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Frequently Asked
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Common Questions
Everything you need
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Answers to the questions we hear most often. If yours isn't here, just drop us a message.
Do I need a GP referral to book?
No referral is needed. You can book directly through our online booking page. No paperwork, no waiting lists. Private physiotherapy allows you to self-refer and be seen the same weekend you book.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Your initial assessment lasts 60 minutes. We'll take a detailed history of your pain or injury, carry out a thorough physical examination, and explain exactly what we find. You'll leave with a clear diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan. Most patients also receive hands-on treatment at the same appointment.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies depending on the condition, its duration, and your goals. Many acute issues resolve in 2–4 sessions; more complex or chronic conditions may require 6–8 or ongoing maintenance. We'll give you an honest estimate after your first assessment and never recommend treatment you don't need.
What conditions do you treat?
We specialise in musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy, covering back and neck pain, shoulder, knee, hip and ankle injuries, sports-related injuries, sciatica, postural problems, and post-surgical rehabilitation. If you're unsure whether your condition fits, send us a quick message before booking.
Do you offer evening or weekday appointments?
The PhysioSphere is a weekend-only clinic, open Saturday 10am–5pm and Sunday 10am–5pm. This is intentional. We're designed for busy professionals who can't take time off during the week. Slots are limited, so we recommend booking in advance.
Can I claim on my private health insurance?
Yes. We work with most major insurers including Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality, Aviva, and Cigna. Please check with your insurer whether a GP referral is required under your policy. We can provide all the documentation and receipts you need to submit a claim.
Where exactly is the clinic and how do I get there?
We're located at Light Centre Marylebone, Unit 4, 10 Portman Square, London W1H 6AZ, easily reached via Marble Arch, Bond Street, or Baker Street tube stations, all within a short walk.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask for 24 hours' notice to cancel or rearrange an appointment. Late cancellations or no-shows may be charged at the full session rate, as weekend slots are in high demand. We understand emergencies happen. Just let us know as early as possible.
About The PhysioSphere
What is The PhysioSphere?
The PhysioSphere is a specialist weekend physiotherapy clinic based in London, focused on musculoskeletal (muscle, joint, and nerve) conditions and sports injuries. We offer one-to-one appointments on Saturdays and Sundays — specifically designed for people who cannot attend during the working week. Our sessions are led by a single, highly experienced clinician, ensuring continuity of care from first assessment through to discharge.
Who is the physiotherapist at The PhysioSphere?
The PhysioSphere was founded by Harshitha Bhaskaracharya, a HCPC-registered physiotherapist (PH120373) and member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Harshitha specialises in musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy, with experience across NHS and private settings. Every appointment at The PhysioSphere is carried out by Harshitha personally — not delegated to junior staff or assistants.
Where is The PhysioSphere located?
The PhysioSphere currently operates from Light Centre Marylebone, Unit 4, 10 Portman Square, London W1H 6AZ. The clinic is a short walk from Marble Arch, Bond Street, and Baker Street tube stations. A second location at Light Centre Monument in the City of London is now open, making The PhysioSphere accessible from both west and east-central London.
When is The PhysioSphere open?
The PhysioSphere is open every Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We do not offer weekday appointments — this is a deliberate choice. The clinic exists to serve professionals, parents, and athletes who cannot get physiotherapy during standard working hours. Booking is available online, with slots typically available within the same weekend.
Is The PhysioSphere regulated and accredited?
Yes. The PhysioSphere is led by an HCPC-registered physiotherapist (registration number PH120373). HCPC registration is a legal requirement to practise as a physiotherapist in the UK, and means your clinician has met national standards for education, conduct, and ongoing professional development. Harshitha is also a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP). You can verify registration directly on the HCPC public register.
How is The PhysioSphere different from other physiotherapy clinics?
Most physiotherapy clinics operate Monday to Friday during standard office hours — inaccessible to people who work full-time. The PhysioSphere was built specifically around the weekend, so treatment never requires taking time off work. Appointments are one-to-one, unhurried, and always with the same clinician. There are no shared waiting rooms, no rotating staff, and no rushed 20-minute slots. Every session is 45 to 60 minutes of focused, hands-on assessment and treatment.
Treatments & Techniques
What does MSK physiotherapy mean?
MSK stands for musculoskeletal — the system of muscles, bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments that gives your body structure and movement. MSK physiotherapy addresses conditions that affect this system: back pain, neck pain, joint injuries, sports strains, nerve pain such as sciatica, and postural problems. At The PhysioSphere, MSK physiotherapy is our sole focus.
What is a biomechanical assessment?
A biomechanical assessment looks at how your body moves — the alignment of your joints, how you load your feet, your posture during sport or work, and how your muscles fire in sequence. It identifies movement patterns contributing to pain or increasing injury risk. At The PhysioSphere, biomechanical analysis is part of every initial consultation and is also available as a standalone 50-minute session via ClassPass: the Biomechanical MOT.
Do you offer acupuncture or dry needling?
Yes. Harshitha is a member of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) and uses dry needling — also called Western medical acupuncture — as part of treatment where clinically appropriate. Dry needling targets specific muscle trigger points to reduce pain, release tension, and improve tissue function. It is offered within a session rather than as a standalone treatment. A dedicated Needle & Release session is also available via ClassPass.
Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
They use the same fine needles, but the approach is different. Traditional acupuncture is based on Chinese meridian theory. Dry needling, as practised by AACP physiotherapists, is grounded in anatomy and neuroscience — targeting myofascial trigger points within muscles to release tension and reduce referred pain. At The PhysioSphere, dry needling is used selectively as a clinical tool, not offered routinely to every patient.
Is The PhysioSphere the right clinic for me if I don't play sport?
Yes. Although we have a strong sports physiotherapy background, the majority of our patients are not athletes. Most are desk workers, parents, and active professionals dealing with back pain, neck pain, joint stiffness, or postural issues from everyday life. The term sports physiotherapy simply refers to a high standard of musculoskeletal assessment and hands-on treatment — it is not limited to athletes.
Trust & Reviews
How do I know The PhysioSphere is trustworthy?
The PhysioSphere is led by an HCPC-registered physiotherapist (PH120373) — HCPC registration is a legal requirement to practise as a physiotherapist in the UK, and means your clinician meets national standards for training, conduct, and ongoing professional development. Harshitha is also a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and AACP-accredited for acupuncture. Registration can be verified directly on the HCPC public register. The clinic holds 18 five-star reviews on Google, a 5.0 average rating, earned across one-to-one weekend sessions in central London.
What do patients say about The PhysioSphere?
The PhysioSphere has 18 five-star reviews on Google with a 5.0 average rating. Patients consistently highlight clear explanations, genuine hands-on treatment, and measurable progress from the very first session. Common themes include relief from long-standing back pain, running injuries, neck and shoulder tension, and post-operative recovery. You can read all 18 reviews here or view them directly on Google.
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