Physiotherapists

We are pleased to have Heather and Huw as our First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs) in the Primary Care Network (PCN). Our First Contact Physiotherapists are musculoskeletal practitioners with enhanced assessment skills. They can help patients with new problems like back pain and knee sprains, as well as more complex issues such as nerve pain and poor mobility. 

What are we good at?

Our team of musculoskeletal practitioners are experts in:

• Assessing and diagnosing issues with joints, pain and mobility 
• Giving advice on how best to manage conditions, including lifestyle advice and exercises
• Deciding which patients need a course physiotherapy or referral to local leisure centres to work on fitness
• Instigating investigations where required such as Xrays, MRI scans and blood tests, whilst avoiding unnecessary tests
• Organising pain relief medications and injections for pain relief
• Referring onto specialist services such as orthopaedics or neurosurgery, if this is needed

By making it easier for patients to access a musculoskeletal practitioner patients will have quicker access to the right care, at the right time, from the right person. 

What is difference between First contact physiotherapists and other physiotherapists?

The difference between usual Physiotherapy and First Contact Physiotherapists is their skill set in assessment and diagnosis. If a patient requires a course of physiotherapy rehabilitation a patient will be referred on for this.

Why is this helpful?

It is estimated that 10-25% of all GP consultations are for musculoskeletal conditions, and that a FCP could see up to 50% of these patients. An early specialist assessment with advice and intervention based on the best available evidence provided by FCPs can enhance patient recovery and self-management.

Who can we see and with what problems?

• Patients aged 18 or over 
• All soft tissue injuries, sprains, strains or sports injuries
• Minor Trauma (Falls/Sports injuries)
• Postural Pain/Problem
• Arthritis – any joint
• Problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons or bone, eg tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, ankle sprains
• Spinal pain including lower back pain, mid-back pain and neck pain
• Spinal-related pain in arms or legs, including nerve symptoms, eg pins and needles or numbness
• Changes to walking
• Acute flare up of a long-term musculoskeletal condition 

Who can we not see?

• Please don’t book with us if you are already receiving ongoing care from another physiotherapist, osteopath, chiropractor or sports therapist. Please discuss with your GP 
• Patients under 18yrs must consult with their GP. If physiotherapy is required, they can refer to the children’s physiotherapy service

How do I book in?

• Please contact your medical centre/surgery as normal, this may be via telephone, online booking or electronic consultations
• You will need to share a basic outline of your problem so that patient services can help you decide if a First Contact Physiotherapy assessment if best for you

Read the specification for first contact practitioner services for MSK conditions, watch short videos about FCP  Health Education England’s short video series and visit the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy website for more information.