Physiotherapy FAQs
1. Do I need a doctor’s referral?
Nope! You can book in with Pivotal Physiotherapy directly through the website or via email/phone call without prior referral.
2. Am I covered by ACC?
Depending on the nature and onset of your injury, you may be eligible for ACC-funded treatment. This means that you pay a subsidised appointment fee rather than the full private cost. If you don’t have an ACC claim already, your physio can discuss this with you at your initial appointment and create a claim for you online.
3. Do I need to bring anything with me to my appointment?
If you have any relevant documentation such as a referral letter from your doctor or specialist, ACC claim details, or anything else that may be useful then please bring it along to your first appointment.
We always have a spare pair of shorts and blankets/towels in the clinic, so if you forget to wear the appropriate clothing on the day we’ve got you covered - literally!
Please note: if you are attending a running clinic consultation then please remember to wear active wear, and bring along your running shoes plus orthotics if you have them.
4. Will I need any imaging or X-rays?
Imaging (plain X-ray, ultrasound or MRI) can be indicated in the event of certain injuries or conditions, although this depends on your presentation, history and symptoms. A referral can be made for imaging if appropriate.
Pelvic Health FAQs
1. Am I covered by ACC for a maternal birth injury claim?
Maternal birth injuries that occur on or after the 1st Oct 22 will now be acknowledged by ACC. Depending on the specific injury, your midwife, doctor or women's health physio at Pivotal can lodge a claim on your behalf.
If you are unsure and would like to know prior to booking your appointment, please feel free to get in touch and we would be more than happy to advise!
Prenatal assessments are always advised for soon to be mums and can be carried out during the second and third trimester. We suggest booking in at around 16-18 weeks gestation - or earlier if there is anything that you are particularly concerned about.
These appointments are here to help advise you on safe exercise during pregnancy, pelvic floor exercises and to provide relief from any aches or pains that you might be experiencing as your body changes.
3. How soon after having my baby should I book in for a postnatal check?
Any time from 6 weeks post delivery (vaginal or c- section) is a great time to book in for a postnatal physiotherapy appointment. If there is something that you are particularly concerned about prior to this, please give us a call/email and we might consider an earlier session.
A postnatal appointment will involve a full history including information about your pregnancy, delivery and initial recovery. We may ask questions about your bladder/bowel function and exercise goals.
These appointments will often involve a physical assessment, please speak to your physiotherapist if you are concerned about this.
4. Can I bring my baby?
Please do! We love meeting your wee ones and having a snuggle so feel free to bring bubs along to your appointment as needed.
5. What is involved in a pelvic floor assessment?
Pelvic floor assessments will often involve an internal vaginal exam to assess the strength, mobility and coordination of your pelvic floor muscles and the surrounding fascia. Real time ultrasound and external palpation can also be done if you are not comfortable to have an internal exam. Your informed consent will always be gained prior to any examination, following the discussion of any concerns that you may have.