CHOOSING THE RIGHT PERSON · ST ALBANS
Sports Therapy, physiotherapy, osteopathy or chiropractic care?
If pain, an injury or reduced movement is getting in the way, choosing between professional titles can be confusing. Start with what is troubling you, how it affects daily life and what you want to get back to.
Statera Therapy provides Sports Therapy. Harrison Chan is a Sports Therapist with a First-Class BSc (Hons) in Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation and eight years of experience. He is not a physiotherapist, osteopath or chiropractor.
A quick answer
Several professions work with muscle, joint and movement problems, so there can be overlap in the reasons people seek help. Their training, professional titles and scope are different.
Sports Therapy at Statera may be suitable when pain, an injury or a recurring problem is affecting work, sleep, exercise or normal movement. The first appointment considers your history, movement, strength and goals. Harrison then explains what the assessment suggests, agrees practical next steps and recommends medical review or another professional when that would be more appropriate.
Sports Therapy at Statera
Sports Therapy combines assessment, clear explanation, treatment and rehabilitation for musculoskeletal pain, injuries and movement problems within Harrison's scope. It is not only for athletes.
At Statera, a new pain, injury, recurring problem or uncertain symptom starts with the 60-minute Initial MSK Assessment. The appointment costs £70 and gives enough time to understand what is happening and decide on the next step.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is a regulated profession with a broad scope. Physiotherapists may work with musculoskeletal problems as well as neurological, respiratory and other health needs. In the UK, physiotherapist and physical therapist are protected titles and practitioners must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council.
Statera does not provide physiotherapy. If you specifically need a physiotherapist, check the HCPC register or use an NHS or private physiotherapy service.
Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a regulated profession. Osteopaths assess and treat a range of problems, commonly including musculoskeletal pain, and may use physical examination, manual techniques, movement and advice. Anyone practising as an osteopath in the UK must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council.
Statera does not provide osteopathy. If you specifically want osteopathic care, use the General Osteopathic Council register to find and check a practitioner.
Chiropractic care
Chiropractic is a regulated profession that focuses particularly on the spine and musculoskeletal system. Care may include spinal adjustments or other manual therapies, exercise and lifestyle advice. Chiropractors practising in the UK must be registered with the General Chiropractic Council.
Statera does not provide chiropractic care. If you specifically want a chiropractor, use the General Chiropractic Council register to check that the practitioner is registered.
Who should I see for back pain?
When to seek medical help first
Routine therapy is not the right first step for every symptom. Seek urgent medical advice for serious trauma, chest pain, sudden or rapidly worsening weakness, new bladder or bowel changes, numbness around the genitals or bottom, or severe symptoms with fever or feeling very unwell. Use NHS 111 for urgent guidance and 999 or A&E for an emergency.
Your next step
If you have a new pain or injury and Sports Therapy sounds suitable, book the 60-minute Initial MSK Assessment for £70. If you are unsure, contact Statera before booking. Harrison will tell you honestly if another route is more appropriate.
Clinically reviewed by Harrison Chan, Sports Therapist â 14 October 2026.