First Contact Physiotherapists

You can book an appointment directly with an experienced physiotherapist via your GP practice reception which means you won't need to wait for an appointment or referral from a GP.

This means you can get better and quicker care, while GP appointments can be freed up for patients with other conditions.

You may be eligible for an appointment with a physiotherapist if you have new symptoms of the following problems:

• all soft tissue injuries, sprains or sports injuries
• arthritis - any joint
• possible problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons, or bones, e.g. 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, e.g. pins and needles or numbness
• changes to walking
• post-orthopaedic surgery

The physiotherapist will:

• assess you and diagnose what's happening
• give expert advice on how best to manage your condition
• arrange further investigations or refer you on to specialist services if necessary

To access a first contact physiotherapist, contact the reception team of your GP practice.