Living with chronic illness
Physiotherapy and movement
How physiotherapy can help, how to access NHS and private physiotherapy locally, and what to ask before you book.
When to get urgent help
Call 999 for:
- chest pain that is sudden and does not go away, or spreads to the arms, neck, jaw, stomach or back, or comes with sweating, sickness or breathlessness
- any sign of a stroke: the face drops on one side, they cannot lift both arms, or speech is slurred. Even if it stops
- severe difficulty breathing: gasping, choking or not able to get words out
- swelling of the lips, tongue or throat after a possible allergic trigger
Contact NHS 111 or your GP the same day for:
- a sudden, very painful joint that is hot, swollen or hard to move. It can be an infection, even without a temperature
- new or worsening symptoms that worry you
Do not put new symptoms down to a condition you already have without getting them checked.
How physiotherapy can help
Physiotherapists help people improve movement, manage pain and stay active. They work with back and joint problems, recovery after surgery or a fall, neurological conditions such as stroke or Parkinson's, and breathing conditions.
Getting NHS physiotherapy
Routes into NHS physiotherapy differ between services. Some accept self-referral for certain problems. Others only accept a referral from your GP, a hospital team or another professional. Check each listing below: it shows exactly what the service says.
- If you are registered with a GP in Havering, some community services may accept you directly.
- If you have just left hospital, your hospital team may already have referred you. Ask them before you contact a service.
- Waiting times vary. If your symptoms get worse while you wait, contact your GP or call NHS 111.
Private physiotherapy
Private physiotherapists in the UK must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). You can check a physiotherapist's registration on the HCPC website before you book.
Questions to ask before you book
- Do you treat my condition, and do I need a referral?
- Do you offer home visits or online sessions?
- What does the first appointment cost, and what about follow-ups?
- Is the building accessible, and is there parking nearby?
In more detail
How long will I wait?
Waiting times change often. The service can tell you its current wait when you refer. If your symptoms get worse while you wait, contact your GP or call NHS 111.
For general information only. Hadamley Information Services provides independently compiled information from publicly available sources. This content is not medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat a condition or replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Speak to your healthcare team about symptoms, treatment or changes to your health.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Wear comfortable clothes you can move in, and bring a list of your medicines. It can help to note when your pain is better or worse.
For general information only. Hadamley Information Services provides independently compiled information from publicly available sources. This content is not medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat a condition or replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Speak to your healthcare team about symptoms, treatment or changes to your health.
How do I check a private physiotherapist?
All physiotherapists in the UK must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). You can search the register on the HCPC website.
For general information only. Hadamley Information Services provides independently compiled information from publicly available sources. This content is not medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat a condition or replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Speak to your healthcare team about symptoms, treatment or changes to your health.
Something missing? Tell us.
Local services
Services that can help
- Charity
Brentwood Neuro Exercise Group
Weekly seated and standing exercise classes for people with neurological conditions.
- Area
- Brentwood
- Fees
- £4 per session, suggested donation
- Clinic
Last checked 18 September 2026 - NHSSelf-referral accepted
Havering Community Physiotherapy
NHS physiotherapy for adults with muscle, joint and back problems, at local clinics.
- Area
- Havering (borough-wide), Romford
- Fees
- Free (NHS)
- Clinic
- Online
Last checked 2 October 2026 - PrivateSelf-referral accepted
Romford Movement Clinic
Private physiotherapy with evening appointments and home visits across Havering.
- Area
- Romford, Havering (borough-wide)
- Fees
- Initial assessment £60. Follow-up £50. Home visits £80.
- Clinic
- Home visit
Last checked 24 September 2026
Page last updated 22 October 2026
