If you have a muscle, joint, or bone problem (often called a musculoskeletal condition), you don’t always need to see a GP first. Instead, you can book directly with our First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP).
What to Expect in an FCP Appointment
During your appointment, the FCP will:
- Assess and diagnose your condition
- Provide first-line management and self-care advice
- Talk through options such as physical activity, fitness for work, or social prescribing
- Refer you for a course of physiotherapy treatment if it is clinically appropriate
Please note: FCPs do not provide a full course of physiotherapy themselves – their role is to give you expert assessment, advice, and the right next steps.
Who Can Use This Service?
- Patients aged 18 and over
- Anyone registered with a PCN GP practice who has a musculoskeletal condition (e.g. back pain, sprains, joint stiffness, or muscle problems)
How to Access the Service
It’s simple to book in, just ask at your GP reception – just say you have a muscle, joint, or bone problem
Why This Matters to You
Seeing an FCP means:
- Faster access to the right professional for muscle and joint issues
- Expert advice without always needing a GP appointment
- Early management to help prevent problems from getting worse
- Clear next steps if you need more treatment or referral