement difficulties due to damage or dysfunction within the nervous system. This includes conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, and spinal cord injuries. The focus is on helping patients regain as much function and independence as possible, improving balance, coordination, strength, and mobility.

Neurological physiotherapists are highly trained to assess and treat these complex conditions. Treatment plans are personalised, targeting specific issues such as muscle weakness, spasticity, impaired coordination, and balance difficulties. By working with a specialist in neurological physiotherapy, patients can see significant improvements in their quality of life and everyday functioning.

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The Benefits of Neurological Physiotherapy

Are you or someone you love facing mobility challenges due to a neurological condition? Neurological physiotherapy in Northampton could be the answer you’re looking for.

Neurological conditions, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, and spinal cord injuries, can severely impact one’s ability to move and function independently. This is where neurological physiotherapy comes in. Specialising in the treatment of conditions that affect the nervous system, a qualified neurological physiotherapist can help you regain your mobility, improve your balance, and strengthen your muscles.

But why choose Move4 Physio in Northampton?

1. Expert Physiotherapists in Northampton

At Move4 Physio, our neurological physiotherapists have extensive experience in assessing and treating a wide range of neurological conditions. They use evidence-based treatment techniques tailored specifically to your condition, ensuring you receive the best possible care.

2. Personalised Treatment Plans

Every neurological condition is unique. Our physiotherapists assess your specific needs and develop a treatment plan designed to address your individual challenges. Whether it’s muscle strengthening, improving balance, or reducing muscle tightness (spasticity), our team will work with you every step of the way.

3. Holistic Approach

Our neurological physiotherapy service in Northampton doesn’t just focus on exercises. We provide education, support, and guidance to help you manage your condition outside of therapy sessions. This holistic approach ensures that you can continue your recovery at home and maintain progress long-term.

4. Improve Mobility and Independence

The primary goal of neurological physiotherapy is to help you regain as much independence as possible. Whether it’s walking more confidently, improving coordination, or increasing strength, we’ll help you make measurable progress.

5. Accessible Physiotherapy in Northampton

Conveniently located in Northampton, Move4 Physio is dedicated to providing top-tier neurological physiotherapy services in a welcoming and supportive environment. Our clinic is easily accessible, and we offer flexible appointments to suit your schedule.

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What to Expect from Your Initial Neurological Physiotherapy Assessment

Your first visit to Move4 Physio will start with a thorough assessment. During the initial assessment, our experienced physiotherapists will take the time to understand your medical history, symptoms, and specific goals for recovery. The process typically includes:

1. Comprehensive History-Taking: We’ll ask about your condition, including when it started, the symptoms you’re experiencing, and how they’re affecting your daily life. This includes reviewing any prior medical treatments, medications, or surgeries relevant to your neurological condition.
2. Physical Assessment: Our physiotherapist will assess your posture, balance, strength, coordination, and mobility. You may be asked to perform specific movements or tasks to evaluate your functional abilities. We’ll also assess areas of muscle tightness, spasticity, or weakness.
3. Goal Setting: Based on your condition and the findings from the assessment, we’ll discuss your goals—whether it’s improving your ability to walk, reducing stiffness, or increasing strength—and set realistic short- and long-term objectives for treatment.
4. Treatment Plan Development: After the assessment, your physiotherapist will create a tailored treatment plan. This may include specific exercises to address your unique needs, along with hands-on therapies to improve movement and reduce symptoms. We’ll also provide education and advice to help you manage your condition between sessions.

The initial assessment is key to understanding your condition and setting the foundation for a successful rehabilitation journey.

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Why Act Now? Neurological conditions can be progressive, but timely and effective physiotherapy can slow down or improve your symptoms. Don’t wait—begin your recovery journey today with expert neurological physiotherapy at Move4 Physio Northampton.

If you’re looking for neurological physiotherapy in Northampton, reach out to our team today. Let’s work together to improve your quality of life!

The 5 Key Differences Between NHS and Private Physiotherapy

When it comes to physiotherapy, many individuals find themselves weighing the options between the National Health Service (NHS) and private practices. Both pathways offer valuable services, but they cater to different needs and preferences. Understanding the key differences can help you make an informed decision about your treatment. Here, we explore five crucial distinctions between NHS and private physiotherapy.

1. Personalised Care

One of the most significant advantages of private physiotherapy is the level of personalised care you receive. In a private setting, physiotherapists can often dedicate more time to each patient, allowing for a tailored approach that meets your unique needs. This means that treatment plans can be adapted based on your specific goals, lifestyle, and progress, leading to more effective outcomes. In contrast, NHS appointments may have a standardised approach due to time constraints, making it harder for physiotherapists to tailor care to each individual.

2. Faster Access to Care

If you’re seeking immediate treatment, private physiotherapy typically offers much faster access. With private clinics, you can often secure an appointment within days—or even the same day—of your initial inquiry. This is especially beneficial if you’re dealing with acute pain or injuries that require prompt attention. In contrast, NHS services usually involve longer waiting times, sometimes extending to several months, particularly for non-urgent conditions. For patients eager to return to their activities or alleviate discomfort quickly, private physiotherapy can be a game-changer.

3. Cost of Not Acting

Delaying treatment can lead to worsening conditions, increased pain, and prolonged recovery times. In the long run, this can translate into higher costs associated with more extensive treatments, rehabilitation, or even surgery. Private physiotherapy allows you to take action sooner, potentially avoiding these additional expenses. While private sessions do require upfront payment, the cost of not addressing an issue promptly can far exceed the expense of early intervention. On the other hand, while NHS services are free at the point of use, the wait times can exacerbate injuries, leading to further complications.

4. Cross Referrals and Waiting Times

In the NHS, physiotherapy often requires a referral from a general practitioner (GP). This can add an additional layer of waiting time, as you may first need to schedule a GP appointment before being referred to physiotherapy. Furthermore, the NHS operates within a structured system, meaning that cross-referrals to other specialists may take time. In contrast, private physiotherapy often allows for direct access. You can book an appointment without a referral, and if further treatment is required, physiotherapists can quickly refer you to other specialists or clinics, ensuring that you receive comprehensive care without unnecessary delays.

5. Convenience

Convenience is a significant factor for many when deciding between NHS and private physiotherapy. Private clinics often offer flexible appointment times, including evenings and weekends, making it easier to fit treatment into your busy schedule. Additionally, private practices might provide more locations or mobile services, allowing you to receive care closer to home or even in the comfort of your own space. In contrast, NHS clinics may have limited hours and locations, which can make it challenging to attend appointments, particularly for those with demanding jobs or family commitments.

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Conclusion

Choosing between NHS and private physiotherapy ultimately depends on your individual circumstances, preferences, and priorities. While NHS physiotherapy provides essential services at little or no cost, private physiotherapy offers benefits such as personalised care, faster access, and greater convenience. By weighing these key differences, you can make an informed decision that best suits your health and lifestyle needs. Whatever you choose, remember that timely intervention is critical to achieving the best outcomes for your health and well-being.

When seeking physiotherapy, it’s essential to know you’re in the hands of a skilled, qualified professional who can meet your specific needs. But how do you know if your physiotherapist is the right fit for you? Here’s what to look for to ensure you’re getting the best care possible.

1. Credentials and Qualifications

Your physiotherapist should be professionally certified and registered with key governing bodies like the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP). This ensures they meet the standards required to provide safe and effective care. Moreover, staying updated with continuing professional development guarantees that they are using the latest evidence-based practices.

Key takeaway: Always verify that your physio is registered with the HCPC and CSP for credibility and professional assurance.

2. Experience in Treating Specific Conditions

Physiotherapy covers a broad range of conditions, so it’s essential that your physiotherapist has experience in treating your specific issue. For instance, if you’re recovering from a sports injury, your physio should have a track record of working with athletes. An experienced physiotherapist will also be able to share success stories of patients with similar conditions, giving you confidence in their ability to help.

Key takeaway: Seek a physio with a proven history of success in treating your particular problem.

3. Personalised and Comprehensive Assessment

A good physio doesn’t just focus on symptoms. They dig deeper, assessing your lifestyle, physical limitations, and goals. During your first session, they should ask questions like:

• What activities are you currently unable to do?
• What would you like to be able to do again?

This approach ensures that the treatment plan is tailored specifically to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

Key takeaway: A thorough, personalised assessment is crucial for creating a bespoke treatment plan that works for you.

4. Clear Communication and Progress Tracking

Transparency is key in any treatment process. Your physiotherapist should clearly explain your diagnosis, treatment steps, and expected outcomes. They should also check in on your progress regularly, adjusting your plan if necessary. Realistic recovery goals, such as how many sessions you might need, should also be outlined from the start.

Key takeaway: Your physio should communicate effectively and track your progress to ensure ongoing improvements.

5. Patient-Centered Care

Empathy and a patient-centered approach make a significant difference. Your physiotherapist should listen carefully to your concerns and involve you in every decision about your care. They should also provide exercises and advice to complement your in-clinic treatments, helping you accelerate your recovery at home.

Key takeaway: Choose a physiotherapist who listens to you and provides ongoing support.

6. Results and Testimonials

One of the best ways to evaluate a physiotherapist is through patient reviews and testimonials. Whether online reviews or recommendations from friends and family, positive feedback is a good indicator of effective care. Look for stories from patients with similar conditions to yours, as this can give insight into the likely outcomes.

Key takeaway: Positive testimonials and success stories can help you gauge a physiotherapist’s effectiveness.

7. Long-Term Prevention Strategies

A great physiotherapist focuses not only on treating your current condition but also on preventing future issues. They should provide guidance on exercises, posture, and lifestyle changes that can help you avoid recurring problems, allowing you to stay healthy long after your treatment ends.

Key takeaway: Your physio should offer advice and strategies for long-term health and injury prevention.

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Conclusion: Finding a good physiotherapist is about more than just qualifications. Look for someone who provides personalized care, clear communication, and a patient-centered approach. At Move4 Physio, our team is committed to delivering high-quality, tailored physiotherapy that goes beyond just addressing symptoms. With our extensive experience, patient-focused assessments, and dedication to long-term recovery, we’re here to help you reach your goals.

For expert physiotherapy in Northamptonshire, trust Move4 Physio to guide you back to health. Reach out to us today to start your journey!

At Move4 Physio, we’re committed to helping you move better, feel better, and perform better. That’s why we’re excited to offer a new service that can help you achieve all of these goals: Gait Analysis.

What is Gait Analysis?

Gait Analysis is a comprehensive assessment of your walking and running patterns. By analyzing the way you move, we can identify any underlying issues or imbalances that may be contributing to pain, discomfort, or decreased performance.

During a Gait Analysis, our experienced physiotherapists will observe your movement patterns and analyze various aspects of your gait, including your foot strike, knee position, hip alignment, and trunk stability. We may also use specialized equipment, such as pressure plates or video analysis, to gain further insights into your movement patterns.

Benefits of Gait Analysis

There are many benefits of Gait Analysis for athletes, runners, and anyone looking to improve their movement patterns. Here are just a few:

Reduce the risk of injury

By identifying any imbalances or weaknesses in your gait, we can create a targeted exercise program to address these issues and reduce the risk of injury. The last thing anyone needs is a poorly timed niggle or injury which impacts on a training plan, or interrupts your daily routine.

Improve performance

A more efficient and balanced gait can help you move faster, run longer, and perform better. By identifying areas of your gait that need improvement, we can create a customised program to help you optimise your movement patterns and achieve your performance goals.

Alleviate pain and discomfort

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort when you walk or run, Gait Analysis can help identify the underlying cause of your symptoms. By addressing these issues, we can help alleviate your pain and improve your overall quality of life. This is obviously best used in conjunction with a thorough physiotherapy assessment. The combination of both can help to kick injury down the road, making sure it doesn’t impact your training plan.

Individualised treatment

At Move4 Physio, we believe that every body is unique. That’s why we take a personalized approach to Gait Analysis. We’ll work with you to understand your specific goals and challenges, and create a customized treatment plan that’s tailored to your individual needs.

Who can benefit from Gait Analysis?

Anyone can benefit from gait analysis as it has relevance even in the absence of injury. If you have recently taken up running, or you’re a seasoned campaigner, it’s never to late to make small changes which can have a profound impact on your experience and enjoyment of running

At Move4 Physio, we’re passionate about helping our clients achieve their goals and live their best lives. If you’re interested in Gait Analysis or any of our other services, please contact us today to schedule an appointment. We’re here to help you move better, feel better, and perform better.

Hello, everyone! It’s the team at Move4 Physio here to challenge some misconceptions about physiotherapy that may be hindering your recovery and well-being. As a patient-centered physio clinic that values education, empowerment, and innovation, we believe in dispelling myths and promoting evidence-based practice. So, let’s get to it!

Myth #1: Physiotherapy is painful and uncomfortable.

While physiotherapy may involve some discomfort or soreness as you challenge your body’s limits and adapt to new movements, it should not be excessively painful.

A good physio will work with you to set realistic goals, explain the rationale behind the treatment, and modify the intensity and duration of the exercises to suit your tolerance and progress. They will also encourage you to communicate your feedback and concerns, and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

Sometimes physiotherapy treatment can be uncomfortable, whether that’s soft tissue treatment in the guise of sports massage, or mobilisation of stiff and painful joints, be assured that the treatments we have at our disposal are not always painful.

Myth #2: Physiotherapy is a passive treatment that relies on machines and gadgets.

While physiotherapy may use some equipment and tools to aid in assessment and treatment, it is primarily a hands-on and patient-centered approach that emphasises active participation and education. Physiotherapists are trained to listen to your story, assess your movement patterns, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs and goals. They will also teach you exercises, stretches, and self-care strategies that you can do at home or work to complement the therapy and promote long-term results.

At Move4 you won’t see many gadgets or gizmo’s, we believe in strength, empowerment and our patients leading the way and taking control of their rehab journey with us by their side.

One thing we assure you is that when you come to us at Move4, you will absolutely not be asked to lie down while we attach you to a machine.

Myth #3: Physiotherapy is only for old people or people with chronic conditions.

While physiotherapy can certainly benefit older adults and people with chronic diseases, it is not limited to them. Physiotherapy can help people of all ages and backgrounds to recover from injuries, surgeries, and sports-related issues, as well as to prevent or manage common musculoskeletal problems such as back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, and knee pain.

Physiotherapy can also enhance your athletic performance, improve your posture, and boost your mental health and well-being.

You don’t even have to be injured to benefit from our services, what we offer is about making you more robust and provide longevity into your golden years.

Myth #4: Physiotherapy is expensive and time-consuming.

While physiotherapy may require some investment of time and money, it can be a worthwhile and cost-effective investment in your health and quality of life. Physiotherapy can help you avoid costly and risky procedures such as surgeries, injections, or medications, and reduce your reliance on healthcare services.

To add some context, a physio appointment will cost you as much as a 2-course dinner for 2 at your local restaurant (without drinks). Now think about the impact your physical health has on your life, and weigh up these two options – the expense pails in comparison.

Myth #5: Physiotherapy is a one-size-fits-all approach.

While physiotherapy may follow some general principles and techniques, it is not a cookie-cutter or standardised approach. Physiotherapists understand that each patient is unique and requires a personalised and dynamic treatment plan that reflects their goals, preferences, and lifestyle. Physiotherapists also keep up-to-date with the latest research and trends in the field, and integrate them into their practice to offer you the best possible care.

We hope this blog post has clarified some of the common myths about physiotherapy and encouraged you to seek the help you need from a trusted and qualified physiotherapist.

If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to contact us at Move4 Physio. We are here to help you move better, feel better, and live better!