What We Treat
Do I need to know my condition before booking a session?
No, you don’t need to know your specific condition before starting treatment. These are just a few examples of conditions we can address in our online physiotherapy sessions, but most people come to us seeking a diagnosis. We also offer a free 10-minute discovery call if you're unsure whether online physiotherapy is the right fit for you. We're here to support you on your health journey and will let you know if another approach would better suit your needs.
Neck-Related Headaches and Dizziness:
1. Cervicogenic Headache
This type of headache originates from issues in the neck, often involving the joints, muscles, or nerves in the upper cervical spine. Pain is typically felt at the base of the skull, radiating to the forehead and temples.
2. Cervicogenic Dizziness
Cervicogenic dizziness is a sensation of unsteadiness or lightheadedness that originates from issues in the neck, often due to muscle tension, or joint dysfunction. This type of dizziness can occur with neck pain or stiffness, especially during certain movements or prolonged positions, and is thought to result from disrupted signals between the neck and balance centres in the brain.
1. Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve)
Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the neck becomes compressed or irritated, often due to a bulging disc or arthritis. Symptoms include pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness radiating down the arm.
2. Neck Strain
A neck strain happens when muscles or joints in the neck are overstretched, overworked or injured, often from prolonged positions, or repetitive strain. Symptoms include localised pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the neck.
3. Cervical Spondylosis (Neck Arthritis)
Cervical spondylosis is age-related wear and tear of the joints and discs in the neck. It can cause pain, stiffness, and sometimes nerve compression, leading to arm or hand symptoms.
4. Whiplash
Whiplash is an injury to the neck muscles and ligaments caused by a sudden, forceful back-and-forth movement of the neck, commonly from car accidents. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and sometimes dizziness.
5. Cervicogenic Headache
This type of headache originates from issues in the neck, often involving the joints, muscles, or nerves in the upper cervical spine. Pain is typically felt at the base of the skull, radiating to the forehead and temples.
6. Disc Herniation in the Neck
A herniated disc occurs when the cushioning disc between two neck vertebrae protrudes or ruptures, potentially pressing on nearby nerves. Symptoms include neck pain, arm pain, tingling, and weakness.
7. Disc Bulge in the Neck
A bulging disc happens when the cushioning disc between two vertebrae in the neck extends out beyond its usual boundaries, often due to age-related changes or strain. Unlike a herniated disc, it doesn’t rupture but may still press on nearby nerves, causing neck pain, stiffness, or symptoms radiating into the arm.
Shoulder Conditions:
1. Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help lift and rotate the shoulder. Tendinopathy occurs when these tendons are overused or strained, leading to pain and weakness, especially during overhead activities.
2. Rotator Cuff-Related Shoulder Pain
This condition involves discomfort, limited movement or both due to changes in the rotator cuff muscles or tendons, which are responsible for shoulder stability and lifting actions. Pain usually develops gradually with repetitive activities or overuse and is often felt during reaching or lifting movements.
3. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder involves stiffness and pain due to the thickening and tightening of the joint capsule, which restricts shoulder movement. It typically progresses in three phases: freezing, frozen, and thawing, with a gradual improvement over time.
4. Shoulder Instability
Instability occurs when the shoulder joint is too loose, often due to injury, repetitive strain, or a previous dislocation. It can cause the shoulder to feel as if it’s slipping out of place, particularly during certain movements.
5. Shoulder Arthritis
Arthritis in the shoulder happens when the cartilage cushioning the joint wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement.
6. Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa—a small, fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint. It often occurs with repetitive shoulder movements or after injury, causing pain and swelling.
7. Labral Tear
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps keep the shoulder stable. Tears can occur from injury, overuse, or age-related wear and tear, leading to pain, clicking, or instability in the shoulder.
8. ACJ Dysfunction (Acromioclavicular Joint)
ACJ connects the collarbone to the shoulder blade, and dysfunction here often results from overuse, injury, or arthritis. Symptoms include pain at the top front of the shoulder, especially with reaching across the body or lifting overhead. ACJ dysfunction can lead to tenderness, swelling, and sometimes a visible bump at the joint.
9. Biceps Tendinopathy
Biceps tendinopathy is inflammation of the biceps tendon, which connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder. This condition often develops from repetitive overhead activities or heavy lifting, causing pain in the front of the shoulder, especially with lifting, pulling, or rotating the arm.
1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow is a condition caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm, leading to pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow. It’s often associated with repetitive gripping or wrist extension activities.
2. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Golfer’s elbow occurs when the tendons on the inside of the elbow become inflamed due to repetitive motions, such as swinging a golf club or lifting. This condition results in pain and stiffness on the inner side of the elbow.
3. Elbow Bursitis
Elbow bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the elbow joint. It can result from injury, prolonged pressure, or infection, causing swelling and pain at the back of the elbow.
4. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inside of the elbow, becomes compressed. Symptoms include tingling or numbness in the ring and little fingers, often worsened by bending the elbow.
5. Elbow Dislocation
An elbow dislocation happens when the bones in the elbow joint are forced out of their normal positions, often due to trauma or injury. This condition can cause severe pain, swelling, and an inability to move the arm.
Wrist and Hand Conditions:
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed. This can cause symptoms like numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, particularly in the thumb and first three fingers, often worsening at night.
2. Tendinitis
Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons in the wrist or hand, often caused by repetitive motions or overuse. Symptoms include pain and tenderness, especially during activities that require gripping or twisting.
3. De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
This condition involves inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain and swelling near the base of the thumb. It often results from repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as texting or using a mouse.
4. Wrist Sprain
A wrist sprain occurs when the ligaments in the wrist are stretched or torn, usually due to a fall or sudden twist. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the wrist, especially during gripping activities.
5. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is degeneration of the joint that can affect the wrist and hand joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. It often results from wear and tear over time.
6. Wrist Fractures
Wrist fractures are breaks in one or more of the bones in the wrist, commonly occurring from falls, sports injuries, or accidents. Symptoms typically include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the wrist or hand. The most common type of wrist fracture is a distal radius fracture, often seen when someone tries to catch themselves during a fall.
Middle Back Conditions:
1. Facet Joint Dysfunction
Facet joint dysfunction occurs when the small joints located at the back of the spine become irritated or inflamed, often due to degeneration, injury, or prolonged positions. This condition can cause localised pain in the thoracic spine, stiffness, and reduced mobility, sometimes radiating to other areas. Symptoms may worsen with certain movements, such as twisting or bending.
2. Thoracic Disc Bulge
A thoracic disc bulge occurs when the outer layer of a spinal disc in the thoracic spine weakens, allowing the inner gel-like material to bulge outward. This bulging can put pressure on nearby nerves, leading to symptoms such as localised back pain, numbness, or tingling in the chest or abdomen. It often results from age-related degeneration, trauma, or repetitive strain.
3. Thoracic Spondylosis
Thoracic spondylosis is a degenerative condition caused by wear and tear on the discs and joints of the thoracic spine, commonly associated with aging. Symptoms may include stiffness, back pain, and reduced flexibility, especially after prolonged periods of inactivity.
4. Compression Fractures
Compression fractures of the thoracic spine are common, particularly in older adults with osteoporosis. These fractures occur when the vertebrae weaken and collapse, leading to back pain, a hunched posture, and a loss of height.
5. Mechanical Thoracic Spine Pain
Mechanical thoracic spine pain is discomfort that arises from the muscles, joints, or discs in the thoracic region due to factors such as overuse, or injury. This type of pain is often characterised by stiffness and soreness that can be exacerbated by certain movements or prolonged positions. Symptoms may improve with rest or changes in activity.
Lower Back Conditions:
1. Lumbar Disc Herniation
A lumbar disc herniation occurs when the inner material of a spinal disc in the lower back pushes through the outer layer, often pressing on nearby nerves. This can lead to lower back pain, as well as pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates down the leg (sciatica).
2. Lumbar Disc Bulge
A lumbar disc bulge occurs when the outer layer of a spinal disc in the lumbar spine weakens, allowing the inner gel-like material to bulge outward. This bulging can put pressure on nearby nerves, leading to symptoms such as localised back pain, stiffness, numbness, or tingling in the leg.
3. Lumbar Spondylosis (Arthritis of the Lower Back)
Lumbar spondylosis is age-related degeneration of the joints, discs, and bones in the lower back. This can lead to stiffness, lower back pain, and sometimes nerve compression symptoms like tingling or weakness in the legs.
4. Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica)
Sciatica is caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the legs. It typically results in sharp or burning pain that radiates along the path of the nerve, often affecting one side of the body.
5. Mechanical Lumbar Spine Pain
Mechanical lumbar spine pain is discomfort that arises from the muscles, joints, or discs in the lumbar region due to factors such as overuse, or injury. This type of pain is often characterised by stiffness and soreness that can be exacerbated by certain movements or prolonged positions. Symptoms may improve with rest or changes in activity.
6. Lumbar Strain
A lumbar strain is an injury to the muscles or tendons in the lower back, often from overuse, heavy lifting, or sudden movements. It causes localised pain and stiffness, making it difficult to bend or twist comfortably.
7. Spinal Stenosis
Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back, which can compress the nerves. This can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs, often worsening with prolonged standing or walking.
8. Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra in the lower back moves forward over the one below it. This condition can cause lower back pain and, if nerves are affected, pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs.
9. Sacroiliac Joint (SIJ) Dysfunction
SIJ dysfunction occurs when the sacroiliac joints, which connect the pelvis to the spine, become irritated. This condition causes lower back and buttock pain that may worsen with prolonged sitting, standing, or certain movements.
Buttock Conditions:
1. Gluteal Tendinopathy
Gluteal tendinopathy is a condition caused by overuse or strain of the tendons that attach the gluteal muscles to the hip. This often leads to pain and tenderness on the outer side of the hip, especially when lying on that side, climbing stairs, or standing after prolonged sitting.
2. Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle in the buttock irritates or compresses the sciatic nerve. This can cause pain in the buttock, along with tingling or numbness that may radiate down the leg, similar to sciatica.
3. Gluteal Muscle Strain
A gluteal muscle strain is an injury to the muscle fibres in the buttocks, often resulting from overstretching or overuse. It causes localised pain, stiffness, and difficulty with activities like walking, running, or climbing stairs.
4. Ischiogluteal Bursitis
Ischiogluteal bursitis is inflammation of the bursa near the ischial tuberosity (sitting bone) in the buttock area. This condition often leads to pain in the lower buttock, especially when sitting for long periods or during activities like running.
1. Hip Osteoarthritis
Hip osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where the cartilage in the hip joint gradually wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Symptoms can worsen with activity and may make walking or standing for long periods uncomfortable.
2. Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)
GTPS is an umbrella term for conditions causing pain on the outer hip, often related to inflammation or irritation of tendons and bursae near the greater trochanter bone. Symptoms include hip pain that can radiate to the thigh and worsen with movement or pressure.
3. Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
FAI is a hip condition where the shape of the hip joint can limit smooth movement, leading to hip or groin pain, especially with activities that involve twisting, bending, or pivoting. FAI can make certain hip movements feel restricted and may contribute to discomfort over time.
4. Trochanteric Bursitis
Trochanteric bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac) near the outer part of the hip. This can cause sharp or aching pain on the side of the hip, often worsening with activities like walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side.
5. Hip Tendinopathy
Hip tendinopathy is an overuse injury affecting the tendons around the hip, causing pain and stiffness in the hip or groin. It may result from repetitive activities, like running or dancing, and can limit hip strength and movement.
6. Snapping Hip Syndrome
Snapping hip syndrome is characterized by a clicking or snapping sensation when the hip moves, often caused by tendons or muscles moving over bony structures. While typically painless, it can cause discomfort or lead to inflammation if it becomes severe.
7. Hip Muscle Strain
A hip muscle strain is an injury to the muscle fibers in the hip area, often from overstretching, overuse, or sudden movements. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the hip, which can affect activities like walking or running.
1. Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage cushioning the knee joint gradually wears down over time. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling, making it harder to walk, bend, or stand for long periods.
2. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
PFPS, also known as "runner’s knee", is characterised by pain around or behind the kneecap, especially with activities like squatting, climbing stairs, or sitting for long periods. It often results from overuse, muscle imbalances, or improper movement patterns.
3. Meniscus Tear
A meniscus tear is an injury to the cartilage that acts as a shock absorber in the knee joint. It can occur from a sudden twist or pivot and may cause pain, swelling, and a catching or locking sensation in the knee.
4. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury
An ACL injury is a tear or sprain of the anterior cruciate ligament, one of the major ligaments in the knee. It often occurs in sports involving sudden stops or changes in direction, leading to knee pain, swelling, and instability.
5. Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee)
Patellar tendinopathy, or "jumper's knee," involves irritation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. Common in jumping sports, it leads to pain just below the kneecap that may worsen with physical activity.
6. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)
ITBS occurs when the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue running along the outer thigh, becomes tight or irritated. This can lead to pain on the outer side of the knee, often worsening with activities like running or cycling.
7. Bursitis
Knee bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac near the knee joint. It can cause pain and swelling, especially with repetitive kneeling, bending, or other knee-intensive activities.
8. Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury
A PCL injury is damage to the posterior cruciate ligament, which helps stabilise the knee. This injury often results from a direct impact to the front of the knee and can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty with knee stability.
9. Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injury
An MCL injury involves the medial collateral ligament, which runs along the inner side of the knee and provides stability. This injury is often caused by a direct blow to the outside of the knee, leading to pain, swelling, and instability on the inner knee. MCL injuries are common in contact sports and may vary from mild sprains to complete tears.
10. Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injury
An LCL injury affects the lateral collateral ligament, located on the outer side of the knee. It typically results from a force pushing the knee outward, causing pain, swelling, and instability on the outer knee. LCL injuries are less common but may occur in activities involving sudden changes in direction or impact.
Ankle and Foot Conditions:
1. Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments that support the ankle, often caused by rolling or twisting the ankle. This can result in pain, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the foot, with varying severity.
2. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot connecting the heel to the toes. It causes sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of standing.
3. Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often develops from overuse. It leads to pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, particularly during physical activity like running or jumping, and may worsen without proper care.
4. Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths on the underside of the heel bone that can develop due to ongoing strain on foot muscles and ligaments. While not always painful, they can sometimes cause discomfort, especially during walking or standing.
5. Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma is a condition where a nerve between the toes becomes thickened, leading to pain, tingling, or numbness in the ball of the foot. It often affects the area between the third and fourth toes and can feel like a pebble is stuck in the shoe.
6. Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)
PTTD, or "fallen arches," occurs when the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch of the foot, becomes weakened or injured. This can lead to flatfoot, pain, and swelling along the inner ankle and foot, especially with standing or walking.
7. Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones, often in the foot or ankle, due to repetitive impact or overuse. Common in runners and athletes, they cause localised pain and tenderness that worsens with activity but may improve with rest.
8. Bunions
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, often from pressure on the joint over time. This can lead to swelling, pain, and difficulty with shoe fitting, as the big toe may start to lean towards the other toes.
9. Ankle Osteoarthritis
Ankle osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where cartilage in the ankle joint wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This can make activities like walking or climbing stairs challenging over time.
10. Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is a condition characterised by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, typically under the metatarsal bones near the toes. It often results from high-impact activities, poorly fitting shoes, or foot structure, leading to a burning or aching sensation that can worsen with standing, walking, or running.