The role of First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs) in Primary Care is to assess patients with soft tissue, muscle and joint pain and to decide on the most appropriate management pathway. FCPs are physiotherapists with expertise in the assessment and management of Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. They may also be known as Advanced Practice Physiotherapists (APP) or MSK Practitioners.
INCLUSION CRITERIA
- All soft tissue injuries, sprains, strains or sports injuries
- Arthritis- any joint
- Possible problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons or bone, 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
- Post -orthopaedic surgery
EXCLUSION CTITERIA
- Acutely unwell
- Children under 16yrs
- Medical management of rheumatoid conditions
- Womens health, antenatal and postnatal problems
- House-bound patients
- Medication reviews for non-MSK conditions
- Neurological and respiratory conditions
- Headaches
- Acute mental health crises
- Patients who do not wish to see a FCP
