The First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs) are experts in musculoskeletal injuries. These include, injuries to muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones. We assess, diagnose, advise, educate, prescribe exercises, and refer you to the most appropriate professional.
They can help patients with musculoskeletal issues such as back, neck and joint pain by
- assessing and diagnosing issues,
- giving expert advice on how best to manage their conditions
- referring them onto specialist services if necessary.
Low back and neck pain are the greatest cause of years lost to disability in the UK, with chronic joint pain or osteoarthritis affecting more than 8.75 million people. In addition, musculoskeletal conditions also account for 30% of all GP appointments.
Patients with back and joint pain, including conditions such as arthritis, will now be able to contact their local physiotherapist directly, rather than waiting to see a GP or being referred to hospital. Patients can also see a physiotherapist by speaking to the GP practice receptionist or by being referred by their GP. By making it easier for patients to access physiotherapist, patients will have quicker access to diagnosis and treatment, helping them to manage their conditions more effectively and recover faster, so they can get back to normal life quickly. They will help GPs to manage their workload more effectively, and reduce the need for onward referrals.
Will support with;
- Refer you to treatment-based physiotherapy or orthopedics if needed
- Educate and advise on pain management without prescribed medication
- Discuss how to get you exercising or active again
- Get you started on improving those nagging injuries that have been coming and going for month or years
- Assess and diagnose any new or existing injuries
Exclusion Criteria
- See Patients under 16
- See Patients already assessed by GP
- Prescribe pain killers or order MRIs
- Patients recently seen by regular physiotherapists.
- Womens health (antenatal and postnatal problems)
Appointment expectations:
- The first call will be a 10 minute telephone assessment.