Question 1

Do I need a GP referral?

Accepted Answer

No. Private physiotherapy is fully self-referral. You can book directly without seeing your GP first, for any appointment type including MSK, neurological and acupuncture. If your assessment indicates that further investigation is needed, Marcus will advise you clearly on what those next steps should be.

Question 2

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way is online: our booking portal lets you choose your appointment type, date and time instantly. You can also call 07586 605462 or email Jointventurephysiotherapy@gmail.com. Same-week appointments are usually available. If you're unsure which appointment type is right for your situation, call us and we'll help you decide.

Question 3

What appointment types are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer three formats: in-clinic appointments at Flexspace Bolton; video or phone consultations for patients who prefer to be seen remotely; and home visit assessments across Bolton and Greater Manchester for those who are unable to travel. Not every treatment can be delivered remotely. Marcus will advise on the most appropriate format for your condition.

Question 4

What are your opening hours?

Accepted Answer

We're open Monday to Friday 17:00–21:00 and Saturday 08:30–14:00. Appointments are intentionally scheduled outside standard working hours so that physiotherapy fits around work, school and family commitments, not the other way around.

Question 5

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We ask for at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Please call or email us as soon as possible and we'll do our best to find you an alternative slot. Late cancellations or missed appointments may be charged.

Question 6

What happens at my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your initial assessment lasts 40 minutes and is fully focused on understanding your condition in depth. Marcus will take a detailed history, covering when the problem started, what makes it better or worse, your work, sport, and previous treatment, then carry out a thorough physical examination. By the end of the session you'll have a clear diagnosis, an explanation of what's driving your symptoms, and an agreed treatment plan. Not vague recommendations. A specific, structured plan from the first visit.

Question 7

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the condition and how long you've had it. Most acute musculoskeletal injuries resolve meaningfully within 3–6 sessions. More complex or chronic presentations, including neurological conditions and persistent pain, typically require a longer programme. Marcus will give you a realistic indication at your initial assessment and update that estimate as treatment progresses.

Question 8

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area being treated. For lower limb problems, shorts or leggings work well. For shoulder, neck or back issues, a vest top or t-shirt is ideal. You'll be asked to remove footwear at the clinic.

Question 9

Are remote appointments as effective as in-clinic?

Accepted Answer

For assessment, exercise rehabilitation, education and programme progression, remote appointments are highly effective, and for many patients they're more convenient. Hands-on techniques such as manual therapy, joint mobilisation and acupuncture require in-person attendance. Marcus will advise you on the most appropriate format for your specific condition and stage of treatment.

Question 10

Do you offer acupuncture as a standalone treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Acupuncture is available as a standalone 30-minute session or as part of a broader physiotherapy programme. For conditions that respond best to a course of treatment, block bookings of 6 sessions are available at £250, a saving of £38 versus individual session pricing.

Question 11

Do you accept private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Joint Venture Physiotherapy is recognised by all major UK private health insurers, including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality and WPA. Check your policy to confirm that physiotherapy is covered and whether a GP referral is required by your insurer before booking. If you need help understanding your coverage, contact us and we'll assist where we can.

Question 12

Are there any discounts available?

Accepted Answer

Reduced rates are available for students and patients under 18, please mention this when booking. Acupuncture block bookings (6 sessions for £250) also represent a meaningful saving over individual pricing. We believe good physiotherapy should be accessible, and we're happy to discuss options if cost is a concern.

Question 13

Is there a block booking discount for acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A block of 6 acupuncture sessions is available for £250, saving £38 compared to booking individually at £48 per session. Block bookings work well for conditions that benefit from a sustained course of treatment. Marcus will advise whether this is the right approach for your presentation.

Question 14

Where is the clinic located?

Accepted Answer

We're based at Flexspace Bolton (Lythgoe House), Manchester Road, Bolton, BL3 2NZ. Free 24/7 parking is available directly outside. The clinic is on the ground floor and is fully wheelchair accessible, a short drive from Bolton town centre along the A666.

Question 15

Who is Marcus?

Accepted Answer

Marcus is the Clinical Lead at Joint Venture Physiotherapy. He holds a Masters in Advanced Clinical Practice, a qualification held by fewer than 5% of UK physiotherapists, and is HCPC registered and a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. His background spans the NHS, private practice and elite professional sport: he served as physiotherapist across several professional sports teams, where evidence-based rehabilitation under pressure is a professional standard.

Question 16

Are corticosteroid injections available?

Accepted Answer

Corticosteroid injections are being added to the clinic's services shortly. Marcus is qualified in injection therapy and will offer this for appropriate conditions, including inflammatory joint problems, tendinopathy and bursitis, where injection is indicated as part of a broader management plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Booking & Appointments

Treatments & What to Expect

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