1. What conditions can physiotherapy help with?

Physiotherapy can help with a wide range of problems including back and neck pain, shoulder stiffness, sports injuries, arthritis, postural issues, and recovery after surgery. By combining exercise, hands-on therapy, and education, physiotherapy restores movement, reduces pain, and prevents future injuries.

2. How does acupuncture work for pain relief?

Acupuncture uses fine needles to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissue. This releases natural painkillers such as endorphins, reduces inflammation, and calms the nervous system. Many patients find it especially helpful for chronic pain, headaches, and muscle tension.

3. What is cupping therapy and what are its benefits?

Cupping therapy uses suction cups to increase blood flow, reduce muscle tightness, and improve healing. It can help with back and neck pain, sports recovery, and stress-related muscle tension. The circular marks left behind are temporary and usually fade within a week.

4. Does acupuncture hurt?

Most people are surprised by how comfortable acupuncture is. The needles are extremely fine — much thinner than a blood test needle — and are inserted gently. You may feel a light tingling, warmth, or dull ache, but it shouldn’t be painful. Many patients even find acupuncture relaxing and calming.

5. What does cupping feel like?

Cupping creates a gentle pulling sensation as the skin and tissue are lifted by suction. This isn’t painful — most people describe it as a firm pressure or stretch. The circular marks that sometimes appear are not bruises, but simply a sign of increased blood flow, and they fade within a few days.

6. Will I be sore after acupuncture or cupping?

Some patients feel mild soreness, heaviness, or temporary tightness in the treated area, similar to how you might feel after a workout. This usually settles within 24–48 hours. For most people, these are positive signs that the treatment is stimulating a healing response.

7. Is acupuncture or cupping safe?

Yes — both are very safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. At JN Physiotherapy, only sterile, single-use needles are used for acupuncture. For cupping, suction levels are carefully controlled to ensure comfort and safety throughout your session.

8. What’s the difference between sports massage and physiotherapy?

Sports massage focuses on relieving muscle tightness, improving flexibility, and aiding recovery, while physiotherapy addresses the root cause of pain and movement problems using assessment, exercise, and treatment. Many patients benefit from a combination of both.

9. How often should I have a sports massage?

It depends on your activity level and goals. Athletes in heavy training may benefit from weekly sessions, while regular gym-goers or office workers often find a massage every 2–3 weeks keeps tension under control and prevents injury.

10. Is acupuncture safe?

Yes — when performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is very safe. The needles are single-use, sterile, and extremely fine. The most common side effect is mild soreness or bruising at the needle site, which passes quickly.

11. How long does it take to see results from physiotherapy?

Some patients feel improvements after just one or two sessions, while others with long-term or complex issues may need a structured programme over several weeks. The key is consistency and following your personalised exercise plan.

12. Do you treat chronic pain?

Yes. Physiotherapy, acupuncture, and cupping can all be helpful for chronic pain conditions. We use an evidence-based approach to calm the nervous system, improve strength and mobility, and help you manage pain so you can return to normal activities.

13. Do I need a GP referral for private physiotherapy?

No referral is needed. You can book directly with JN Physiotherapy for physiotherapy, acupuncture, cupping, or sports massage. This means you can start treatment without waiting weeks for an NHS appointment.

14. Where are you based?

JN Physiotherapy is based in Birmingham and offers a range of services including physiotherapy, acupuncture, cupping, and sports massage. Sessions are available both in clinic and, in some cases, at-home for your convenience.