Physiotherapy can by helpful for a number of problems. A physiotherapist is a skilled therapist who can help to assess and diagnose the problem you are having. Following your assessment, the physiotherapist may recommend some exercises, or they might suggest arranging further investigations or assessments if exercises alone are not likely to fully resolve your problem.

There are two main NHS physiotherapy services we can help you to access;

First Contact physiotherapy / practitioner

For patients aged 16 and over. Quayside Medical Practice has two First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs). You can book a appointment to see an FCP by calling reception. FCPs are experts in seeing patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) problems.  You do not need to be referred by a GP, and so it is often quicker to see an FCP directly rather than waiting to see a GP first. The FCP will see you for an initial assessment of your problem and to give you a treatment plan. They work closely with the GPs to arrange investigations such as blood tests and Xrays if these are required. If you are likely to need longer term physiotherapy follow up they can direct you to this.  The waiting time to see our FCPs is usually very short, and you can normally book an appointment within 1-2 weeks. Further information about seeing an FCP  

MSK Community Physiotherapy

For patients aged 16 and over. You can do a Self-referral to Community Physiotherapy by clicking the link. Like the FCPs, these physiotherapists are also experts in seeing patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) problems. The waiting list to see them is usually longer than it is to see an FCP. However the community physiotherapists can follow you up over a period of time if this is required.

You can do an online self-referral or call them on 0300 131 5225 (option 2)

Further details about the physiotherapy service and self care advice

 

 

Other Helpful Resources

 

First Contact Practioner	More information about the role of an FCP, and how they can help you
Back Pain	NHS advice and information on back pain, including some simple exercises you can do at home
Excercise sheets for common conditions	Including Ankle Sprains, Back pain, Knee Pain, Neck Pain, Osteoarthritis and Plantar Fasciitis.
Strength Exercises	Strength exercises that can be done at home to improve your health and mobility.
Physical activity guidelines for adults aged 19 to 64	Physical activity guidline to promote cardiovascular heath and muscle strenthening . Also suitable for adults with a disability, pregnant women and new mothers
Physical activity guidelines for older adults	Physical activity guidline to promote cardiovascular heath and muscle strenthening which can help to improve your balance and help you to maintain your independance.
Fitness advice for wheelchair users	Ideas and advice on keeping physically active for wheelchair users
Pelvic Health	Information, advice and self referral for men and women with Pelvic floor problems