If you have a musculoskeletal issue, such as back or neck or joint pain, you can see a physiotherapist at a GP Practice.
Our Physiotherapists will assess you remotely or in person, provide you with appropriate exercises and self-management advice and, if needed, make onward referrals in the same way your GP would.
This means that you do not need to see your GP for musculoskeletal issues. You can book in with our Physiotherapists directly via your GP practice’s reception team.
Who is the service suitable for?
- People aged 16 or over
- All muscle injuries, sprains, strains or sports injuries
- Possible problems with ligaments, tendons or bone – e.g., tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome
- Back pain
- Back related pain in arms or legs, including nerve symptoms – e.g., pins and needles or numbness
- There are some other medical criteria which will be checked when you contact your GP practice
This service is not suitable for:
- People under 16 years old
- If you are unwell – e.g., have a high temperature,
- Antenatal and postnatal problems
- There are some other medical criteria which will be checked when you contact your GP practice
How can I make an appointment?
Contact your GP Practice and ask for an appointment with the First Contact Physiotherapists. There are appointments available same day and booked ahead. When you contact your GP Practice, the receptionist will ask you some questions to check that you meet the criteria for the service. You will first be booked for a telephone appointment to carry out an initial assessment, some advice will be provided and you will then either be invited for a face to face appointment or a referral will be made directly to hospital musculoskeletal services for you.
Remember, you do not need to see your GP for this service.
Where can I see a First Contact Physiotherapist?
This service is available to patients registered at:
- Fairfield Surgery
- Ferry Road Surgery
- Martins Oak Surgery
- Northiam Surgery
- Oldwood Surgery
- Rye Medical Centre
- Sedlescombe and Westfield Surgery
You may be invited to attend a face to face appointment at your own practice, or at one of the other practices above if that suits you.
Self Help
There are a range of self-help resources available which you may find useful. The The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy has useful self-help information for managing your pain at home
