Do I need a doctor's prescription for physiotherapy?

Yes, for basic health insurance to cover the costs, you need a doctor's prescription. Your GP or a specialist will issue this, usually for a series of nine sessions.

Does physiotherapy hurt?

Treatment should challenge but not torment you. A pulling sensation during stretches or muscle soreness after training are normal; address stronger pain directly so the therapist can adjust the intensity.

How quickly does physiotherapy work?

That depends very much on your starting point. Some notice improvement after just a few sessions; with longer-standing complaints it often takes several weeks of regular practice before the success stabilises.

Do I really have to practise at home?

The home programme is a central part of therapy: the sessions set the direction, but repetition in daily life brings the actual change. It is usually only a few exercises that can be easily incorporated.

What does physiotherapy cost?

With a medical prescription, the practice usually bills directly through the mandatory basic insurance; you bear the franchise and the co-payment. Without a prescription, self-pay rates apply, which vary depending on the practice.

Can I freely choose the physiotherapy practice?

Yes, with a valid prescription you can generally attend any recognised physiotherapy practice of your choice. For special techniques, it is worth asking specifically for appropriately trained therapists.

Physiotherapy — Procedure, Preparation & Cost

Physiotherapy helps you regain mobility, strength and confidence in your own body — after an injury, surgery or with persistent pain. The focus is on targeted exercises and manual techniques tailored to your situation. The goal is always to help you manage daily life as well as possible again.

Typical Areas of Use

Back and neck pain
After surgery and injuries
Joint problems and osteoarthritis
Tendon and muscle problems
Balance and fall prevention

How It Works

1In the first session, the physiotherapist discusses your complaints and goals and examines your mobility, strength and movement patterns — this forms the basis for the treatment plan.
2In subsequent sessions, she combines active exercises, manual techniques and complementary measures such as heat, cold or ultrasound, depending on your needs.
3You will receive a home programme with a few targeted exercises — regular practice at home contributes significantly to success.
4Progress is continuously reviewed and the programme adjusted; towards the end of the series, the focus is on returning to everyday life, work or sport.

How to Prepare

Wear or bring comfortable, movement-friendly clothing.
Bring your doctor's prescription and any reports or images (e.g. MRI, X-ray).
For complaints in the legs: pack suitable shoes or trainers.

Side Effects & Risks

Muscle soreness or a temporary increase in symptoms after the first sessions is common and usually harmless.
After manual techniques, brief tenderness to pressure may occur.
If exercises are performed too intensively or incorrectly, overload is possible — therefore report pain directly during therapy.
Serious complications are very rare when treatment is carried out properly.

Afterwards — and When to Seek Help

After a session, the treated areas may feel somewhat tired or tender — this usually subsides within one to two days. Continue your home programme as discussed with you, and stay moderately active in daily life. Contact your therapist or doctor if pain increases significantly after treatment, radiates to new areas, or if numbness, signs of paralysis or severe swelling occur.

Cost & Insurance

Physiotherapy is generally covered by mandatory basic insurance if it is prescribed by a doctor — prescriptions are typically issued for series of nine sessions, which can be extended if needed. Franchise and co-payment apply as usual. Without a prescription (e.g., preventive training), the service usually has to be paid for yourself or is covered through supplementary insurance — if in doubt, ask your insurer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a doctor's prescription for physiotherapy?: Yes, for basic health insurance to cover the costs, you need a doctor's prescription. Your GP or a specialist will issue this, usually for a series of nine sessions.
Does physiotherapy hurt?: Treatment should challenge but not torment you. A pulling sensation during stretches or muscle soreness after training are normal; address stronger pain directly so the therapist can adjust the intensity.
How quickly does physiotherapy work?: That depends very much on your starting point. Some notice improvement after just a few sessions; with longer-standing complaints it often takes several weeks of regular practice before the success stabilises.
Do I really have to practise at home?: The home programme is a central part of therapy: the sessions set the direction, but repetition in daily life brings the actual change. It is usually only a few exercises that can be easily incorporated.
What does physiotherapy cost?: With a medical prescription, the practice usually bills directly through the mandatory basic insurance; you bear the franchise and the co-payment. Without a prescription, self-pay rates apply, which vary depending on the practice.
Can I freely choose the physiotherapy practice?: Yes, with a valid prescription you can generally attend any recognised physiotherapy practice of your choice. For special techniques, it is worth asking specifically for appropriately trained therapists.