Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a physiotherapy or massage therapy appointment?
You can book appointments quickly and securely online via our booking links or by phoning 0131 449 6128.
How do I book a class?
We offer a wide range of classes at our Balerno clinic, including Pilates, Yoga, Barre, Strength, and Circuits.
If you’re currently injured, have a medical condition, mobility concerns, or feel you may need additional support, we recommend contacting us or booking a physiotherapy assessment or Pilates 1:1 assessment before joining a class. We’ll help you find the most suitable option for your needs and goals.
Ready to get started? All classes can be booked through our Book Classes page.
How soon can I be seen?
In most cases, we can see you either on the same day or within a few days from when you contact us. This will depend on the specialty requested. We may operate a waitlist for any cancellations.
How long does an appointment last?
- Initial physiotherapy assessment: 30 - 60 minutes depending on the type of appointment. 45 minutes is our usual appointment length.
- Follow-up sessions: 30 - 60 minutes, depending on your needs
- Massage therapy: 40 - 55 minutes
- Classes: the majority of our Pilates, Yoga, Barre and Strength classes are 60 minutes long.
Do I need to see my GP first?
Not usually. You can book directly with us. The only exception is if your insurer requires a referral from one of their triage physios or a GP to be able to pre-authorise physiotherapy.
How many appointments will I need?
This depends entirely on you, your condition, and your goals. Some people come for a single appointment for expert advice before continuing their care through NHS physiotherapy. Others return regularly over months or years for maintenance and ongoing support. For many people coming with an injury, four to six appointments is a reasonable expectation, though this varies depending on the complexity of your problem and what you want to achieve.
What we will never do is book appointments you do not need. Every session is driven by your progress, your goals, and your clinical needs, and we will always be transparent with you about how your treatment is going and what we recommend next. You are in control of your care at every step.
Do you accept card payments?
Yes, we accept all major debit and credit cards.
Do you accept cash?
Yes, though most clients prefer to pay by card.
Do I have to pay online ahead of my appointment?
No, but the option to pre-pay is there when booking online.
Do you offer discounts?
If you are a member of one of our partners who receive a discount at our clinics, such as David Lloyd members in our Newhaven clinic or Currie Chieftains members, discounts are applied when paying in clinic rather than online. Any discount on appointment fees is not transferable to appointment packages. George Watson’s College pupils have their own bookable appointments on our website.
Partnership discounts
If you are a member of one of our partners who receive a discount at our clinics, such as David Lloyd members in our Newhaven clinic or EGG card holders, discounts are applied when paying in the clinic rather than online. Any discount in appointment fees is not transferable to packages of appointments. Currie Rugby Club youth members, and George Watson’s College pupils have their own bookable appointments on our website.
What can I expect at my first physiotherapy appointment?
Your first appointment is all about understanding you, your symptoms, and your goals. We’ll take the time to discuss your injury or concern, your medical history, and how the problem is affecting your daily life, work, or sport.
We’ll then complete a thorough assessment to identify the root cause of the issue, not just the symptoms. Following this, we’ll explain our findings in plain English and develop a personalised treatment and rehabilitation plan tailored to your goals.
While treatment may begin during your first appointment, lasting results often require a structured rehabilitation approach rather than a single treatment session. We’ll discuss the expected timescales for recovery, the number of appointments that may be required, and what you can do between sessions to achieve the best possible outcome.
Our aim is to ensure you leave with a clear understanding of your condition, an agreed plan for recovery, and confidence in the next steps.
What should I wear?
Please wear loose, comfortable clothing. If we need to assess your back or legs, shorts are helpful (we have spares if required). If needed for the area of treatment, you may be asked to undress to your underwear so modesty towels are always provided. Our team is always very professional and will leave the room to give you privacy as required.
Should I bring anything with me?
If you have recent hospital letter, scan or x-ray results, please bring them along. They can help inform your treatment.
What conditions do you treat?
We treat a wide range of conditions affecting muscles, joints, tendons, bones, mobility and breathing issues. This includes sports injuries, back and neck pain, arthritis, post-surgery rehab, women’s health issues, and more. Full details can be found on our Services page.
Do you treat children?
Yes, we are the leading paediatric physiotherapy clinic in Edinburgh. Our specialist paediatric knowledge and experience of treating elite youth athletes sets us apart.
Do I need to be an athlete to come to Prime?
Not at all. While we work with athletes of all levels, the majority of our clients are simply looking to move better, feel stronger, and live with less pain.
We support people of all ages, from children to older adults, whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a long-term condition, improving your strength and fitness, reducing stress and tension, or enhancing your sporting performance.
Whatever your starting point or goal, we’re here to help you move and feel your best.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies depending on your condition. At your first appointment, your physiotherapist will explain your diagnosis and recommend a tailored treatment plan. In many cases we see patients 4-6 times to allow patients to fully achieve their goals, depending on their injury or condition.
Can I bring my child with me to my appointment?
We understand childcare can be a challenge so in some cases you might need to bring your children. For safeguarding, your children will need to be with you at all times.
Will you speak to my GP about my treatment?
Your care is confidential. With your consent, we’re happy to update your GP or consultant if needed.
Can I use my private medical insurance?
Yes. We work with most major insurers (Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Vitality, Healix, WPA). Please contact your insurer before your first appointment to obtain pre-authorisation.
What details do I need to provide?
You’ll be asked to complete your consent form detailing your insurance details and pre-authorisation code before attending. Some treatments (such as shockwave therapy, respiratory physio or women’s health physiotherapy) require specific authorisation. We invoice insurers directly.
Will I have to pay anything myself?
Please make sure that you have pre-authorisation in place for treatment at Prime Sports Physiotherapy before attending to avoid your insurer declining to pay your fee. Please be aware of what your insurer will charge you in terms of your policy excess. Individual patients are responsible for settling their account where their insurer indicates that there is a shortfall.
