FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions | Alter Physio & Acupuncture Amsterdam
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about physiotherapy and acupuncture at Alter Physio & Acupuncture & Acupuncture in Amsterdam.
First Visit & Appointments
What happens during my first appointment?
Your first session begins with an intake: we listen to your story, ask about your history, lifestyle, and goals. Then we assess your movement, posture, and pain patterns. By the end of the session you’ll have a clear picture of what’s causing your symptoms and a personalised treatment plan.
How long is each session?
Physiotherapy sessions are 25 or 55 minutes, depending on the type of treatment.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No — you can book directly with us without a GP referral. If your insurer requires one for reimbursement, we can advise you on how to arrange it quickly.
What should I bring or wear?
Wear comfortable, loose clothing. For back or hip complaints, shorts are useful. We provide towels and gowns when needed. No special equipment required.
Physiotherapy
What conditions do you treat with physiotherapy?
We treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions including back pain, neck pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, sports injuries, chronic pain, and more. See our full complaints overview.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies by condition and individual. Many acute injuries improve significantly within 3–6 sessions. Chronic or complex issues may take longer. We give you a clear estimate after your first assessment.
Is your physiotherapist BIG-registered?
Hide Kuwabara is a BIG-registered physiotherapist (Fysiotherapeut). Because we are not contracted with Dutch insurers, you pay for treatment directly and receive an invoice to submit yourself. Whether your policy reimburses it, for how many sessions and how much, depends on your insurer; as a non-contracted practice reimbursement is partial, not full. Depending on your policy, employer-provided or international insurance often covers physiotherapy in full. Please check with your insurer.
Acupuncture
Does acupuncture hurt?
Japanese acupuncture uses very fine needles — much thinner than those used in traditional Chinese acupuncture. The sensation often feels different from what many people expect. Many describe a gentle warmth or heaviness, and find sessions deeply relaxing.
What is the difference between Japanese and Chinese acupuncture?
Japanese acupuncture uses finer needles, shallower insertion, and a more delicate touch. It emphasises precise palpation and subtle correction. The effect is often gentler but deeply effective, with less sensation than Chinese-style needling. Learn more about Japanese acupuncture.
What can acupuncture help with?
Acupuncture at our clinic can help with stress and burnout, sleep problems, hormonal imbalance, digestive issues, chronic pain, fatigue, and more.
Can I combine physiotherapy and acupuncture?
Absolutely — this is one of our key strengths. Hidekazu Kuwabara is a BIG-registered physiotherapist. He is trained in dry needling and has also studied Japanese acupuncture with a Japanese acupuncture association in Europe, and integrates needling techniques into his physiotherapy treatments where appropriate. Acupuncture treatments at Alter Physio are given by independent, licensed acupuncturists who practise at Alter Physio & Acupuncture. This integrated approach often produces faster and more lasting results.
Insurance & Costs – Vergoeding
Is physiotherapy covered by Dutch health insurance?
Alter Physio & Acupuncture is a private clinic (particuliere praktijk). We are not contracted with Dutch health insurers (geen contract met zorgverzekeraars), which means Dutch basic insurance (basisverzekering) does not cover our treatments.
Whether your supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering) reimburses physiotherapy, for how many sessions and how much, depends on your policy. Because we are a non-contracted practice, reimbursement is partial, not full — even sessions your policy lists as covered are only partly reimbursed. The same applies to house visits. Depending on your policy, employer-provided or international insurance often covers physiotherapy in full. Acupuncture at Alter Physio & Acupuncture is private pay and is not covered by Dutch health insurance. Depending on your policy, employer-provided or international insurance often covers acupuncture in full — please check with your insurer. We recommend checking your policy details before booking.
Is acupuncture covered?
The independent, licensed acupuncturists who practise at Alter Physio & Acupuncture hold a Japanese qualification, which is currently not recognised by Dutch health insurers. This means acupuncture treatments at our clinic are not reimbursed by Dutch supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering), regardless of your policy level. Depending on your policy, employer-provided or international insurance often covers acupuncture in full — please check with your insurer.
Acupuncture is paid out of pocket. We are transparent about costs upfront — please contact us for current rates.
Do you work with international health insurance?
Yes — international insurance accepted. You pay us and submit our English invoice to your insurer yourself. Depending on your policy, employer-provided or international insurance often covers physiotherapy and acupuncture in full. Please check with your insurer.
How much does a session cost?
Rates vary by treatment type and duration. Please contact us or call us directly for current pricing. We always discuss costs transparently before starting treatment.
Practical Information
Where are you located?
We are located at Arent Janszoon Ernststraat 665A, 1082 LG Amsterdam — in Amsterdam Zuid, beside Gelderlandplein and easily accessible by tram, bus, and bike.
Do you speak English?
Yes — we are fully English-speaking. Care is also available in Dutch and Japanese. We regularly treat patients from Amsterdam’s international community. Read more about our expat-friendly care.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book online via our booking page, or call us at +31 6 40066580. We typically have appointments available within a few days.
Book Your Appointment in Amsterdam
Ready to get started? We’d love to help you feel better. Book online or call us at +31 6 40066580.
You can also explore our treatments, learn about physiotherapy or acupuncture in Amsterdam.