Question 1

"Do I need a GP referral to book?"

Accepted Answer

"No — you can book directly without a referral from your GP."

Question 2

"What happens at the first session?"

Accepted Answer

"Your first session includes a full postural and movement assessment to identify the root cause of your issue, followed by hands-on treatment. You'll leave with a clear understanding of what was found and a plan for recovery."

Question 3

"How many sessions will I need?"

Accepted Answer

"This varies depending on your condition, how long you've had it, and your goals. We'll give you a realistic indication after your initial assessment."

Question 4

"Is sports therapy only for athletes?"

Accepted Answer

"Not at all. We treat people of all activity levels — from those with desk-based postural pain to competitive athletes recovering from injury."

Question 5

"What should I wear?"

Accepted Answer

"Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows access to the area being treated. Shorts are recommended for lower limb treatment."

Question 6

"Where are you based?"

Accepted Answer

"We're located at 459 Blackpool Road, Ashton, Preston, PR2 2LE."

Question 7

"What is sports therapy?"

Accepted Answer

"Sports therapy is a branch of healthcare focused on the prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. It uses hands-on techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, and therapeutic exercise to reduce pain, restore movement, and support recovery — for people of all activity levels, not just athletes."

Question 8

"What is the difference between sports therapy and physiotherapy?"

Accepted Answer

"Sports therapists and physiotherapists share many skills, but sports therapy specialises in musculoskeletal conditions — injuries and dysfunction affecting muscles, joints, and soft tissue. Physiotherapists have a broader scope that includes neurological and respiratory conditions. For sports injuries, postural problems, and soft tissue pain, a sports therapist is often the most directly relevant specialist."

Question 9

"What conditions does sports therapy treat?"

Accepted Answer

"Sports therapy treats a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions including back and neck pain, shoulder, knee, hip, and ankle pain, muscle strains, tendinopathies, sports injuries, postural problems, and post-operative rehabilitation. It is suitable for both acute injuries and long-standing chronic conditions."

Question 10

"Can sports therapy help with back pain?"

Accepted Answer

"Yes. Back pain is one of the most common conditions treated with sports therapy. Treatment may include soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, medical acupuncture, and a personalised rehabilitation programme to address the root cause and help prevent recurrence."

Question 11

"What is medical acupuncture?"

Accepted Answer

"Medical acupuncture (also known as dry needling) uses fine sterile needles inserted into specific points in muscle tissue to relieve pain, reduce tension, and promote healing. It is grounded in Western clinical evidence and anatomy, and is used alongside other hands-on treatments at Ashton Sports Therapy."

Question 12

"What is Chinese fire cupping?"

Accepted Answer

"Chinese fire cupping is a soft tissue therapy in which heated cups are applied to the skin to create suction. This draws the tissue upward, improving blood flow, releasing muscle tension, and supporting recovery. It is particularly effective for tight muscles and myofascial restrictions."

Question 13

"How much does a sports therapy session cost in Preston?"

Accepted Answer

"Your first appointment at Ashton Sports Therapy costs £65 for 1 hour 15 minutes, covering the full consultation, assessment, and hands-on treatment. Follow-up sessions are £55 for 55 minutes or £30 for 25 minutes. Block bookings of four sessions are also available at a reduced rate. Payment is accepted by card, cash, or bank transfer."

Question 14

"How long is a sports therapy session?"

Accepted Answer

"Your first appointment is 1 hour 15 minutes and includes a full consultation, postural and movement assessment, and hands-on treatment. Follow-up sessions are either 55 minutes or 25 minutes, depending on your needs."