First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP) Service

 

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Do you have a Musculoskeletal (MSK) problem?

Physiotherapy - Locations

  • Meanwhile Garden Medical Centre - 5 Elkstone Rd, London W10 5NT
  • Half Penny Steps Health Centre - 427-429 Harrow Rd, London W10 4RE
  • Queen's Park Health Centre -  Dart St, London W10 4LD
  • St Charles' Centre for Health and Wellbeing - Exmoor St, London W10 6DZ

If you need to speak to someone about a MSK problem you can speak to a FCP as an alternative to your GP.

First Contact Physiotherapy Service.

What is an FCP?

FCPs are physiotherapists with enhanced skills. 

They are able to:

  • Assess and diagnose MSK conditions.
  • Provide expert advice on how to manage conditions.
  • Refer for investigations or on to specialist services if necessary.

What are the benefits of the FCP service?

MSK conditions account for approximately 30% of GP appointments. The FCP service allows:

  • Quick access to expert assessment, diagnosis and advice.
  • Helps to prevent short term problems turning into chronic issues.
  • Shortens treatment pathway for patients, with less appointments and shorter wait times.
  • Opportunity to gain lifestyle/physical activity advice.

What can be seen by FCP?

  • All soft tissue injuries, sprains, strains or sports injuries.
  • Arthritis – any joint.
  • Possible problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons or bone, eg 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, eg pins and needles or numbness.
  • Changes to walking.
  • Post-orthopaedic surgery

What cannot be seen by a FCP?

  • Anyone acutely unwell
  • Children under 16.
  • Medical management of rheumatoid conditions.
  • Women’s health, antenatal and postnatal problems.
  • House-bound patients.
  • Anyone requiring a medication review.
  • Neurological and respiratory conditions.
  • Acute mental health crises.

What to expect?

A brief history of the problem will be taken and some clinical tests performed.  This allows the FCP to assess the problem and identify what is required to maximise recovery.

Most MSK problems only require advice and exercise guidance to self-manage the condition.  However, if symptoms persist other treatment options can be discussed.

This service does not provide physiotherapy treatment – if this is required the FCP will refer to the hospital physiotherapy department.

How do I book?

Please call practice on 020 8962 8700 and ask receptionist to book an appointment directly for you.